A skilled bartender who can entertain guests in a creative and interesting manner while mixing their drinks is said to be bartending with flair. Considered to be a specialized art form or service, flair bartending involves being able to juggle the likes of cocktail shakers and liquor bottles in a manner that is highly entertaining to those that are watching. In addition, the speed of service and quality of drink is nothing short of amazing.
Becoming popular in the 1990’s following the release of movies such as Cocktail and Coyote Ugly, flair bartending can best be described as any trick used by a bartender in order to entertain guests while mixing and serving drinks at the same time. The flipping of liquor bottles or the juggling of cocktail shakers are just two of the many techniques that flair bartenders use. Some of the more experienced ones can also do bar magic which involves performing close up magic tricks. At the end of the day, the main goal of this service is to provide unique entertainment while mixing drinks, and in so doing, adding value to a patron's drinking or dining experience. While he may not have been the first bartender, the legendary Jerry Thomas (nicknamed - "The Professor") was, as early records suggest, the first barman who can lay claim to the title of "the first flair bartender." Because of an experiment conducted by Thomas during the mid 1800's, during which he mixed boiling hot streams of water with Scotch whiskey, the original cocktail, the "Blue Blazer" was born. It went on to become extremely popular around the world at the time.
Nowadays, bartenders with flair are very much in demand by reputable hotel chains, clubs, restaurants and event planners. Furthermore, film stars and other celebrities often hire them, as a special feature at their private parties. Moreover, marketers and venue owners have found this specialized service to be extremely effective for the advertising or launching of a new liquor brand, or even a new bar or pub. On several occasions, top liquor distilleries have sponsored flair bartending competitions and have gained significant advertising mileage, in terms of exposure for their brands. Today, several catering colleges, hotel management institutes and other catering institutions offer extensive courses in flair styles and techniques.
Why not try out a flair bartending bar today? The next time you are looking for a new bar, why not choose one that offers flair bartenders. Along with a simulating cocktail or one of your other favorite drinks to tickle your taste buds, you will also enjoy a special treat for the eyes as well. Who would not enjoy free entertainment with their mixed drink?