Flair bartending guide

Flair bartending combines classic bartending with technique, precision and performance. It can range from small, functional movements during service to more advanced routines for shows and competitions.

Working flair and exhibition flair

Flair is commonly divided into two forms:

• Working flair – controlled tricks and movements that can be used during normal bar service.
• Exhibition flair – more advanced routines and tricks used mainly for shows and competitions.

Both require practice, control and a strong focus on safety.

How to get started

Start with simple movements and practise them slowly before increasing speed and difficulty. A practice bottle is useful for developing technique and grip without starting with ordinary glass bottles.

See our flair practice bottle and bar equipment.

Equipment for flair practice

• Flair practice bottles
• Shaker tins
• Pourers
• Bar mats and other standard bar equipment

The best setup depends on whether you are practising working flair, exhibition flair or functional movements for service.

Competitions and development

Flair bartending has an international competition and training community. Current competitions, training groups and organisations can be useful places to find inspiration, rules and contact with other flair bartenders.

The World Flair Association works with structured development of practical bartending and flair skills, and competition rules continue to distinguish between working flair and exhibition flair.

Practise safely

Practise with plenty of distance from guests, colleagues, glassware and fixtures. New tricks should be trained in a controlled way and preferably with practice equipment until the movements are consistent.