At a Glance
- Tasks: Mix cocktails, serve drinks, and keep the bar buzzing with energy.
- Company: Join The Blues Kitchen, a vibrant venue known for live music and great hospitality.
- Benefits: Earn competitive pay, enjoy discounts, and access exciting events.
- Other info: Relaxed dress code and opportunities for career growth and recognition.
- Why this job: Be part of a lively atmosphere and showcase your bartending skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in busy bars and a passion for making classic cocktails.
We’re looking for a Bartender to join the team at The Blues Kitchen London. The award-winning Blues Kitchen is one of London’s most iconic venues, where live blues, soul and funk fill the room and great hospitality sits at the centre of everything we do. With a stunning Southern-inspired interior, an all-American food menu and a bar known for its cocktails and whisky selection, The Blues Kitchen has built a reputation as one of the city’s most loved places to eat, drink and experience live music. It’s a busy, high-energy venue where the bar sits right at the centre of the action. We’re looking for warm, charismatic bartenders who can deliver great drinks while keeping the atmosphere lively and welcoming.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Preparing cocktails, pouring drinks and maintaining high standards behind the bar.
- Making classic cocktails confidently and consistently during busy service.
- Delivering friendly and efficient service to guests.
- Keeping the bar stocked, organised and ready for service.
- Working closely with the bar and floor teams to keep service flowing.
What We’re Looking For
- Experience working behind a busy bar or cocktail bar.
- Confidence making classic cocktails.
- Someone warm, charismatic and great with people.
- Comfort working in a fast-paced bar environment.
- Strong teamwork and communication.
What to Expect
- Competitive pay: £12.75 per hour plus tronc (total package usually between £12.75–£16.50 per hour). Hourly wages paid every two weeks on a Friday and tronc paid on the last Friday of the month.
- A lively working environment across restaurant, bar and music venue.
- A relaxed dress code. No uniforms. Just bring your best self.
Why You’ll Love Working With Us
- 50% off across all Columbo venues, plus free access to our events and festivals.
- Training and development through the Columbo Academy.
- Hero of the Month recognition, including a paid weekend off.
- £50 voucher for top drinks seller incentives.
- Employee referral bonuses of £1,000 for Chef or Manager roles and £250 for hourly roles.
- Opportunities for global industry trips for top performers.
- Pension scheme via Nest.
Bartender employer: The Blues Kitchen
The Blues Kitchen London is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and dynamic work environment where great hospitality and live music come together. Employees enjoy competitive pay, generous discounts across all venues, and unique opportunities for personal growth through the Columbo Academy, making it an ideal place for those passionate about bartending and customer service. With a relaxed dress code and recognition programs like Hero of the Month, The Blues Kitchen fosters a supportive culture that values teamwork and individual contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Bartender
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like The Blues Kitchen. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to The Blues Kitchen
Don't be shy about reaching out to The Blues Kitchen directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Bartender
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about The Blues Kitchen and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Blues Kitchen
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
