Service 10/10!! Loved working with them. I hired them for my birthday party, where I had designed five custom cocktails. The bartender I hired was extremely helpful from setup all the way to cleanup. So many of my friends complimented me on the bartender's drinks, they were absolutely delicious! Although there were a lot of moving parts and guests at my party, the bartender was able to make drinks really quickly and really helped with the atmosphere. She was super knowledgeable about the drinks, arrived early, and wore professional attire. She had all the materials necessary for making drinks, and she was super professional from start to finish. Can't recommend CBA enough for their incredible service and professionalism!Will definitely hire again from them for future events, and it's amazing how all the bartenders are college students too. read more

Had a fantastic experience with the CBA for my birthday party. The website is easy to navigate, and we were matched with Sajan, who was just the nicest and most polite bartender! Communication with him was a breeze, and everything was great. We all wanted to refer him to our various companies at the end of the event LOL! The quoted rates were also the lowest of all options we considered and worked well for us since we already had a list of drinks in mind. Will definitely use again! read more

We wanted to hire a server/bartender for our Super Bowl gathering. Contacted CBA via my Instagram handle and received a response quickly. Followed their instructions and explained our expectations. Communication was smooth & we got our bartender assignment prior to our event. Everything went exactly as planned. Our bartender was professional, punctual and our attendees were impressed. Definitely willing to use CBA for our future events. Thank you. read more

Columbia Bartending Agency - Bartenders Near Me - New York, New York

Amazing Course! Would highly recommend if you want a super detailed, fun experience for learning bartending skills!

I've been wanting to take this Columbia Bartending class for years and was so happy to check their website at just the right time to register. I had no interest in being a bartender, I just wanted to take it for fun. And it was lots of fun. However, if you want to be a bartender, you will definitely learn what you need to know to get a job as a bartender. They are very thorough, and so is the test. :-) The instructors are pros and very helpful, and they have a great sense of humor. So, sign up and have some fun! read more

Marco, the organizer, was very responsive and was a pleasure to work with. He corrected an error I made on the initial inquiry and matched me with Maddie and Brandon within 24 hours. I hired them as servers for 3 hours for a fashion launch event I was hosting at a luxury retail store. They were timely, polite and left the place immaculate. The glasses had to be washed afterwards which they did the last half hour. I would hire them again in a heartbeat. Guests at the event asked for CBA's contact too because they were so impressed at their professionalism. read more

Found out about this from a friend and wish I had known years ago. The bartenders were absolutely perfect; communicated well beforehand, showed up on time, and were so helpful during my party. I couldn't have asked for a better experience. They also created a special "blue baby spritz" for my baby boy shower. Will be working with this group for years to come ! read more

Columbia Bartending Agency - Bartenders Near Me - New York, New York

*I'm writing this review as a student: For the short amount of time (5 weeks), this course offers a tremendous amount of information! I recommend this course for anyone who enjoys alcoholic beverages. If you don't know much about the subject, this will open up your mind to all the possibilities! I took this course because I wanted to get a job on the side and have no bar experience. I highly recommend! There are a lot of drinks to learn so make flash cards and start memorizing right away! The exam isn't difficult if you do that. I like that the class is hands-on and you get to make and taste your own drinks (if you're 21). My only criticism I guess is that I wish the CBA did more to connect non-Columbia students to jobs if you earn it. But I guess that's just wishful thinking if the program seeks to expand. read more

I hired two CBA bartenders for my birthday party in August. They were phenomenal and took the time to make a customized cocktail menu, including a summertime gin punch and a strawberry infused margarita. Highly recommend! read more

Marco and Maddie of CBA were absolutely fantastic. I hired them for my husband's 50th bday cocktails event in October and they helped with the drinks menu and selections, even designed a menu for me. They were professional and friendly and super accommodating. Will definitely use them again. read more

Marco & Estevan are the best. Creative, professional and friendly. The drinks are always tastier and parties always funner when they're allowed to work their magic. read more

I recently used Columbia bartending for a house party- and having Jacob there was the highlight of the night. He was punctual, friendly, knowledgeable, easy going- and his drinks were DELICIOUS. Seriously, better than some i have had at cocktail bars. He kept going even when the crowd got big, and stayed late by 2 hours when we asked. It was an excellent experience, and a bargain for the $18 an hour (plus tip and cab home). I would highly recommend for any event requiring a bartender. The cocktails made the night, for us. read more

I took their course and have to say it was an amazing experience. The instructors were engaging and taught so much more than just how to mix a cocktail. For example, we learned the brewing processes for various types of alcoholic beverages, and even got to take a shot a making our own cocktail recipes. The idea of a final exam was at first scary, but ended up being a rather enjoyable experience with food and costumes. If you're looking to learn how to bartend, definitely give this organization a shot! read more

I hired Adrian for an at-home mixology class/party. He did a wonderful job! He was punctual, knowledgable, intelligent, and managed my very energetic friends well. I was impressed by his professionalism and knowledge of spirits, which he shared with everyone at the party. Additionally, he was extremely helpful in the planning process. He assisted me in creating a menu and even created a shopping list so I knew exactly what to buy and the quantities necessary for the size of my party. This made the whole process less stressful and more enjoyable for me, the host. Overall, I was very pleased with the service he provided. read more

I am writing this review as a student: I am not a Columbia student, and unfortunately this course is totally not suited for anyone over 22 years old. They bill themselves as the only school that uses real alcohol. "We are also the ONLY bartending school in New York to give you the opportunity to mix with real alcohol. We believe that learning to make good drinks with flavored water, the common practice at other bartending schools, is like learning to cook with fake food. It just doesn't make sense! Great bartenders do not simply memorize ingredients, they know what flavors mix well together." Well, I certainly agree with that statement, but if that is not a joke, I don't know what is?!! Then this: "In addition, if you are interested in taking a course for personal knowledge, flavored water wont' teach you very much." That's right flavored water won't teach me very much, neither will just water, which is why the practical part of this class is totally useless, as your site states, "learning to cook with fake food...". This was my biggest issue, they lied. They only use real (crap cheap) alcohol in the last class! I only went to two horrible classes, and when I asked for a refund for only the remaining days I didn't do, they refused! Don't go to this antiquated place to learn how to make drinks with water! There are much better places that teach you professionally with style, good ingredients, and modern techniques. read more

We hired a bartender from this service for a medium size birthday party in our apartment. Kyra arrived on time and was a joy to have. Talking with her beforehand answered a bunch of questions only a bartender could answer - how much ice, mixers, wine, etc. She made a special Blood Orange Margarita that became the hit of the evening. Having a bartender made a huge difference and took a weight off the hosts shoulders. Not having to worry about drinks allowed us to spend time enjoying the party. We wouldn't consider having a party again without a bartender from CBA. read more

I hired a Columbia bartender for my graduation party (^_^), and he was totalllyy awesome! He arrived 15 mins early, was personable, polite, and professional. He refilled hors d'oeuvres, served wine, refilled water, and offered advice at my request. I suspect they know how to mix drinks, but I was only serving wine. He also washed dishes, which comes at an extra fee of $2/hr. Another 2 bucks to not wash my glasses? Heck yeah! The take-in system is pretty straightforward. There's clear, prompt, and attentive customer service. All in all, excellent! Although if you have a party, book at least a week in advance, or there's a special rush rate (which isn't too much more, but why pay when you don't have to). read more

I hired 5 Columbia students (Sylvie, Leanne, Haleigh, Hannah and Michael) from the Columbia Bartending Agency to help me as wait staff and bartenders for my son's engagement party in October, 2021. The students traveled to NJ where we live. I do not have a bad word to say about dealing with CBA or the incredible students that were sent to help. Just thinking about these 5 hard working, helpful, intelligent young people gives me hope for the future. I had excellent communication with Sylvie before the event. All the students were vaccinated, responsibly got PCR tests as I requested, and sent me their results before the party. When they arrived, one helped me print a drink menu to be placed at the bar. Others cut lemons and celery. There was no task ---carrying platters, serving, refilling water glasses, taking drink orders, making drinks, making coffee, cleaning up---that they did not carry out with skill and elegance. I was so proud to present them as part of our party experience. One of the final things I'd like to share is that these 5 terrific students came to work during their midterms. How highly that speaks of their commitment to their jobs. From the bottom of my heart I thank the fabulous and flawless five that came to my home. Thank you CBA. I am telling everybody about you. read more

I have hired several bartender agencies and I must say the Columbia Bartending Agency is the best one in Manhattan. I look forward to working with them again! read more

We've hired bartenders from CBA a couple times now and they are great. Easy to schedule for events through their website, and at a bargain price compared to other wait staff agencies. I'd definitely recommend their bartenders for any event! read more

I hired a bartender for a small party that I had last night. Using the Columbia Bartending Agency has been a great experience for me. From the beginning when I contacted my bartender he was extremely helpful and always very polite in helping me get my bar menu ready. He had e-mailed me a detailed checklist of what alcohol I would need for my Mexican themed party. This made everything so much easier for me. My bartender was amazing! My guests were all so happy. He was so nice and helpful I couldn't have asked for a better person! His drinks were excellent and I highly recommend anyone having a party to use this agency. I know I definitely will again and so will my guests! read more

I have hired over a dozen Columbia bartenders over the last three years for cocktail parties at my home and charity events. I have been pleased with each one. They are all very friendly, professional and knowledgeable. They always arrive 15 minutes early. This is such a wonderful service everyone should know about. It is so easy to reserve a bartender online and you immediately receive a confirmation. read more

Hired 2 bartenders for a wedding and birthday party and they were GREAT! Prompt, responsive, flexible, very affordable, nice to chat to and made great drinks. A fantastic service I recommend to anyone who asks! read more

The service provided was professional and courteous. The office was efficient at finding us a bartender on relatively short notice during holiday time. I would definitely call them again. read more

We had an amazing experience with the Columbia Bartending School. We hired a bartender for our Kentucky Derby Party, and she was amazing. She was very professional, helpful, friendly, and great at tending to the guests. Once we got her set up we really didn't have to worry about anything. She made sure the prepped food was always on the table. We paid the $2/hr for her to help with dishes, which was so worth it. I can't imagine you get better service from one of the really pricey agencies, so I will be using them for all my small events moving forward. A top notch service. read more

First time user of CBA, but certainly not the last! Jared was punctual, organized, used his space creatively and was kind to every guest - adult or child. Jared stayed post the event and cleaned - voluntarily - which, at the end of a long party, was welcomed! I would definitely hire through CBA again ... the party would have not run as smoothly without Jared's help. He really helped the night be a success! read more

I took the 10 hour course at CBA and I feel a different person. It was fun and informative. A friend who manages one of NYC top restaurants gave me the name of two bartending schools and CBA was one. I chose this because the price was very reasonable and it was linked to Columbia University. The course was great, well organized with young instructors who were very skilled and caring in what they taught. Before taking the course I knew how to make/order Gin and Tonic. I was amazed at how much information and practical advice I was given during the course. You will not regret taking this course, and your perspective will change when you look at the drinks menu in restaurants. read more

I've been using CBA regularly since I first discovered them in 2015 and continue to be impressed by the ease, value, and quality of service I receive. Every experience with the good people at CBA has exceeded my expectations. Requesting bartenders is a simple process and the coordinator always answers my queries promptly and thoroughly. All of the bartenders I've worked with have been bright, conscientious, competent ... and interesting. It's been such a pleasure to meet these young men and women and learn where they're from, what they're studying, etc. I look forward to many years ahead working with CBA. read more

I was so lucky to find this agency after searching on the Internet for hours. Booking the appointment was so easy and professional. Once I was assigned my bartender, she called me up and she created a drink menu for my guests. It was a martini party and the drinks were a blast. All the quests were so excited to receive a martini from her. She walked around and brought you a refill if you were llow. She even picked up cups and took care of her garbage. At first I was a bit nervous about having a stranger in my home but it worked out terrific. I will definitely hire again and make my life easier during a party. And you can't beat the rates! read more

I work at one of the largest law firms in the world. My boss used CBA and suggested that we use them for a special event that we were hosting and after I received several way overpriced rates from various mixolgists. Our bartender was super friendly and enthusiastic. He was also on time. You can also have the bartender help out with the dishes for an added cost. They make it super easy to sign up and provide a shopping list on-line so that there isn't any guessing, unless you want to add specialty drinks to your menu, which they are great about helping out with too. I was so happy with the service that I referred them to a friend who used a bartender for her gallery party in Brooklyn a couple of weeks later. Use this service. It is totally worth it!!! read more

The bartender never showed up leaving me to tend bar for 60 people at the memorial for my wife which added distress to a sad occasion

I work at one of the biggest law firms in the world, and we hire bartenders through Columbia for our many, many events. We also use the bartenders as food servers. We used to hire bartenders and servers through our caterers but found that the Columbia students are better and more enthusiastic. Plus they cost less! The Columbia bartenders are very knowledgeable. They are great with handling large crowds and making specialty drinks. They are always extremely professional and seem wise beyond their years. They are also very easy to hire through the online form. I highly recommend them! read more

Madeline was excellent. She was a classic self-starter, assessing what needed to be done and taking care of it. She was thoughtful and knowledgeable, and made herself available before the event to offer guidance. I really appreciated all of her help and would definitely hire her again in the future. read more

Hired 2 bartenders for an apartment party. Booking process was seamless and had great communication from the CBA manager. Bartenders showed up on time and were engaging, inventive, and very efficient. Will definitely use again for my next party! read more

I've used Columbia Bartending for two different private parties now and had an excellent experience both times. The system runs smoothly getting it all set up and the bartenders were terrific. I would definitely recommend. read more

The Columbia Bartending Agency is one of the best bargains in the city. I've hired bartenders from there for years now, and it's always a terrific experience. The students are on time, smart, nice, well-trained and just a pleasure to have around. Don't have a party for more than 10 people without them! Takes all the pressure on you (and I'm a control freak) and lets you kick back and enjoy your own event. read more

I recently used CBA for a luncheon. The bartender showed up on time and was delightful and a self starter. I would definitely use this service again. read more

I'm writing a review as a student for the School of Mixology. I took the 10 hour mixology course over a period of 5 weeks (one class per week, two hours per class). It was 1 hour of lecture - which passed by very, very quickly, was very informative and fun! - and 1 hour of going up to the "bar" and making drinks we were learning that class! I took a single bartending class before this for a few hours, thinking that was all I needed to know, but this class covers a lot more than I expected. You have to memorize ~150? recipes and other safety and alcohol information to ace the exam during your last class (so it's really 4 classes of learning) to get your bartending certificate. The teachers were young and students as well and it was fun be around them and learning from them. It's a really chill class. You have to be 21 to drink your drinks; if you're younger, you can take sips of your drinks. I would definitely suggest taking this class if you're interested in bartending! I went with a huge group and we only had to pay $175, which I believe is pretty cheap for a bartending class. read more

we hired 5 bartenders to help with a benefit. they were awesome! arrived on time, helped with party set up, coat check, manned the front door, helped w/ silent auction and were professional throughout the evening. would hire them again. read more