Career
Why Bartending in Chicago?
Bartending in Chicago offers excitement, challenge and great pay — one of the most recession-proof careers you can choose.
Career
Bartending in Chicago offers excitement, challenge and great pay — one of the most recession-proof careers you can choose.
Bars are always busy. People enjoy the bar atmosphere when they are celebrating good times, or to lift their spirits during the bad times. With this in mind, bartending has been referred to as a "recession-proof" career.
A career in bartending offers so many choices — so many built-in benefits — that hundreds of people are giving up traditional careers, or augmenting their income with part-time bartending work.
Chicago is the birthplace of some of America's most influential bar culture — from the jazz-club cocktails of the 1920s to the craft bartending revolution that transformed River North and Logan Square into destinations for national cocktail tourists.
Reasons to Choose Bartending
01
History has proven that bars maintain their business levels and many actually increase during tough economic times. This is an excellent time to enter the field of bartending.
02
Professional bartenders are always in demand. Many larger bars and restaurants offer full benefits; bartenders working for major hotels or airlines often receive additional perks.
In addition, many larger bars and restaurants offer full benefits for employees, and bartenders working for major hotels or airlines often receive additional perks like greatly reduced lodging and air fare.
A bartending career allows people the freedom to choose a work environment that matches their personality. A good bartender can work anywhere in the country, or in the world.
Chicago — Bartending Career Outlook
Chicago is the birthplace of some of America's most influential bar culture — from the jazz-club cocktails of the 1920s to the craft bartending revolution that transformed River North and Logan Square into destinations for national cocktail tourists.
Our program trains you for Chicago's full spectrum: from the high-volume Cubs and Bears game-day crush to the meticulous craft cocktail programs at nationally recognized bars. You'll graduate certified, skilled, and connected to Chicago's hiring network.
5,800+
Licensed Bars in Chicagoland
$58K
Avg Bartender Annual Earnings in Chicago
Top 5
US City for Craft Cocktail Bar Awards
Serving Chicago & Surrounding Areas
Start Your Career
Some bartenders prefer the hotel or country club environment, while others enjoy neighborhood bars or the excitement of nightclubs. Whatever your preference, bartending can offer fun and profitable surroundings.
