I just moved to San Diego and had every intention of becoming a bartender before I got here. I accidentally stumbled across Nino's program, and I'm glad I did. Before signing up, I called with a lot of questions because I was cautious about spending money on a program I had just found, especially while being on a tight budget. Nino took the time to answer everything and never made me feel rushed. I took the risk, and I'm glad I did. In just six class days, you learn everything from the basics to making multiple drinks at once. You really do have to study. Memorizing drinks and then physically making them was exactly what I needed to build confidence behind the bar. They value your time, and you should value theirs. I also enjoyed meeting new people who were all there for the same reason--to learn and get into the industry. Joe is great. He has a lot of straightforward insight and gives you plenty of tips to help recipes stick in your memory. Just get there early because he likes to take up two parking spots. (Inside Joke) The job placement isn't them handing you a job. It's Nino helping you stand out and giving you the tools, knowledge, and confidence to land the job you're looking for. He also has connections with event staffing companies, which gives you opportunities to bartend events, get your feet wet, and gain experience in a fun environment. With 24 years in the industry, there's really no question Nino can't answer. I'm grateful I found this school and happy to have made new friends in the industry while building my confidence behind the bar. Highly recommend it to anyone looking to get started in bartending. read more

I just finished the program at Gaslamp Bartending School and honestly it was one of the best investments I've made. I came in with zero experience in the bartending industry, and by the end of the course I feel fully confident walking into a bar and pursuing bartender jobs in San Diego. If you're looking for a bartending school in San Diego or trying to figure out how to become a bartender, this place is legit. The owner and lead instructor Nino is a true professional and a real subject matter expert when it comes to bartending and the hospitality industry. He teaches more than just recipes, he teaches how the bar industry actually works, how to move behind the bar, how to interact with customers, and what employers look for when hiring bartenders. Joe is also an excellent instructor. He's extremely technical and really helps you dial in the craft - he's a great example of a great bartending personality. One thing I'll say: show up to every class ready to learn. There is a lot of information packed into each session, and if you miss a class it can definitely set you back. The value you get for the price is honestly incredible. The course covers: * Bartending fundamentals * Drink recipes and mixology * Bar techniques and speed * Customer service behind the bar * Industry knowledge * Bartender job placement support I chose the school + staffing support package, and they actively help connect graduates with bartender jobs and opportunities in San Diego. If you're searching for: * Bartending classes in San Diego * Bartender training near me * How to become a bartender in San Diego * Best bartending school in San Diego This is absolutely worth it. Huge thanks to Nino and Joe for sharing their knowledge and helping new bartenders get started in the industry. I just finished the program this week and am now starting my job search. I'll definitely be coming back to leave another review once I land my first bartending job. Highly recommend!! read more

Gaslamp Bartending School - Wall of signatures from all the graduates of the school. - Bartending Schools Near Me - San Diego, California

Nino & Joe are both bartending professionals who will not only take your bartending skills and confidence behind the bar to the next level but also your customer service and industry knowledge as well. I would highly recommend this bartending school to any of my friends!! 10/10! also thanks Nino for helping me land a job in the industry like a week after I graduated!! Best school & they actually care of their students!! read more

This class isn't just about learning the basics about how to make a few cocktails. It's waaay more than that - a comprehensive course that gives you basic bartending training, but also touches on things like the history of various liquors, bar setup, POS system training, resume construction, interview prep, and all sorts of other skills, techniques, and other info that will put you ahead of many other new bartenders entering the workforce. This class wasn't a cake-walk though - you've got to put in the time, do the homework, study, make notecards, and whatever you need to do to make sure you're ready for the final behind-the-bar exam. Other people I know who have taken other bartending classes were shocked by how much more I was learning in my class versus ones they had taken. And if you get sick or have to miss a class or a week of class or if you happen to not pass the final behind-the-bar exam or whatever, Nino does a great job of working with you to reschedule you and do what it takes to make sure you pass - I saw it happen with a few people other people while I was taking the course. I chose this class/company over other options in San Diego for a number of reasons: 1) Nino, the owner and an instructor, is a real bartender that knows what he's doing and has the accolades to back up what he's teaching. He's the real-deal. 2) The class provides basic POS system training... no other class in the San Diego area offered that. 3) The class offered a two week course, a one-week course, and also offered various class block times throughout the day to fit my schedule. 4) The school also acts as a job placement service and can help get you hired. Nino hires for a lot of bars in the area. Our class spent a lot of time with another real-bartender instructor, Joe, who did a fantastic job of teaching the skills we needed to know to pass the class. He worked with us both as a group and individually to ensure no one person was left behind and everyone was up to speed, and he gave us the confidence needed to pass the final exam. He was also there for guidance during our live service training at a local bar... which was a fantastic, real-world experience. Thanks Joe! I definitely recommend this class because it gives you a fantastic foundation once you get behind a real bar. Thanks Nino! read more

Gaslamp Bartending School - Live service training at a real bar - Bartending Schools Near Me - San Diego, California

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I can't say enough great things about Gaslamp Bartending School! Nino and Joe are Absolutely amazing teachers. This program didn't just teach me bartending--it taught me the power of confidence and self-belief. Thirteen years ago, I worked as a bartender in a high-volume club, and when I considered going back to bartending school, everyone told me I didn't need it. But let me tell you--I'm so glad I did! I learned so much that I didn't know before, from advanced techniques to industry secrets that make all the difference behind the bar. Now, I feel fully equipped with the skills and knowledge to walk into any establishment and land a job with confidence. If you're on the fence about taking this course, do it! It's 100% worth the investment in yourself. read more

I was considering starting to bartend but really wanted a good understanding going forward on the job. I decided to take a two-week course at Gaslamp Bartending school. Nino did most of the in class work which was helpful and as I always do, I took lots of notes. Joe was our instructor in the bar training area and he was absolutely incredible. I loved getting to learn from him, and there were some recipes I couldn't seem to get memorized. Joe helped me figure out ways to remember them, and gave me the confidence to put my book away and trust in myself. What was even more incredible was Joe's patience with not just me but everyone in the class. He gave us all real world knowledge that I found very important and practical. When we did the Live Service Training I was definitely a little nervous, however we were lucky enough to have Joe with us. He was awesome and made me and others feel very comfortable considering it was an insane evening of patrons ordering drinks. I feel ready to go out there and get a job, knowing that I have been trained by the best. If you are lucky enough to get Joe, he literally goes above and beyond to give you the tools to succeed not just in bartending but his advice transcends into all areas of life. Amazing energy, you can tell he really cares about your success. Thank you Joe!!! Thank you for everything GBS, I am ready to take on the bartending scene with confidence, I have my first bartender interview Friday and I'm pumped. read more

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The best experience ever. Definitely study if you don't apply yourself you won't be able to learn. This is something you have to want to do in order to pass. Nino is true to his word. Everyone was helpful during the process including Joe I look forward to being part of their agency. read more

I went into bartending school without experience and 0 confidence to be behind a bar. after taking the course with Nino and joe I felt I learned way more than expected!! Only a week after passing my exam I get hired on the spot!! 100% recommend!! read more

I thoroughly enjoyed this class. Nino was always on time and ready to get us started on how to make drinks. He provided us with a mini bartending Bible which I really appreciated because it was easy to follow and memorize. I am a newbie to bartending and I didn't expect the class to be engaging and fun! I learned so much in a week that it was money well spent. Joe was also an awesome laid back bartender. When I attended the live service he was patient and helpful and taught me some tricks. Overall, my favorite part is how patient they are and when they gave us the random ticket drinks to make and them doing a mini competition which we all passed! =) CLASS WAS VERY ORGANIZED & the pace it was taught at was the RIGHT AMOUNT. Good vibes money well spent! Would take again. Lol. :) read more

This is a very practical course with hands on training, not only in mixing drinks, but in other important concepts like etiquette, selling and upselling. The teachers have real life experience and share tons of tips and tricks. Professor Joe is a teacher at heart and cares about the student's progress - like the best of my college professors who cared most about learning. The owner and Professor Nino makes certain you take care of the details so that you can build your own brand through success. Now I'm off to transition from the corporate world into hospitality and I appreciate the training and advice given. Thanks! read more

Gaslamp Bartending School - Gaslamp Bartending School... simulating real bartending experience - Bartending Schools Near Me - San Diego, California

I'm giving GBS a one star for the lack of communication and professionalism. I was looking forward to taking this class and starting something new. I told my friend about it and we signed up together. For someone like myself the workshop was a good amount of money TO ME. I figured that since the description said job placement and membership to the staffing agency an interview would be provided at the least. After the class portion was done and the test was completed we we're supposed to do a live training session at a location that Nino sets up with an establishment. It's been three weeks now and we still have not done live training and he has not communicated anything to us. I emailed him asking for a partial refund and he has yet to respond. If you have time and money to waste take the class. If you're someone who is thinking about taking a risk and spending this amount of money on a class please don't. Save your money. read more

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In my 20s I have always wondered what it would be like to work as a bartending. That's when I started to be an enthusiast with looking up different cocktails and trying them at speakeasy's. I also kept an eye on the bartender because it looks like such a fun job! Although I had never been much of a drinker I learned that once you find your spirit then that's where the fun is! I'm in my dirty 30s now and have always worked a corporate job - after getting laid off and desperately looking for a job I stumbled upon Gaslamp Bartending School when searching for a job on Craigslist. I also got the 2 week course on sale which was a steal - I am so grateful I took the leap of faith because I learned so much in this class. A lot of my curiosity about different types of liquors were answered; best of all - I have met some cool new friends in this class who I can share and experience this life together! The instructors for this course were exactly what I needed, I don't know if anyone else could have taught it better. Eli made learning all the drinks super simple and easy to make as long as you study and put in the work there's no way that this could fail. I truly believe this is an investment and highly recommend GBS to anyone who has ever been curious! I know everyone has their own niche in where they end up working and tbh even if I don't get a job this course was worth every penny. Let the good times begin - thanks gbs! read more

I learned so much more than I thought I would in the class. Everyone in our class passed simply because Nino made sure to work with each of us on areas we struggled in. I had an amazing time over the last 2 weeks here! read more

Awesome experience and I'm glad I did it. I got the opportunity to actually bartend at two different bars which was a super valuable experience and something I could put on a resume. The instructors were awesome and the amount of information and cocktails we learned was super valuable. Highly recommend! read more

Gaslamp Bartending School - Real bartending opportunity provided by the class. - Bartending Schools Near Me - San Diego, California

Boy was this class one hell of a ride. I went with the crash course (1 week) but if you got the time I recommend the 2 week course. Fortunately, my class wasn't as full as the others so I was able to grasp pretty much everything. The key is practice, positive can do attitude and study study study! Don't be shy to ask questions they are more than willing to help you. If you feel you didn't get the hang of it they welcome you to join in on the other classes at no extra charge! Nino did a great job motivating you to pick it up. Eric has a softer approach with teaching which made for a perfect combo. I found this class on a google hunt for Bartending school once I earned the position to be GM for a bar restaurant coffee shop we were building out. The only experience I had was beertending and managing a pizza and beer bar. The sign up, location and hours were easy and convenient for me compared to what else was out there. & they just opened a second location! I was looking to gain the knowledge of common cocktails and confidence in making them and I gotta tell ya I got more bang for my buck. I also learned how to set up my well station and entire behind bar so it ran smoothly, helped me create the drink menu, organize my POS system, breaking down the bar, setting up opening and closing duties for future staff, proper communication for flow, taught me how to properly train my staff so they pick up on it like I did, learned about good and bad bad habits and what to look for and how to be the right candidate. I can't tell you enough how worth it it all was. I came into this class clouded and overwhelmed with personal job responsibilities and left with a clear, organized mind set, motivated and confident. Heck, they even promoted me and my bar on their social media which was super sweet. A couple months later, I was also invited to do a Bartending industry night at El Chingon! Which is one of the hottest busy spots in downtown San Diego. I was there with other previous classmates some that had just finished the class a week ago with a job working at a bar already! We earned tips that night & were treated with bottle service! Nino and Eric really do care about each student succeeding. They make sure your resume is set up to appeal the industry in which they have a large network of connections that will help you get going on your Bartending career. That night I met classmates that I would hire myself! That's a big deal to chose someone to be the face of your business and a lot has to do with the training you get at Gaslamp Bartending School. There's others out there but I suggest you choose wisely.. choose GBS! Writing this while on the treadmill at the gym.. gotta run! read more

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I regret paying $300 and inviting my friend to take this class with me. I didn't consider that I would be a victim of hate. I thought this would be a fun place to learn how to bartend with my friend- it turns out that it's not. I've been trying to contact Nino to get my money back and he has not returned my calls or emails. All I'm asking for is $75 back; because, I no longer want to continue with the program. I wanted to walk out the first day. The only reason I stuck it out for as long as I did was because my friend enrolled with me and the fact that Nino wasn't the only instructor. The whole program isn't bad. I just can't stand Ninos unprofessionalism. From what he's triggered, I've gathered that he is a racist and does not like Tequila. How can you host Mexican events and not like Tequila dude? Why is my race or anyone's race important for you to know the first day of class? He wouldn't even let me charge my phone - str8 out discharged it and handed it to me. He also felt it was necessary to be militant with me and not the rest of the class. He even started slandering me on Facebook. That other instructor was Eric. Eric is professional. He focused on the class lesson and everyone's techniques. He held good conversations about history and drinks with class, while demonstrating how to make drinks. He was even kind enough to offer water. My advice is, get your food handlers card and your lead card before you consider GBS or a bartending job; according to GBS you can't bartend without them. Unlike GBS there are other programs in San Diego that help you get them while you're in their program. If anyone wants a copy of the GBS study book you can find me on Facebook. I can send it to you via pdf for free. That way you have a better chance of memorizing all the drink recipes that you are "required" to know for a job interview. If you've ever worked in fast-food place or a restaurant, you already have POS experience and don't really need to sweat it. Call around and ask what it takes to be a bartender at the location you are interested in working at. From my knowledge, his "certificate" only gives you a bar-back position. He is now claiming he doesn't give refunds, even for classes you do not take, so really consider what you're getting yourself into. To answer Ninos comment: I have copies of what you posted on Facebook before you blocked me and deleted my review. And you're Italian, you said it a million times the first day of class when you kept going on and on about race. You don't have to be white to be racist and your comments were racist. And you've said multiple times that you didn't like Tequila. Maybe next time you'll watch what you say. What I'm gathering now is that you treat people differently when you think they don't have a voice. Well, nice to meet you, I have a voice. Listen, I picked your school over the others because of the reviews even though they're old. And, I thought practicing at a night club was cool. I regret it. You attempted to slander my name and treat me like a second-class citizen. You keep changing your answer lol I have copies of them. first you apologize and claim that I can always finish the program now you've banned me from being able to complete it. Every time someone rates you one star it's a lie lol omg. Dude, if you're not going to give me what I paid for, I want my money back. You keep disrespecting me. I believe your 5 Star reviews are fake! You are wrong, if you think you can just take $300 from me and run. Learn what harassment is because this adds to my defamation. Writing an honest review is not harassment. read more

Only 4 out of 20 students passed which was disappointing to say the least. And to prove I'm a real student, section 1 of Lesson 1 was "The Bar and Tools of the Trade" which described bar layout, front bar, bar rail, etc. Would not recommend read more

Stop thinking about it and JUST DO IT. It took me months to finally work up the courage to sign up and now that I've finished the classes I really wish I didn't wait so long! Here's some things you should know: -I would recommend the 2 week course for those who are inexperienced and looking to join the industry. -GSB creates a fun learning environment but is also very focused on training people for success. You will learn how to make A LOT of cocktails and will need to memorize them all so be prepared to study if you want to succeed. -Class will sometimes run late (especially if you're in a large class like I was) so plan accordingly if you have a busy schedule because you will not want to miss any class time. Overall, I had a really amazing experience here! I had no bartending knowledge (only restaurant experience) prior to taking these classes but Nino is very patient and extremely thorough in his teaching. I left feeling confident and ready to join the work force. I'm not sure if I will find a job as quickly as his other students did (Nino warned us that the holiday season is slow season for hiring) HOWEVER I am hopeful because I've already found quite a few businesses looking for hire . Whatever you decide, just go for it and see what happens! You won't regret it. read more

5 STARS, no doubt! Thank you Eric, thank you Nino you are awesome!! I didn't have any experience in bartending, liquors, shake... but after I've attended your program now I feel confident!! Thanks for your patience and professionalism! Is amazing how much I have learned with you guys!!! People...Do not miss this school if you want to became a bartender!! Grazie di cuore ! read more

From the start this place set the tone with wanting to produce excellent bartenders. A great environment not only to learn how to make drinks, but also the do's and do not's of being a bartender, and what you'll need for in your tool box to be a great bartender. Nino and Wes are very invested in their students and go above and beyond to ensure success. With out a doubt going to be taking refresher classes and keeping in touch with Nino! GO TO GBS!!!!! read more

10/10 I highly recommend taking bartending classes if you want to make some extra cash! Nino and Eli taught me everything I need to know before getting behind a real bar. I learned history about different liquors , how to upsell, how to work a POS system, and a lot more! The key to pass is to STUDY STUDY STUDY! Do not give up ! Do the homework , take the extra time to practice when it is given. As soon as I passed I got hired and now I'm working behind a real bar and it's going great ! Nino and Eli did a great job on showing me how to keep your bar organized and cleaned before closing! I came into my job with knowledge and experience and had no trouble but slowly learning new techniques! Once you know the basics don't be afraid to take it up a notch and put some razzle dazzle infront of you customers! I promise they love it thank you Nino and Eli you guys are the best ! Thank you for being patient and answering any questions I had , re-demonstrating anything I had trouble with ! Good luck you got this ! read more

I would NOT RECOMMEND this school at all because I was looking for a school that was good, fun with great teacher's plus with it being "rated 5 " which I found after the fact was BS (fake) and I did look at other schools that had great ratings but with "Nino" - the "owner of the basmnt night club/ teacher" had sold me on the 5 's on "Yelp, Facebook, Instagram & Google" plus I can't forget about the "internship" - that he only picks the best students to go and work beside him. To top it off ""the brewery" that no One seen. I made my mission to get to this school on time every day never missed a DAY and payed in FULL. My experience from day 1 was going downhill fast I payed "Nino" $350 full. he doesn't give anyone receipts all cash. "Are you doing your taxes"? When I knew I was having a hard time understanding everything and was notifying him in advance about it he just shoved it off like "you'll get it " and left it with also taking the class out to a night club in the middle of the week - I didn't understand that -just pulling us away from our studies making me still not grasp my studies at all . Here comes the 2nd week and I take care of my grandma and she had gotten very sick and I had to take her into the hospital on the last day of school and had told him ahead of time. Here comes Monday. remember I had already payed in FULL and I leave a message saying I'll see you at school later at 6:30pm I get a response that I couldn't come until later and if I did show my face on Monday I'll have to PAY $175 now tell me does that sound like some BULL... I still have all the texts from him so he can't lie about it. it's not like I didn't tell him about my emergency and 2nd I was telling him about me having a VERY hard time understanding things in Class but instead of being a person of compassion Nino showed me his UGLY, NASTY side of him plus not giving me a refund . So I decided to contact MASTERS OF BARTENDING They said I didn't even had to explain anything and took me in with kindness and open arms plus I didn't have to pay NOTHING! Because they know how Nino is and how he runs "his school" So I would like to THANK Nino for showing Your ASS to not only me but to my better half because I wouldn't had met a great sweet down to earth guy like Arny from Master's of Bartending . He completely understood my issue with Nino but if you really want to be trained property with high respect, fun classes with a great teacher go to Masters of Bartrnding( Which I HIGHLY RECOMMEND if you are looking for a GREAT BARTENDING SCHOOL and More!!) so.... That's just the tip of this crap so hit me up if you had or experiencing the same. read more

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The class was so fun and informative. You can tell the two owners really care about teaching you every angle of the industry and have a lot Of knowledge. I graduated a month ago and already work in a local dive bar as well as a busy nightclub in gaslamp. I have friends who went to other bartending schools in the area and when comparing we realized I got a Lot more skills and information than they did. Would highly recommend to anyone trying to enter the industry read more

Honestly the best. Nino knows his his stuff and makes you feel comfortable and is so patient with each and everyone. Going into this bartending class not knowing a thing and leaving feeling super confident. So glad I took this class. They're super dedicated and you can tell they enjoy it so it makes the class even better. Has answers for all your questions and if he doesn't he'll find it. And it's just a fun class to go to period. If you go to any other school, you're out of your mind lol read more

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Gaslamp Bartending School is the real deal. After extensive research on how to become a bartender, this school stood out, and is one of the best investments I've ever done for myself. The day after I passed the class, I went to my first in person walk in interview for a bar downtown and talked to them in less than 5 minutes and got hired two days later as a bartender! I had no restaurant experience and no bartending experience at all, but I did have 3 years of customer service and leadership experience from college, and I still got the job! And I might get another job too. ALL BECAUSE OF THIS SCHOOL AND NINO AND ERIC! Nino and Eric are real experienced bartenders/managers and know how the industry functions and are the best bartenders! They're really nice, really inspiring, and boosted my confidence behind the bar. They really want to see you succeed and will help you out as much as possible, but you really have to study, focus, and work hard. I studied all day for the two weeks memorizing recipes and how to work the bar and it paid off. Show your commitment, a strong work ethic, and be sociable and you'll be successful. I looked forward to going to class everyday and had so much fun. I didn't realize how fast the time went, I didn't want to leave, I wanted to stay and practice more. The class structure is well organized and the two week class moves fast but if you work hard and study, you'll be fine. The classes are at Basemnt which is great because you can practice with real bar equipment. They also offer a bartending internship at Basemnt nightclub when you pass the class so you can actually have bartending experience, and no other bartending school offers that. You just have to obtain your San Diego Food Handler's Card and LEAD Certificate. I recommend doing this before you start classes or during taking classes because it'll really help you find a job ASAP and be able to guest bartend right away and get a job, like me. Seriously, if you're thinking about bartending at all, or just want to learn how it works, go for it. read more

This school is everything it promises and more! I originally picked this one because all the other school seems outdated and had some bad reviews...I don't regret my decision at all!!!! I am super grateful that I was as picky as I was looking for schools!!...happy with everything and the outcome...all you have to do is show up and actually do the friggin work!!...then the sky is the limit!!! They host student night at local clubs and actually offer hands on experience...they actually help you and give you tips on how to find an actual job also! Nino and Eric are awesome people and offer up every opportunity they can to their students and totally grateful for them! Thanks guys keep doing what you're doing!!!! read more

Coming from a bartender who hates bartending school. This is the exact opposite! This is On The Job Training. I already had experience as a bartender. But being out of the industry for a few years I was a little rusty and had some bad habits. There were a few things that made me decide on this "course" one was the POS system Training. Which for some of us doesn't seem to make a difference because we "already know" but I've personally seen bartenders fail from not being able to ring in drinks effectively. This was the exact course I was looking for and definitely did not waste any time or money! This was exactly what I went through when I was being trained as a bartender on my job when I first started. Hands down AMAZING! read more

I am so glad I chose GPS as my bartending school. I took the 2 week class and I think that was the best amount of time for me to really learn everything and get the experience I needed! This is NOT and easy class so be prepared to study. That being said, Nino is an excellent instructor and is super supportive. He really maps out the industry for you and helps set you up for success! 10/10! read more

This was class was detailed and fast paced! Nino and Eli were great patient teachers, both thorough and patient. I told Nino I am starting to train for sommelier and he let me borrow one of his wine books. When we begin the course the original venue for live training had fallen through, but before the second week Nino had arranged another live training. The class was run professionally and on time. I learned so much so fast! I have a friend who is returning to bartending soon and I recommended she come GBS. After graduating, Nino emailed with a potential interview, which I found so considerate since he has so many students. I definitely feel like i received my moneys worth and am glad I invested this in myself! read more

Is amazing school and have great learning program very well organized and friendly professional ... Great techniques

If I could rate more than 5 stars, I would! Nino and Eric break down the entire industry in two weeks. They go above and beyond to teach you the RIGHT way. During the course they push you to be the best and encourage you to keep trying until you get it right. They genuinely care about the business and want to produce bartenders that are knowledgeable, accurate and efficient. It can be challenging at times and requires studying at home, but you always come back the next day better, smarter and faster than the day before. At the completion of the course they offer guest bartending roles in multiple nightclubs in gaslamp, including Bassmnt and Atomic. I was fortunate to guest bartend at both. Going into a high volume bar in a new environment can be nerve-wracking. Once I started my shift and a few drinks were ordered, I was immediately at ease. I realized I had been fully prepared. The shift had gone exactly as Nino and Eric taught me. Because of their diligence and advice, the drink recipes and techniques become second nature; which allows you to enjoy the best part about bartending-having fun!! If you are interested in bartending at any type of venue, go to GBS. Nino and Eric are the best in the business and I promise there is not a school out there better!!! read more

My friend and I had been considering bartending school for awhile, but I was a little apprehensive since I wasn't sure how much I would learn and if it could really land me a job afterwards. Finally, we decided to give it a shot, so I went out searching for the best bartending school in San Diego. After some research, I came across Gaslamp Bartending School and immediately felt a pull to their branding & mission. Unfortunately, the friend I was signing up with accidentally signed up for the wrong school. (I heard that they run ads listing themselves as Gaslamp Bartending School to get students over to their site). After informing them that we would be going to the other school instead because of the mix up, the owner, Nino was quick to call me directly and helped us fix the issue. We chose the two week course and I can honestly say I feel prepared to go out into the real world of bartending. Nino and Eric have decades of experience in the industry, including connections and experience at almost every major bar/club in the city. They really know their stuff! And having two teachers definitely helps since it gives you different perspectives and tricks on how to make the drinks/manage the bar. You can tell that Nino really cares about his students and is actually trying to use his connections to land us jobs after the course is finished, which is something I find invaluable since most of the industry is about who you know. 10/10 would recommend! If you're looking for a bartending school, you've found the right place. read more

Best money I have spent in a while, hands down! The class is comprehensive and so informative! Yes, you learn drink recipes for all types of drinks and the procedures in how to make them, but you also get all the tips and tricks from guys who have been bartending all over the country for years. You get tons of practice and guidance as you get used to being behind the bar. There is some friendly competition, practice on the POS (point of service) systems, and they show you how to make any drink you can think of so that it's perfect every time. Nino even got me a shift at Atomic Nightclub in the Gaslamp only days after completing the class, and an interview with an up and coming fish house that is opening in downtown as well. These guys do not mess around and they advertise exactly what you are getting. All I want to do is make drinks now and get behind the bar. Nino and Eric are AWESOME, and I can't thank them enough. End of story. Do the class if you think you want to get into bartending, you won't regret it! read more

First off, I recognize and respect Nino and Eric as excellent teachers. They have taken their experiences as career bartenders and have distilled them into an affordable, practical program that deserves momentum. I believe that they have seen and done enough to know what works and what doesn't. In this class, they focused on consistency, time saving techniques, notable customer service, and understanding the value you can bring to the table. I'm sure the seed of this program was in response to witnessing sub-par bar tending habits and they sought out to do something about it. They streamlined their 20+ years of experience in the industry and brought it straightforward. I appreciate how dedicated they are to addressing technique, service, teamwork, accuracy and organization. They break down the information into deliberate sections that serve as solid building blocks. The pace was right on par for the amount of material that was covered. Our class had so much fun during the hands-on practice sessions. We fed off of each other's energy and felt empowered with peer-to-peer constructive criticism and praise rather than feeling like it was a win/lose competition. I highly recommend this program to anyone that would like to add value to themselves in this industry. Throughout the duration of the course, it is clear that Nino and Eric strategically set their students up for success. In addition to the practice of bartending well, they adamantly offer their own network, provide endless resources, and promote enrichment opportunities. Their leadership skills are undoubtedly complemented by patience and authenticity. Honestly, I am sad to depart from the tight-knit group; however it is time to move forward with this knowledge and do it with confidence. Plus, if I ever need anything, I know they have my back. This 2 week intensive course is not only fun, but it is also realistic and specifically tailored towards contemporary trends in San Diego. I am so glad that I chose to spend my time practicing at Gaslamp Bartending School. Furthermore, if these guys need anything, I got their back too, for sure! read more

I'm really glad I took this training, I've learned a lot! Nino is a really good instructor. The training is fun, precise and teach us techniques just what we needed to learn as young bartenders. I would recommend to my friends read more

If you want to learn how to bartend, then I recommend the Gaslamp Bartending School. After just a few classes, you feel as if you belong behind the bar. That is all thanks to Nino! He is extremely patient and will take time to make sure you understand everything. I had a lot of questions about the different types of liquors and he sat down with me and took his time to explain them all to me. Every class is different but he begins the class with reviewing everything that you have learned up to that point. In addition, he puts you through mock trials where he dims the lights down, turns on the music, and makes you feel as if you are serving at a nightclub. Furthermore, he also takes the time to teach you the Point of Sales System (POS) which is amazing because that is the system that most hotels, restaurants, and nightclubs use. At the completion of the course, Nino offers you the opportunity to Guest Bartend at Bassment. He will let you come in and get behind the bar and serve to real people (as long as you have your credentials)! I had the opportunity to do this and it was an amazing experience. He allowed me to have my friends on the guest list and allowed me to bartend for over an hour with him. Even then, he was extremely helpful! read more

If anyone is looking to get top-notch training in the field of bartending, then this school is for you. They offer both day and night course curriculums, so they tailor their hours to their students. Make no mistake, Eric and Nino have designed this class in a manner that will give you more than enough tools and traits to "hit the ground running" even before you complete their course. The class is also outfitted with a full bar with P.O.S. terminals, which will simulate a real-life bar environment. Hands-on training, combined with course work instructions and Mock Service will validate your skill set and give you the edge to get started with bartending right away. Can't thank Eric and Nino enough. Legit and down to earth guys, they genuinely care about the success of every student...and it's more than evident. Keep up the great work guys! Much Mahalos! read more

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As an industry veteran of over 20 years, mostly behind the bar. I will definitely say these guys know there stuff!! On top of that, their interactive concepts are the best I've seen. An actual Bartending School that can help you get jobs!! #nocontest read more

I thought it would be fun to attend the Pre-trial run for GBS. I have no experience bartending so I was interested to see how this would go. Literally everything one needs to become a bartender is right here! Based off of all the research I've done, this is by far the best in San Diego. read more

Nino is the best! What a great idea to learn how to be a bartender inside of an actual bar. Nino was so patient and knowledgeable, and made learning fun! Plus he has great connections! I'm so glad I checked this place out. I feel totally prepared to make any drink now! I definitely recommend this school! read more