Bartender.ie

What is flairtending?

Flair bartending, flairing or flairtending, they all mean the same thing, is bartending with a show. Flairtending is the practice of bartenders entertaining guests, clientele or audiences with the manipulation of bar tools (e.g. cocktail shakers) and bottles in tricky, dazzling ways.

Flairtending is loosely definable as any 'trick' or manipulation performed with the equipment or ingredients in the course of making a drink. Flair tricks can range from simply throwing an ice cube in the air and catching it in a glass to juggling several bottles of spirits/liqueurs. Thousands of people across the world practice flairing, both as professional bar staff and as a hobby. Although it is mainly seen in cocktail bars or 'flair bars', some staff in regular bars learn to flair to add a bit of entertainment for the customer. Flair can be split up into working flair and exhibition flair, with the key factor being that working flair must be low-risk and provide quick customer service when working. Exhibition flairing involves attempting highly technical and difficult manipulations that are intended to showcase the performer's skills. But in most peoples opinion, the result should always be a palatable drink.

The BAI welcomes flair bartenders working in Ireland to become members of the BAI. If you're interested in participating in flair competitions, please email us today. Email address below.