30+ Years of Bartending Education

About Professional Bartender Training Academy

For over three decades, we’ve been empowering aspiring bartenders with hands-on training and a foundation for success. With 15 locations and over 30 years of teaching experience, we’ve helped thousands of students turn their passion for bartending into rewarding careers. Professional Bartender Training Academy is your path to an exciting new career. Start your journey today!

Reserve Your Spot
Tattooed bartender skillfully pouring cocktails, creating a lively bar atmosphere.
The #1 Bartending School in NY and PA

Our History

As the largest and longest-standing bartending school in New York and Pennsylvania, we’ve built a reputation for excellence.

With over 40 years of experience teaching mixology and managing some of the most renowned bars and restaurants across the country, our senior instructor and founder paves the way to build the expertise and confidence you need, with decades of industry knowledge, experience, and a passion for teaching. Take your bartending career to the next step with skills and confidence honed by in-person, hands-on training.

Since its founding in 1995, Professional Bartender Training Academy has become the largest and most trusted bartending school in New York and Pennsylvania. With locations across both states, we’ve built a legacy rooted in excellence, practical training, and a commitment to helping students succeed in one of the most dynamic industries in the world. What sets us apart is our emphasis on hands-on learning, unlike online programs that rely on videos.

We believe bartending is a craft that must be practiced in a real-world setting, and our program is designed to teach you the skills that matter — techniques, timing, and customer service — ensuring you’re ready to handle everything from crafting complex cocktails to thriving during a Friday night rush. Join the thousands of graduates who have launched their bartending careers with us and discover how Professional Bartender Training Academy can help you unlock your potential.

Vibrant cocktail pour into an ice-filled wine glass by a bartender, highlighting the drink's color and texture.
Cheerful bartender pouring a cocktail with a smile at a lively bar.
Bartender presenting a cocktail in a modern and elegant bar setting.
job placement assistance

We Provide Professional Job Placement Assistance

We are committed to helping our students find successful job placements after they graduate. Our experienced staff works closely with local bars, restaurants, and event venues to connect our graduates with job opportunities that match their skills and interests.

View Class Schedule
Hands-On Training to Launch Your Career

Frequently Asked Questions

We know you have questions, and we’re here to provide clear answers to help you feel confident about starting your bartending journey. From understanding industry requirements to learning what sets our program apart, our FAQ section covers everything you need to know. Discover how our hands-on training, expert instruction, and local connections can give you the skills and confidence to excel in any bar setting.

No, in most states, including New York and Pennsylvania, you do not need a bartending license to work. What you need is hands-on training, the right skills, and confidence behind the bar—all of which our program provides.

Our classes run for three consecutive weeks, with each 4-hour session held on the same day and time each week. This schedule ensures you get ample time to practice, learn, and perfect your skills.

Our program covers everything you need to know to excel as a professional bartender, including mixing techniques, cocktail recipes, speed and efficiency, customer service, and bar management essentials. You’ll also gain practical experience by working with real bar tools and setups.

Yes! We have strong relationships with bars and restaurants in each city we teach in. Many of these establishments give special consideration to our graduates because they know the quality of our training program and the skills our students bring to the table.

Unlike online courses, which rely on videos and theoretical training, our program is entirely hands-on. You’ll learn in-person, practicing techniques in a real-world setting. This practical experience gives you the confidence and skills you need to walk into any bar and excel.

We offer classes in 15 locations across New York and Pennsylvania, including Syracuse, Buffalo, Rochester, Pittsburgh, Erie, and more. Check our upcoming schedule to find a class near you.

Signing up is easy! Visit our “Upcoming Classes” here to find a session near you and reserve your spot. Don’t wait—our classes fill up fast!

Have more questions? Explore the details below or reach out to us directly—we’re here to help!

Get In Touch

or call our toll-free number.