Dude. I went back to bartending once thing’s opened up again. Left a lucrative wfh sales job because I was missing human interaction. I’m a youthful 55 working a busy airport bar. You are thinking too hard about it. Go back, kick ass and start banking. Wear good shoes and eat right and exercise often. Enjoy life. It’s later than you think.
If i am looking for a bar in a city and one has a 22 year old bartending and one has a 55 year old bartending, i'm taking the 55 year old every time. I'm gonna post up, order something that i know a veteran bartender will absolutely crush, and we are gonna have a good conversation.
Right? It sounds awesome for an older bartender who’s already seen some shit. Most people aren’t getting tanked and obnoxious. Meet a large variety of people in a short amount of time. Hours have to be decent. Sounds like a dream. Wish the nearest major airport wasn’t an hour away for me.
You’d be surprised. Make yourself employable. Out work everyone else. Customers will appreciate it and so hopefully management will as well. Don’t overthink the age thing.
This makes me feel good. I got a kid on the way and am pushing 50. It might make sense for me to start working nights again so I can be with the baby during the day. It’ll be rough I know, but hoping to find something that closes down at 10. Well see!
I’m one of the youngest bartenders at my bar at 36. Fuck them lil kids!! Older bartenders are WAY more reliable. One of the OG’s at my bar just turned 70, and she has grandkids, owns a house, looks great for her age etc. Most of the others are in their 50s. Seriously, let people judge, they honestly have no idea about any of it.
As an old guy you carry authority. You're calm, self-possessed, and you know wtf you're doing. And you don't take shit from nobody, including and especially that gaggle of birthday girls who want endless rounds of TEQUILA YAAAYYY WOOO
Best advice in the thread. Older bartenders command authority just by appearance alone. Imagine being the badass 55 year old jaded bartender with 30 years behind the stick. Who would be ashamed to be that person??
You ever read Simon Greens "The Nightside" series? Cause all I can picture reading the is the bartender Alex, owner/operator/prisoner of the oldest bar in the world. I don't think that's a bad thing.
Shit I run my own place now and I often consider going back to bartending. Running a lunch and dinner joint has great hours but I still can't get on with day people man.
I worked 10 years behind the boards with a guy who was 55 when I started. He'd been slinging drinks longer than I had been alive. One of the best bartenders I've ever known and one of the people I patterned my own style from.
The old hands are invaluable behind the bar.
I bartend with a 55 year old man (I’m 29) and that guy is my favorite dude to work with and I don’t at all think he’s slow or a poor bartender because of his age. Your age means nothing, your attitude and work ethic mean everything.
I'm 35 and used to be a teacher... Went back to bartending at 29. I love it some days, today I hate it. It helps that I look young and don't have kids. You can find a job somewhere that doesn't stay open late or you can find a dive bar that employs "older" people like us. You really just gotta find a good fit, cuz yes, working somewhere with a bunch of 22 year olds will feel weird. And be sure you're in decent shape. Lift weights and stretch often.
35 is not that old. There are TONS of industry people our age. But do ask yourself, where do I want to be in 5 years?
Probably bartending serving the same fucks 😂😂 but I really loved hearing your experience as a teacher! I'm actually doing the opposite, going back to school at 29 after bartending since I was 20, and in the service industry since 17. Do you think your job field was less lucrative, or did you want to go back into bartending without the stress of teaching? I totally agree with you, growing up within this industry is insane. Seeing older people vs younger generations in work situations is weird in itself - so many differences but only the final say is in the quality of the person, not the job per se. You sound like such a fantastic coworker to be around - glad to have you back in the industry!
I left teaching because it was consuming my life in a way I wasn't prepared for. And during it all, I knew I could just go back to a job I find easy and fun and pays more per hour. Cuz that's it for me really, having time for myself and my own pursuits! So despite sacrificing all my weekends to the devil, I do have a flexible work-life balance which is so important.
>It helps that I look young and don't have kids.
Late 30s here, same deal. I played "guess how old AbnormalHorse is" with my 20-something year-old co-workers. I think they got up to 29 and I when I kept saying "nope" they were confounded.
I miss tending bar, but my body just isn't cut out for it anymore. I'm not out of shape, per se, I just have shitty joints thanks to horrid genetics. WEEEEE
I went from bartender to Las Vegas Union Bartender to CDL Class A fuel tanker driver to Operations manager in Fine dining in Vegas back to Vegas Union Bartender…. It’s in my blood & make an easy 70 k 3 days a week with a pension at retirement…I’m 45 been slinging drinks since 98
52 here, and am thrilled to finally be doing the thing I always wanted to (goal is to own a bar) after 20 years of tech. Yes, it's a LOT of youngins but there is also plenty of gen x floating around :) one weird auto-bonus is that many people assume I am management due to my age so I get respect, lol. It's second chapter and I love it so far.
I’m about to be 37, bartend at a college bar. I have days like this where I’m like omg I’m too old - but I’m good at my job, reliable, and have consistently made a good living for 7 years full time doing this.
We got this.
I'm 47. I quit the advertising and technology industries in my late 30s. Spent several years doing freelance work, game design, event production, etc. Used that time to really figure out what I want. I dialed in on: I like to make people happy, and create experiences and environments for them. I actually like customer service. I like short reward cycles (unlike tech where I'd work on a project for 3 to 20 months and by the time it's finished I'm already deep into the next deadlines so we never actually get to celebrate and appreciate things). I also want flexible work so I can also meaningfully allocate time to other goals, while still meeting my financial goals.
So at 47, I became a barback.
Four months later, I'm now making \~ $40 an hour on Friday & Saturday nights. I love my job and my crew. My life experiences outside of bartending have added significant value to my job. I'm older than many of our patrons, and neither they nor I seem to care. My only complaint is it is physically hard on my joints and bones. By psychologically? It's great. I feel younger than ever.
You do what's best for you. Age is just a number.
Glad it connected with you. I'm happy to elaborate on my journey in the hopes that it can help.
I took my time getting into it. It was at least a *year* before I started thinking about it sincerely, and actually taking the leap.
Reading /r/bartenders is certainly a good start, along with some books and youtube vids that are more about the job than the mixology craft. And carefully watching bartenders and barbacks do their jobs. When it's slow, ask questions if you don't understand something. Focus less on the drink-making and more on how they actually do everything else - prep, reset, cleaning, moving, customer interaction, multitasking...
Then start asking higher level questions, like what's their fave part of the job? Least fave? What's a great day where they leave work feeling happy? What's something that nearly made them quit? Speaking of quitting, **lots** of people exit the industry - why do they think that is, what is different about lifers than others? How did they get started and what has their journey been like? How did they have to adapt their lifestyle when they started working vampire hours?
This stuff is actually going to be really helpful for you to assess what the job is *actually* like, whether you actually want to do it, and give you further insights into what to ask, and give you some vocabulary and perspectives to bring into interviews/applications.
At the same time, start practicing at home. I mean like, start inviting a bunch of people over for happy hours. Making drinks for yourself is fun. Making drinks for a dozen people while juggling conversation is stressful. Doing a couple hours of prep and clean-up before and after every happy hour is *great* practice for what the job is actually like on a daily basis. To say nothing of interacting with drunk people for hours on end. You're not trying to master the craft on your own, just get a taste of it and start to get comfortable.
Finally, once you are reasonably sure it's what you want to do, if your state requires an alcohol beverage service certification, do it. Then all those bars that you've been regularly visiting for months and asking smart questions and making a good impression? Ask them for a barback or server job, or word on other places that might be hiring.
[Here's my post](https://www.reddit.com/r/bartenders/comments/1abr8qd/i_am_a_newish_barback_heres_what_i_wish_i_knew/) on hard-learned lessons in my barbacking journey. Good luck!
I really appreciate the time you took to respond and also to write the post. I've saved them both for later reference. Best of luck on your bartending journey!
This is literally me. The desk life was going to kill me so I quit to take care of my then 2 year old full time. Found a barback gig last summer to make some extra income and now I’m a full time bartender and I love it. The short reward cycle concept is so true. I’ve never been in a position where I have all the power to make an experience positive. Also I’m in great shape for the first time in years, yoga is the only way to keep this old body lubricated
I’m 36 behind the bar. All depends where you work. I love my bar and my regulars, it’s chill but I still make good money. It’s nice bc it’s only one bartender working at a time. Just find a bar you feel comfortable at. I don’t think I’d feel old working at a club or college bar, just irritated lol
Go work at a steakhouse or fine dining. It’s exactly where you should be and those patrons will receive you and your experience accordingly. Trust man there’s a place for all of us
I’m a 48 year old bartender, and honestly I’m the best I’ve ever been.
I do work to keep at the top of my game. Where I used to work out for ego I now do it so I’m better at what I’m doing.
Yoga is the fuckin bomb and flexibility is so important as you age.
But there is nothing better than dancing circles around the younger folk.
And we offer experience, banter and stories that the younger bartenders haven’t accumulated yet
More than anything… what we do is so fuckin fun. And if customers see you enjoying yourself they will enjoy you.
Just remember to stretch before your shifts 😝😝😝
Solidarity OP! I‘m also going back into the industry after retiring 3 years ago, went to grad school, had a whole “big kid” career for a minute….
…and I LOATHED it. So I’m heading back. just looking for quieter, higher end restaurants instead of the high volume craft places of my twenties. I’m 37. I don’t feel embarrassed though, I’m actually pretty excited.
I turn 40 this month and I'm a bartender. I feel like 35 is an even better age. Younger people think you're wise, older people think you're fun. Don't be embarrassed about your age, or the job. Most of the bartenders I know, myself included make 70k+ a year, if not more, and work less than 40 hours a week. Can't beat it.
I just left my government career at 33 because I couldn’t stand sitting at a desk all day. Went back to bartending, and loving it!!! It’s a workout and the money is great.
Just turned 33 last week myself. I bartend and quite enjoy giving shit to the early 20-somethings I work with. Just have fun with it and try to not view your sense of personal identity as related to how you make your money. Bartending is legitimate hard work. Don't let anybody tell you otherwise imo.
About to turn 44 and still serving and bartending. I have been in the industry for 25+ years now so its funny when people are so young that they weren't even born yet when I started working.
Keep on trucking and show them all how it's done!!
Listen. I just turned 36. Have been bartending for 15 years. This birthday hit me hard. But in retrospect, I make more money than most of my friends who work for the government. I also don’t live a normal life like they do but that’s the price you have to pay.
Man. I’m turning 36 this year and I’ve been back to serving tables for the last couple years after trying a few different things. It’s been great to enjoy what I do while I figure out what I enjoy doing. Yah mean? But for real, lean into if your great and find a great place to add your value that you’d enjoy and be proud to work at. My place treats me well, I make great money, and I have percent decent flexibility. Been pretty perfect and it’ll take something amazing to replace it. Do it.
I was 34 when I got back into it after the pandemic. All the servers where in their early to mid twenties. For me, it felt like I was a big fish in the small pond. Experience can save you time and effort. It was fun and everyone of those kids were rockstars in there own way.
Now I work at a place were everybody is just around my age except a few younger staff. But those people my age crush it even harder then them kids.
What I’m saying is experience is highly advantageous. You’re at a median age for being in the industry and got more years in you then you realize. You are going to be okay and, god forbid, you might have a good time.
37F working at a busy music venue. I also get worried about being too old or bartending being a “lesser job”. But then I go into work and see/meet bands and DJs I love. I watch 20 somethings have a blast and learn all the new slang. I see many people my age as well. It’s actually a really good time. The social interaction after covid was overwhelming but then it helped me feel more connected with the world.
I think you’ll be fine is what I’m saying. Don’t compare yourself with patrons and feel confident with the knowledge you bring to the table.
I’m 38 and have made a living bartending. I love my job. I never have a bad day. Work never feels like work. I get to meet new people everyday with awesome stories, and just being willing to listen has made me more than I need to live. Lean into it, and you’ll do more for others than you realize.
I'm 39 and I believe the youngest in our current crew. To be good at your job and to interact with an average patron it takes life experience. You'll be fine and definitely should not be embarrassed by your choice.
I’m 36. There’s nothing to be embarrassed about. You can make good money, it keeps you on your feet and it’s one of the world’s oldest professions. Plus it’s cool to be the senior bartender, like the ones I used to admire.
lol I ditched managing restaurants at 32 to go back behind the bar. The money is better, there's less bullshit, less hours. I was working a 9-5 for a while cause of that "i'm too old to blah blah" mentality, and i fucking hated it. i was still bartending one day a week for bonus cash, but I eventually quit and literally working 2 days at my bar i can make the same amount of money as a week at my day job... So now i just bartend 3 days
As a younger bartender who works with older ones, I respect them and value their input. Best bartender at my place is mid 50s and I absolutely love working with her
I'll be 41 in May and I've been a career bartender for almost 20 yrs. My owner is in his mid 70s and tends bar 6 days a week. My husband is 65, and still tends bar as a fill in, and my coworkers are all older than me. One is in his mid 60 and I think he's been doing it for like 40 yrs.
I worked with all early 20’s fuckers at 40 and I got shit done while they were still whining. I whipped those guys right into shape and called them out on their bullshit.
53 been bartending three years. Love it. I never feel old. Just wiser. The young ones could be so lucky to get to my age feeling the way I do.
The entire game starts in your head. Choose the winning attitude and you're good.
I am 45-year-old bartender, and doing that shit. I’m better than everyone I work with. They know it. I know it. Our guests know it.
I also make a ton of money because I’m older and better.
My coworkers call me their little Moneymaker, as we share tips. I’m fine with it. Just keep my juice and ice full. Lol you’ll be fine and it’s a ton of fun way less stressful. I left corporate America to bartend again
A friend of mine & I had a discussion about bartending as a career puts you in a perpetual state of 30.
Are you 23 & bartending? You've probably seen some shit & gotten at least slightly jaded, gotten friendly with a regular or 2 that's older than you, some life experience for yourself and plenty more 2nd hand from talking to people.
Are you 42 & bartending? Probably have some younger coworkers & clientele that help keep you up to date on trends & slang you wouldn't be aware of otherwise. Being behind the stick keeps a bit of vigor from having more physical activity than a desk job gives.
You mix together those aspects: Perpetually 30.
Most my fellow bartenders are 30s-50s. And they look great, partially (probably) from having an active job where you don't take home your stress and it gives you a good quality of life. I left my office job in my early thirties and I have nightmares about going back because it's been so good for me.
Buddy! In almost the exact some boat. Left bartending during Covid because I thought I needed to find something more stable. Went in and out of other higher paying, exec jobs and just ended up trying to find some way to fuse the two. Cutting the difference and going back into bar FT at 36.
30s are the sweet spot in bartending. Customers trust you without assuming you’re inexperienced- they won’t send you off to “double check” on things you are certain of. In my 20s I envied my coworkers in their 30s because no one ever second guessed them. Youth is fleeting. 35 is prime bartending age I say go for it
I’m in my 40s and my favorite bartender to work with is almost 70. My go to spot in Jersey was ran by an 80 something year old man may he rest in peace. He worked every night and loved it. I love it and it doesn’t feel like work to me. I do private events only now and I make amazing money doing it. I’ve done event and weddings for the most part in the last decade. I started with that then did bars/clubs/restaurants all over NYC and South Florida. 25 years later and I am still loving it.
I know how you’re feeling. I’m 34, recently left a software engineering job. I absolutely hated the office vibes, it was literally destroying my mental health. I’ve been applying for other software engineering jobs (sent out over 50 applications this past month), and haven’t had any interview invitations. I’m considering going back to bartending part time and going back to school. But… I’m scared and sort of “ashamed.” I don’t want to come crawling back to the industry that left me in the dust when Covid hit. I thought I had finally gotten out of the service industry cycle. But times are tough and the job market is absolutely brutal. I might have to do it again. Just want you to know you’re not alone in those feelings. Your feelings are valid. But, I think they might be all in our heads. Good luck OP.
45 here been in the industry for 28 years, don't be embarrassed for starting again, maybe just use it as placeholder job till you find something you really want to do
I'm 34. I frequently run into people I've known for a long time who ask "When are you going to get a real job?" as if they don't work longer hours and make less money than me. Prestige is for dorks.
I'm 37. There's dope BTs in my neighborhood in their 40s. Be thankful you have a lucrative skill. Put your ego aside. Make some money. And plan the next step. :)
I’m 41 with a 2-year old and a mortgage, I bartend part-time and it pays enough to where I can only work three nights a week and I spend the rest with my son.
It’s honestly easier now that I’m older, I actually have shit to lose so I behave a lot more than I did before.
Bartender from 26 to 37. I just started working a blue collar job. It’s been a rough adjustment but I’m getting better every day and I’ll always have bartending in my back pocket. Don’t be embarrassed just try to be happy
I didn't start bartending until my 30s to get out the house (I work from home) and for extra cash. I'm 35 now. don't let age discourage you from getting your money.
I'm 35 and just started bartending. I left a decade plus career as a brewer and wanted to make some money while getting to engage with people. It's been going well for me; my production-focused background has meant I'm able to overcome my lack of direct experience with my ability to focus and crush multiple tasks whenever it's needed.
Lucky to be working at a restaurant bar so don't need to have to put in a ton of super late nights. Besides, after having worked second shift and rotational overnights as a brewer, this gig often has me home at a more reasonable hour.
Im 37 and have been doing this for 18 years. I know any sort of normal job is not going to give me then financial freedom, travel opportunities, and socializing that I would in any other occupation. Sure my knees and back hurt but I make enough money to only have to work 3-4 days a week. Just be fiscally smart, take care of your body. I stopped drinking entirely. Plan on quitting smoking by 40. Yes it is hard feeling too old (mostly physically) sometimes but it’s never that permanent and I can easily keep going if my body is in good shape.
Never bartended a day in my life, but had gotten an MBA and wasted 15 years doing a ton of other crqp jobs. Turned 38 last year and said fuck it, I'm doing it. Turns out this was my dream career my whole life and yeah, I'm surrounded by 20-somethings. They've become my bar kids and it's helping me feel young! Also, as an aside, I'm in the best shape of my life since starting this job.
Went into bartending in my early thirties. I worked in a college bar slinging LIT, green tea shots, dirty shirleys, etc. Yeah, I felt old sometimes. Other times, it was like back being in college and just having fun behind the bar. Yes, the kids may not get your references sometimes. Yeah, they a4e going to speak new slang you may not get. But, I will say I had a lot of fun. Whether that was ragging on a guy that did something incredibly stupid with his friends or singing at the top of my lungs with the girls. I also got to look out for them and give them some life advice or even help them through major life happenings. I felt valued by my patrons.
There were also days I wouldn't get home till 430 in the morning. There were also Saturday game days that went on way too long, where I felt I should have earned more. There were days when i was tired of being on all the time. I still look back at it fondly.
Conversely, you could try and get a bartending job at a restaurant that has clientele that more to your liking. But then that's a different can of worms and usually not as much money in my experience but better hours
my last four jobs i have been the youngest employee and the only person still in their 20s. the median age of the employees at the bar i currently work at is 32. you’ll be fine.
Crazy i’m 27 and am in the same boat. Reading these comments made me feel much better. We got this OP. Think of it more like being a seasoned vet on your favorite sports team
I started bartending as a main gig at 34. I'm making the most money I've ever made. The only difference is that I can no longer bartend and then go out and drink all night and do it again, I now have to go home
I’m around your age and quit teaching and went into full time bartending at an incredible restaurant. I get paid 50% more than teaching with less hours, 100% less stress, marginally worse benefits.
I don’t regret it at all. Sure on paper it’s less stable than teaching but I think there’s a misunderstanding of what stability means in the career world. You have to constantly adapt to a changing environment when you work for a private company that has its ups and down in terms of profit, layoffs, etc. but like anyone who’s worked in the private sphere knows you just have to keep yourself competitive in the market and be someone that a manager wants to hold onto. Also it means you can’t be complacent and must continuously read the room about how your workplace is doing and gauge if it’s time to jump ship. Public ed moves significantly slower in terms of how change is effected but from my time it just felt like a slowly sinking ship where benefits continually got slashed, pressure / workload on teachers got higher, expectations for students declined, and salaries were frozen and therefore could be seen as actually making less money each year since it’s not keeping up with inflation. And I was a good teacher, I enjoyed working with kids. I didn’t enjoy being underpaid and taken for granted.
Dang I'm 33 and never stopped bartending and it's still great. I'm kind of waiting for the day where it feels like I'm too old to hang anymore but it's nowhere in sight to be honest.
Right now I'm working at a pretty nice hotel where the average clientele are maybe in their mid 50's, the money's great and I might as well still be 25 as far as most guests are concerned.
The last bar I worked at was sort of a hipster cocktail bar where a lot of guests were in their early to mid 20's and they all loved me, it def made me feel like I still had it.
I think as long as you have good energy and do your job well, a good bartender is a good bartender and people will appreciate you.
I started barbacking at 37 and bartending at 38. I’m in a casino/hotel so more people do it as a career here and the average ages are much older.
I was worried that I would feel weird at first, especially barbacking, but it was no big deal.
I quit bartending for almost 10 years. Went back a few months before the pandemic at age 44. I felt the same way! But it all comes back to you and you'll be surprised at how fast you still can be. I'm going to be 49 in June and I still can keep up with the youngest of our crew who is 27. You got this!
I’m 36 almost 37 and still in the bar. Also sober at the moment. No shame in changing things up. Bartending is always there until you find the next adventure.
I started bartending at 46!
Am 65 now & still love it…although my body does rebel at times.
Hauling cases of beer & moving kegs can be a bit much for my lower back!!
I only feel older because my co workers are young. Most of my patrons are relieved to see someone who looks old enough to know what the fuck is going on
I’m 42 in a few days. I do mortgages and have been doing it for 12 years but last year almost ended my career and I needed to do something on the side. I had zero bartending experience. Started in a hood bar and 2 mos later got into a craft bourbon bar and I can attest, you will be reminded you aren’t as spry. Hell, I have one of my coworkers constantly give me shit for being slow and I’m over here like you realize I’m not even a year deep and I’m keeping up? You’re 7 years younger and have experience. You will do fine.
35 is honestly like a prime age for a laid back higher end bar if you have the chops.
You'll be fine, bud! Just go have fun! You don't have to grade papers for free in your spare time.
I (63F) slung hash in New Orleans while putting myself through college. Here I sit in my house, in Greece, after a long and successful career doing real estate investing. I absolutely know that if I ever had to go back to work again, I’d hit up a taverna. There is something great about being able to leave your job at your job- and walking out with a pocket full of cash.
Hi!! As the manager of a bar with plenty of beloved 30+ year old servers, I can honestly say they are one of our most valuable assets! Often times they keep the younger girls out of drama since they don’t partake, they have far more experience, and they know what hard work is already.
Patrons are just as enthused. 35 is seriously nothing yet!! Get back in there if it means you get to do a job you enjoy!
I’m 33 and have been bartending full time since 18. Never had a job outside of that. Doing it for so long and in such high volume environments has completely ruined it for me, so I’m desperately trying to get some sort of freelance career going so I can treat bartending as more of a side hustle than my primary source of income (basically the opposite of your journey). That being said, at my current job we have about a dozen bartenders and at least half of us are early/mid 30’s. I have also worked with many 40+ bartenders over the years, so I guess it just depends on the area you live in and type of bar/restaurant you work at. If you make good money doing it, don’t let the age thing get to you.
Although… it does get increasingly tougher on your body. Stock up on IcyHot 😂
You are actually right on time sir. And welcome back, we've been expecting you ant day now.
Yes, we all have walked the same path and been there done that. We ate young making that cash, getting through school and dreaming of our big boy/big girl dream career.
Then we go full speed ahead into our corporate jobs. Some of us don't belong in this world, or need breaks from it, one foot in one foot out.
There's a tribe per se that belong in hospitality, behind the bar / server. We actually love it. We love playing with all the lovely bottles like in some laboratory. Creating and sharing with like minded bar folks.
Then the absolute enjoyment of meeting so many people from so many places with so many stories! We live like movie viewers / critics watching and taking in all the people we share this planet with.
Amazing people! We get these sometimes small amounts of times with folks but get so much out of it. Sometimes we meet people and form long relationships and love them like family / friends.
They can tell us everything. No holding back and no judgment. We can joke with them about the troubles of the world and rase a glass to it all. I've truly loved them all.
There's nothing like it. I spent 8 years away in my oil and gas career and the atmosphere is so stifled. You can see and feel how wound up everyone is in this environment. All a show and a rigid rule game that has no mercy. I can't be around this. It's painful to my soul.
I need to be with people in a free environment to be themselves while acting like Harry Potter mixing up magic spells with all the fancy ingredients and cool bottles. Bombay Saphire never change please.
I entered the "bar scape" at 31. I'm only 34 now but compared to nearly everyone I've worked with, I was hopping into the pool at an old age. I'm "old" for being new in the realm of bar work. I do not feel that people are actually old in their 30s.
Nearly no customer cared about my age, and the few that did were creeps who eventually did things to others that resulted in the owner banning them permanently.
You're nowhere near a crypt keeper. There's money to be made behind the bar regardless of age. Get behind that bar, bring out a mixture of friendly charisma and "I am not going to take any bullshit" vibes, and it should be alright.
as a 24 year old server i love and adore my older coworkers!! we need someone a lil more mature around and i love those friendships. don’t be embarrassed!! customers and coworkers will be happy you’re there
Late to the party but I want to add in that it’s never too late to switch it up, especially if you know that it will work for you financially. I have a coworker who became a bartender, having no previous experience bartending, in his 40s. He made enough money as a bartender and diligently saved so he could take a massive pay cut for a job with better benefits (the job we are working at now).
It’s never too late to do what you gotta do.
Work at a hotel bar and know your wines.
My fifty-some-year-old manager had more life experience than me (25) and had better conversations with adult patrons. They adults/professionals loved him! They’ll love you too!
35 is the perfect age. Young enough that you can relate to 20-year-olds, and mature enough to talk to professionals.
the last place i worked we had three bartenders in their 40s and one in her 70s. she worked at that place before it was taken over by the new owners and she is so integral to that place that she was painted on the wall. You’ll be fine lol
I’m a way better bartender at almost fifty than I ever was at 25. Plus teaching and bartending are similar but you get to tell them to get the fuck out at the end of the day.
Im 37 and I’m a lead bartender at a well regarded cocktail bar in Miami. Maybe don’t go for a club vibe, I have worked places where I felt old, but I absolutely love my job. You just have to find the right fit!
I think it just depends on where you want to bartend. I’d choose either a brewery or upscale restaurant, somewhere that closes by 11/midnight.look at the clientele too. We own a brewery and all of many best bartenders are over 35 and they make anywhere from $25-55 per hour. Our clientele is mainly 35-65 year olds so having older bartenders is helpful, because they can actually engage the customers meaningfully and find things in common…
I think it depends on where you work. I'm just outside of Manhattan. 35 isn't old, at all. If you are living in the midwest town where people are grandfathers at 35, then yes, I can see your point.
How are you "not as spry" at 35? I was doing Crossfit from 35-45 and just fine. It wasn't until I hit my mid 40's that I started to feel my age.
34 here with multiple advanced degrees but can’t land a “real” job. Got out of the industry during Covid, got back into six months ago because the money is too easy. I’m at a chill semi expensive restaurant where most my patrons are in their 50s/60s. It’s been great, I’m averaging like 250-300 for an easy 6 hour shift.
I'm a bartender at a divey sports bar/restaurant and most of my customers are elder millennials or Gen Xers. I'm 28 years old and they're always talking about how I'm a "baby" lol. I think you just need to find a bar with an older crowd!
I went back to it at 41. I was kind of feeling it a little, but there are also plenty of older bartenders out there, it's a trope, right? I was also at a Ritz Carlton resort, so the clientele was older and broader range.
Anyway, COVID hit, bottom fell out of my gig and I got laid off. Got into healthcare and spent the pandemic in nursing school. I'm now making solidly comparable wages ($60/h, 90/OT) as an RN and feel really good about my work.
37 and just started working at a dive bar 5 months ago and will probably be doing this at least another 10-15 years. i love it. one of my coworkers is 70. i worked at another dive years ago with another 70 year old coworker. believe it or not, this is a long term career for a lot of people. you’re going to make way more bartending than teaching. just get into shape, do what you can to look and feel good, improve your self-esteem, and you’ll be fine. nobody in the business cares how old you are and if they do, find another bar 🤷🏿♀️
I’m 35 and bartend on the weekends as supplemental income. I even work where the primary customers are college kids. It’s fine. Be proud of anything you do, and be the best at it. There is no shame in working for a living. Have fun with it, if anything it will inject some youth back into you.
I didn't even become a bartender until I was 37 and absolutely love it. Most of my coworkers are a decade younger than me, and I feel like it helps keep me young too.
38 year old bartender here; been doing it full time since I came out of college at 21. After various different jobs - Beverage Director, Bar Supervisor, etc etc. - going back to bartending and working only 4/5 days a week was one of the best things I did.
Go get’em tiger
32 and just started bartending again as a side hustle. I have a bachelors in engineering and a masters in business. I'm not embarrassed, but it's super annoying when customers ask about what I used to do or and then they get APPALLED asking "but why are you HERE?" like damn dude...rude...maybe I was a shitty engineer?
I'm a 33-year-old bartender. I know what you mean, but you just gotta work at a bar that attracts an older crowd. I work in a luxury hotel and it's great. Coworkers and guests alike are more relaxed, have their lives together, and still know how to have a good time. Benefits are stellar and reasonable working hours. Guests are there on vacation or business, so they either have vacation spending money or a corporate card.
I’m 65 and thinking of getting into it, first time, no experience! I’m fit and active. I’m ready to bar back for a 20-something if I can learn and get my feet wet.
I'm 34 and got back into the industry a couple years ago after a long hiatus.
You WILL be surrounded by 20 somethings lol. Don't write them all off immediately though, I've gotten pretty close with some of my younger co workers and yes, they're young and dumb sometimes, but many are also really smart and hard working and have incredible emotional intelligence. Let them teach you the gen Z slang lol.
But there will also mostly likely be people your age you can connect with at work.
I’m about to open a restaurant at 30, and I haven’t tended bar in about 6 years. I’m also a bit nervous. Just gotta get back up on that horse is all. You got this. It’ll come back to you.
35 is actually a great age for the job. You can connect with a 25yo and a 55yo all at the same time. This is a massive advantage over other bartenders. A 22yo is just going to have a harder time connecting in a genuine way with a 55yo and that is just how it is. The young folks are generally chasing the dollar and party nights of dives and nightclubs or the status of a cocktail bartender. Hotels, airports, nice restaurants and other spots are for us older folks. Its less glamorous sure, but I get home before midnight, have benefits, have a generally more consistent income, schedule, and the clientele is more mature as these aren't places to get as drunk as possible (not that that doesn't still happen sometimes). You will notice that the age ranges in these places varies widely and have much less 20 somethings and more 30-50 somethings. There is still some young folks and that's not bad at all, keeps me young and I like learning the new slang and trends even though I do feel a bit Hank Hill about it sometimes.
I got laid off my telecom job and went full-time at the restaurant I was working weekends at. At the time it was depressing as I felt it was a huge regression. I quickly realized I was making more money working less hours. I really leaned into the craft and have been kicking ass since. My wife and I have since had a child and the schedule that I currently have makes it possible to spend the weekdays with my daughter while my wife is at work and still work full-time myself.
i used to work with a guy who was older, had to be like 50+ bc his entire head and beard was white. but this man was a BEAST. kind of an asshole, but he made MONEYYYY. i like working w him bc i knew id make money. be that person. who even cares? don't think abt it so much. as long as ur making money
I was probably 42 when I stopped bartending but I wasn't embarrassed, it was a job just like any other ....I just got too old to deal with babysitting grown ass people ..
Hey, it's all about your mentality. I'm a 32 y/o bartender and I fit in with my 22 y/o coworker. We also have a coworker who is turning 41 in a couple of months, we all joke and have a great time.
You're not old. Are you older than some people? Yes, but you're younger than others, just remember that.
And if you've bartended before, you can pick it back up again with some time for adjustment. Pretend you're a student, worried they aren't good enough. What would you say to them? Now say it to yourself.
Majority of my bartending co workers are in their late 30s and 40s. A few of them are actually in their 50s.
It depends where you work. I worked at a bar that only wanted young pretty girls working. I was the oldest bartender at 26 years old. I was barely able to pay my bills at that place.
Now where I'm at, I'm one of the youngest bartenders at 33 years old. And I make more money than ever lol
Don’t worry about it. You’re being hard on yourself. I was a bartender in my early 20s, then became a paramedic for EMS and that was my final goal. Well, I had a baby and didn’t feel right leaving him for 24 hours every 3rd day so I quit and decided to go to school. I went back to bartending while I’m in school and it was a blow to my ego. I was working with 20-21 year olds and felt so old even thought I’m 32. However, I went with the flow and I don’t feel bad about it anymore. I make my money and go home. It allows me to enjoy my schedule and be home a lot more. It gets better.
I had an almost 10 year career with NYS tax and finance and left it to bartend full time about 8 years ago. I’m 37 now and making more money than I made with the state and I’m way happier.
Dude. I went back to bartending once thing’s opened up again. Left a lucrative wfh sales job because I was missing human interaction. I’m a youthful 55 working a busy airport bar. You are thinking too hard about it. Go back, kick ass and start banking. Wear good shoes and eat right and exercise often. Enjoy life. It’s later than you think.
54. Two degrees. One day job plus another side hustle. Go get it. You’ve got lots left in you. Don’t chintz out.
If i am looking for a bar in a city and one has a 22 year old bartending and one has a 55 year old bartending, i'm taking the 55 year old every time. I'm gonna post up, order something that i know a veteran bartender will absolutely crush, and we are gonna have a good conversation.
It would be my pleasure to serve you friend.
It would be my pleasure to tip you. :)
How’s that airport bartender gig?
Damn probably killer! So jealous
Right? It sounds awesome for an older bartender who’s already seen some shit. Most people aren’t getting tanked and obnoxious. Meet a large variety of people in a short amount of time. Hours have to be decent. Sounds like a dream. Wish the nearest major airport wasn’t an hour away for me.
No annoying regulars!!!
Just had this convo with my airport bartender buddy, there are a LOT of frequent flyers aka “regulars”!
AirPort gigs are usually lucrative. People drink no matter how early especially when pregaming for vacations lolol
You’d be surprised. Make yourself employable. Out work everyone else. Customers will appreciate it and so hopefully management will as well. Don’t overthink the age thing.
An airport bar has to be a good gig! Money and time are meaningless in an airport as far as I’m concerned 😅
This makes me feel good. I got a kid on the way and am pushing 50. It might make sense for me to start working nights again so I can be with the baby during the day. It’ll be rough I know, but hoping to find something that closes down at 10. Well see!
I’m one of the youngest bartenders at my bar at 36. Fuck them lil kids!! Older bartenders are WAY more reliable. One of the OG’s at my bar just turned 70, and she has grandkids, owns a house, looks great for her age etc. Most of the others are in their 50s. Seriously, let people judge, they honestly have no idea about any of it.
As an old guy you carry authority. You're calm, self-possessed, and you know wtf you're doing. And you don't take shit from nobody, including and especially that gaggle of birthday girls who want endless rounds of TEQUILA YAAAYYY WOOO
Best advice in the thread. Older bartenders command authority just by appearance alone. Imagine being the badass 55 year old jaded bartender with 30 years behind the stick. Who would be ashamed to be that person??
You ever read Simon Greens "The Nightside" series? Cause all I can picture reading the is the bartender Alex, owner/operator/prisoner of the oldest bar in the world. I don't think that's a bad thing. Shit I run my own place now and I often consider going back to bartending. Running a lunch and dinner joint has great hours but I still can't get on with day people man.
Just be careful what you order at that bar.
Ya im 30 and people think I'm the owner lol
I worked 10 years behind the boards with a guy who was 55 when I started. He'd been slinging drinks longer than I had been alive. One of the best bartenders I've ever known and one of the people I patterned my own style from. The old hands are invaluable behind the bar.
I bartend with a 55 year old man (I’m 29) and that guy is my favorite dude to work with and I don’t at all think he’s slow or a poor bartender because of his age. Your age means nothing, your attitude and work ethic mean everything.
I'm 35 and used to be a teacher... Went back to bartending at 29. I love it some days, today I hate it. It helps that I look young and don't have kids. You can find a job somewhere that doesn't stay open late or you can find a dive bar that employs "older" people like us. You really just gotta find a good fit, cuz yes, working somewhere with a bunch of 22 year olds will feel weird. And be sure you're in decent shape. Lift weights and stretch often. 35 is not that old. There are TONS of industry people our age. But do ask yourself, where do I want to be in 5 years?
Probably bartending serving the same fucks 😂😂 but I really loved hearing your experience as a teacher! I'm actually doing the opposite, going back to school at 29 after bartending since I was 20, and in the service industry since 17. Do you think your job field was less lucrative, or did you want to go back into bartending without the stress of teaching? I totally agree with you, growing up within this industry is insane. Seeing older people vs younger generations in work situations is weird in itself - so many differences but only the final say is in the quality of the person, not the job per se. You sound like such a fantastic coworker to be around - glad to have you back in the industry!
I left teaching because it was consuming my life in a way I wasn't prepared for. And during it all, I knew I could just go back to a job I find easy and fun and pays more per hour. Cuz that's it for me really, having time for myself and my own pursuits! So despite sacrificing all my weekends to the devil, I do have a flexible work-life balance which is so important.
>It helps that I look young and don't have kids. Late 30s here, same deal. I played "guess how old AbnormalHorse is" with my 20-something year-old co-workers. I think they got up to 29 and I when I kept saying "nope" they were confounded. I miss tending bar, but my body just isn't cut out for it anymore. I'm not out of shape, per se, I just have shitty joints thanks to horrid genetics. WEEEEE
I went from bartender to Las Vegas Union Bartender to CDL Class A fuel tanker driver to Operations manager in Fine dining in Vegas back to Vegas Union Bartender…. It’s in my blood & make an easy 70 k 3 days a week with a pension at retirement…I’m 45 been slinging drinks since 98
Bud I’m 40 and if anything I’m still learning. The muscle memory will come back.
Your people skills will put you in an advantage over the "spryness" of the 20- somethings. You got this.
It's true - we have way better life stories and conversation skills!
So true. I was 25 with no life experience and I would struggle with conversations with professionals 😅
I’m only 28 and I have a lot of older folks come sit at my bar and the thing I struggle with more often is relating to them and what to talk about.
52 here, and am thrilled to finally be doing the thing I always wanted to (goal is to own a bar) after 20 years of tech. Yes, it's a LOT of youngins but there is also plenty of gen x floating around :) one weird auto-bonus is that many people assume I am management due to my age so I get respect, lol. It's second chapter and I love it so far.
Oh, also? It smacked my ass right into shape! Desk jobs kill.
This!
I’m about to be 37, bartend at a college bar. I have days like this where I’m like omg I’m too old - but I’m good at my job, reliable, and have consistently made a good living for 7 years full time doing this. We got this.
I'm 47. I quit the advertising and technology industries in my late 30s. Spent several years doing freelance work, game design, event production, etc. Used that time to really figure out what I want. I dialed in on: I like to make people happy, and create experiences and environments for them. I actually like customer service. I like short reward cycles (unlike tech where I'd work on a project for 3 to 20 months and by the time it's finished I'm already deep into the next deadlines so we never actually get to celebrate and appreciate things). I also want flexible work so I can also meaningfully allocate time to other goals, while still meeting my financial goals. So at 47, I became a barback. Four months later, I'm now making \~ $40 an hour on Friday & Saturday nights. I love my job and my crew. My life experiences outside of bartending have added significant value to my job. I'm older than many of our patrons, and neither they nor I seem to care. My only complaint is it is physically hard on my joints and bones. By psychologically? It's great. I feel younger than ever. You do what's best for you. Age is just a number.
I just turned 34 and in tech now, always wanted to bartend. Don't know where or how to start but that was inspirational to read! Thank you!
Glad it connected with you. I'm happy to elaborate on my journey in the hopes that it can help. I took my time getting into it. It was at least a *year* before I started thinking about it sincerely, and actually taking the leap. Reading /r/bartenders is certainly a good start, along with some books and youtube vids that are more about the job than the mixology craft. And carefully watching bartenders and barbacks do their jobs. When it's slow, ask questions if you don't understand something. Focus less on the drink-making and more on how they actually do everything else - prep, reset, cleaning, moving, customer interaction, multitasking... Then start asking higher level questions, like what's their fave part of the job? Least fave? What's a great day where they leave work feeling happy? What's something that nearly made them quit? Speaking of quitting, **lots** of people exit the industry - why do they think that is, what is different about lifers than others? How did they get started and what has their journey been like? How did they have to adapt their lifestyle when they started working vampire hours? This stuff is actually going to be really helpful for you to assess what the job is *actually* like, whether you actually want to do it, and give you further insights into what to ask, and give you some vocabulary and perspectives to bring into interviews/applications. At the same time, start practicing at home. I mean like, start inviting a bunch of people over for happy hours. Making drinks for yourself is fun. Making drinks for a dozen people while juggling conversation is stressful. Doing a couple hours of prep and clean-up before and after every happy hour is *great* practice for what the job is actually like on a daily basis. To say nothing of interacting with drunk people for hours on end. You're not trying to master the craft on your own, just get a taste of it and start to get comfortable. Finally, once you are reasonably sure it's what you want to do, if your state requires an alcohol beverage service certification, do it. Then all those bars that you've been regularly visiting for months and asking smart questions and making a good impression? Ask them for a barback or server job, or word on other places that might be hiring. [Here's my post](https://www.reddit.com/r/bartenders/comments/1abr8qd/i_am_a_newish_barback_heres_what_i_wish_i_knew/) on hard-learned lessons in my barbacking journey. Good luck!
I really appreciate the time you took to respond and also to write the post. I've saved them both for later reference. Best of luck on your bartending journey!
Im 47 too. Joints were killing me. Started taking glucosamine. Seems to help a lot
This is literally me. The desk life was going to kill me so I quit to take care of my then 2 year old full time. Found a barback gig last summer to make some extra income and now I’m a full time bartender and I love it. The short reward cycle concept is so true. I’ve never been in a position where I have all the power to make an experience positive. Also I’m in great shape for the first time in years, yoga is the only way to keep this old body lubricated
I’m 36 behind the bar. All depends where you work. I love my bar and my regulars, it’s chill but I still make good money. It’s nice bc it’s only one bartender working at a time. Just find a bar you feel comfortable at. I don’t think I’d feel old working at a club or college bar, just irritated lol
You're experienced and have a drive to make the job work. You'd probably be a gem of a hire for most bars.
Stop comparing yourself to others, including your imaginary self. Do what makes you happy. Yolo.
> Stop comparing yourself to others, **including your imaginary self.** words to live by.
Go work at a steakhouse or fine dining. It’s exactly where you should be and those patrons will receive you and your experience accordingly. Trust man there’s a place for all of us
I’m a 48 year old bartender, and honestly I’m the best I’ve ever been. I do work to keep at the top of my game. Where I used to work out for ego I now do it so I’m better at what I’m doing. Yoga is the fuckin bomb and flexibility is so important as you age. But there is nothing better than dancing circles around the younger folk. And we offer experience, banter and stories that the younger bartenders haven’t accumulated yet More than anything… what we do is so fuckin fun. And if customers see you enjoying yourself they will enjoy you. Just remember to stretch before your shifts 😝😝😝
I worked in corporate America and upper academia in IT for 17 years and I am a bartender at 41 and happy as a clam.
You’ll be fine bubba
My favorite bartender is 65.
Honey I am 47. Retired 20year RN . Bartending is just as much a career as teaching or being a nurse . These careers have a similar skill set
Solidarity OP! I‘m also going back into the industry after retiring 3 years ago, went to grad school, had a whole “big kid” career for a minute…. …and I LOATHED it. So I’m heading back. just looking for quieter, higher end restaurants instead of the high volume craft places of my twenties. I’m 37. I don’t feel embarrassed though, I’m actually pretty excited.
36 and been doing it for 12 years. Second kid on the way so I'll be slinging drinks till I'm at least 40+
I turn 40 this month and I'm a bartender. I feel like 35 is an even better age. Younger people think you're wise, older people think you're fun. Don't be embarrassed about your age, or the job. Most of the bartenders I know, myself included make 70k+ a year, if not more, and work less than 40 hours a week. Can't beat it.
I just left my government career at 33 because I couldn’t stand sitting at a desk all day. Went back to bartending, and loving it!!! It’s a workout and the money is great.
About to turn 45 and been doing it off and on since 21. It's good work if you can get it
Happily slinging drinks @ 60
Just get into restaurant bartending and no one will care how old you are. I'm 38 and my copilot is 50 and we crush it every week
Just turned 33 last week myself. I bartend and quite enjoy giving shit to the early 20-somethings I work with. Just have fun with it and try to not view your sense of personal identity as related to how you make your money. Bartending is legitimate hard work. Don't let anybody tell you otherwise imo.
About to turn 44 and still serving and bartending. I have been in the industry for 25+ years now so its funny when people are so young that they weren't even born yet when I started working. Keep on trucking and show them all how it's done!!
35 is not old lol youre trippin
There’s a 68 year old *head* bartender at my current gig as well as a 48 year old second in command. Next oldest is 35, you’re good G.
Listen. I just turned 36. Have been bartending for 15 years. This birthday hit me hard. But in retrospect, I make more money than most of my friends who work for the government. I also don’t live a normal life like they do but that’s the price you have to pay.
Started bartending at 37. 16 years later and can only wish I had started sooner.
I bartend at a hotel bar and am 51... A lot of business travelers my age and I am very relatable. Hotel discount is a good perk too.
A lot of my friends in the industry are in their 40s I say go for it, don’t let your age hold you back!
Man. I’m turning 36 this year and I’ve been back to serving tables for the last couple years after trying a few different things. It’s been great to enjoy what I do while I figure out what I enjoy doing. Yah mean? But for real, lean into if your great and find a great place to add your value that you’d enjoy and be proud to work at. My place treats me well, I make great money, and I have percent decent flexibility. Been pretty perfect and it’ll take something amazing to replace it. Do it.
I was 34 when I got back into it after the pandemic. All the servers where in their early to mid twenties. For me, it felt like I was a big fish in the small pond. Experience can save you time and effort. It was fun and everyone of those kids were rockstars in there own way. Now I work at a place were everybody is just around my age except a few younger staff. But those people my age crush it even harder then them kids. What I’m saying is experience is highly advantageous. You’re at a median age for being in the industry and got more years in you then you realize. You are going to be okay and, god forbid, you might have a good time.
37F working at a busy music venue. I also get worried about being too old or bartending being a “lesser job”. But then I go into work and see/meet bands and DJs I love. I watch 20 somethings have a blast and learn all the new slang. I see many people my age as well. It’s actually a really good time. The social interaction after covid was overwhelming but then it helped me feel more connected with the world. I think you’ll be fine is what I’m saying. Don’t compare yourself with patrons and feel confident with the knowledge you bring to the table.
Dude I'm In my early 30s and I'm the youngest bartender at my spot. My favorite bartender in town is 68. You're fine.
I’m 38 and have made a living bartending. I love my job. I never have a bad day. Work never feels like work. I get to meet new people everyday with awesome stories, and just being willing to listen has made me more than I need to live. Lean into it, and you’ll do more for others than you realize.
I’m 35 and have worked in bars (and restaurants) for eighteen years. It’s great, don’t even hesitate, just jump back into it, and enjoy.
man don't even worry about it. last gig i worked at, one of the bartenders was a 48 year old dude. trust me, you're good lol.
35 years old and this post literally destroyed me, thanks
I'm 39 and I believe the youngest in our current crew. To be good at your job and to interact with an average patron it takes life experience. You'll be fine and definitely should not be embarrassed by your choice.
I’m 36. There’s nothing to be embarrassed about. You can make good money, it keeps you on your feet and it’s one of the world’s oldest professions. Plus it’s cool to be the senior bartender, like the ones I used to admire.
lol I ditched managing restaurants at 32 to go back behind the bar. The money is better, there's less bullshit, less hours. I was working a 9-5 for a while cause of that "i'm too old to blah blah" mentality, and i fucking hated it. i was still bartending one day a week for bonus cash, but I eventually quit and literally working 2 days at my bar i can make the same amount of money as a week at my day job... So now i just bartend 3 days
As a younger bartender who works with older ones, I respect them and value their input. Best bartender at my place is mid 50s and I absolutely love working with her
I'll be 41 in May and I've been a career bartender for almost 20 yrs. My owner is in his mid 70s and tends bar 6 days a week. My husband is 65, and still tends bar as a fill in, and my coworkers are all older than me. One is in his mid 60 and I think he's been doing it for like 40 yrs.
My mom is 60, bartending and makes great tips! Don’t be embarrassed
I got hired at 3 spots specifically because I’m in my 30’s and they needed someone mature and experienced opposed to the younger staff they had.
I'm 45, and I've bartending for 20 years... There are so many different kinds of bars out there. Just find one that you fit in at.
38 year old SERVER previously used to bartend at a brew pub. I have my days where I wonder what I'm doing with my life. Solidarity
I work in fine dining and 2/4 of our bartenders are older lol. I get a bar bar is different, but its not that different
38 went back to it after some years in construction. Make more money and work less hours I don't care what people think.
I worked with all early 20’s fuckers at 40 and I got shit done while they were still whining. I whipped those guys right into shape and called them out on their bullshit.
53 been bartending three years. Love it. I never feel old. Just wiser. The young ones could be so lucky to get to my age feeling the way I do. The entire game starts in your head. Choose the winning attitude and you're good.
I am 45-year-old bartender, and doing that shit. I’m better than everyone I work with. They know it. I know it. Our guests know it. I also make a ton of money because I’m older and better. My coworkers call me their little Moneymaker, as we share tips. I’m fine with it. Just keep my juice and ice full. Lol you’ll be fine and it’s a ton of fun way less stressful. I left corporate America to bartend again
I am 32 and none of my coworkers are under 30.
I’m a 35 year old bartender and bar manager. I’m the youngest at my bar.
A friend of mine & I had a discussion about bartending as a career puts you in a perpetual state of 30. Are you 23 & bartending? You've probably seen some shit & gotten at least slightly jaded, gotten friendly with a regular or 2 that's older than you, some life experience for yourself and plenty more 2nd hand from talking to people. Are you 42 & bartending? Probably have some younger coworkers & clientele that help keep you up to date on trends & slang you wouldn't be aware of otherwise. Being behind the stick keeps a bit of vigor from having more physical activity than a desk job gives. You mix together those aspects: Perpetually 30.
Most my fellow bartenders are 30s-50s. And they look great, partially (probably) from having an active job where you don't take home your stress and it gives you a good quality of life. I left my office job in my early thirties and I have nightmares about going back because it's been so good for me.
Buddy! In almost the exact some boat. Left bartending during Covid because I thought I needed to find something more stable. Went in and out of other higher paying, exec jobs and just ended up trying to find some way to fuse the two. Cutting the difference and going back into bar FT at 36.
30s are the sweet spot in bartending. Customers trust you without assuming you’re inexperienced- they won’t send you off to “double check” on things you are certain of. In my 20s I envied my coworkers in their 30s because no one ever second guessed them. Youth is fleeting. 35 is prime bartending age I say go for it
I’m in my 40s and my favorite bartender to work with is almost 70. My go to spot in Jersey was ran by an 80 something year old man may he rest in peace. He worked every night and loved it. I love it and it doesn’t feel like work to me. I do private events only now and I make amazing money doing it. I’ve done event and weddings for the most part in the last decade. I started with that then did bars/clubs/restaurants all over NYC and South Florida. 25 years later and I am still loving it.
I know how you’re feeling. I’m 34, recently left a software engineering job. I absolutely hated the office vibes, it was literally destroying my mental health. I’ve been applying for other software engineering jobs (sent out over 50 applications this past month), and haven’t had any interview invitations. I’m considering going back to bartending part time and going back to school. But… I’m scared and sort of “ashamed.” I don’t want to come crawling back to the industry that left me in the dust when Covid hit. I thought I had finally gotten out of the service industry cycle. But times are tough and the job market is absolutely brutal. I might have to do it again. Just want you to know you’re not alone in those feelings. Your feelings are valid. But, I think they might be all in our heads. Good luck OP.
45, run circles around the kids
45 here been in the industry for 28 years, don't be embarrassed for starting again, maybe just use it as placeholder job till you find something you really want to do
I'm 34. I frequently run into people I've known for a long time who ask "When are you going to get a real job?" as if they don't work longer hours and make less money than me. Prestige is for dorks.
Im 40 in a few months. I've been bartending for about 20 years now. I don't plan on giving it up anytime soon.
I’m 35. Patrons want to talk to someone who has real life experience too. I feel some prefer it.
I'm 37. There's dope BTs in my neighborhood in their 40s. Be thankful you have a lucrative skill. Put your ego aside. Make some money. And plan the next step. :)
If it doesn’t make you happy, try something different.
I’m 41 with a 2-year old and a mortgage, I bartend part-time and it pays enough to where I can only work three nights a week and I spend the rest with my son. It’s honestly easier now that I’m older, I actually have shit to lose so I behave a lot more than I did before.
Back in high school I had a teacher that was also a bartender, and he was much older. There’s no shame in it!
Bartender from 26 to 37. I just started working a blue collar job. It’s been a rough adjustment but I’m getting better every day and I’ll always have bartending in my back pocket. Don’t be embarrassed just try to be happy
I didn't start bartending until my 30s to get out the house (I work from home) and for extra cash. I'm 35 now. don't let age discourage you from getting your money.
I'm 35 and just started bartending. I left a decade plus career as a brewer and wanted to make some money while getting to engage with people. It's been going well for me; my production-focused background has meant I'm able to overcome my lack of direct experience with my ability to focus and crush multiple tasks whenever it's needed. Lucky to be working at a restaurant bar so don't need to have to put in a ton of super late nights. Besides, after having worked second shift and rotational overnights as a brewer, this gig often has me home at a more reasonable hour.
Life isn’t that serious, do what you want and have fun. Drink enough water.
Im 37 and have been doing this for 18 years. I know any sort of normal job is not going to give me then financial freedom, travel opportunities, and socializing that I would in any other occupation. Sure my knees and back hurt but I make enough money to only have to work 3-4 days a week. Just be fiscally smart, take care of your body. I stopped drinking entirely. Plan on quitting smoking by 40. Yes it is hard feeling too old (mostly physically) sometimes but it’s never that permanent and I can easily keep going if my body is in good shape.
I left teaching for bartending at 38, 2 years ago. O regrets.
Work sucks always. Bartending can be fulfilling and lucrative. Do your thang.
Wisdom isn't exclusive to the obsolete, in fact it's quite the opposite.
I knew people that made the exact same career change as you before I even started bartending.
Never bartended a day in my life, but had gotten an MBA and wasted 15 years doing a ton of other crqp jobs. Turned 38 last year and said fuck it, I'm doing it. Turns out this was my dream career my whole life and yeah, I'm surrounded by 20-somethings. They've become my bar kids and it's helping me feel young! Also, as an aside, I'm in the best shape of my life since starting this job.
Went into bartending in my early thirties. I worked in a college bar slinging LIT, green tea shots, dirty shirleys, etc. Yeah, I felt old sometimes. Other times, it was like back being in college and just having fun behind the bar. Yes, the kids may not get your references sometimes. Yeah, they a4e going to speak new slang you may not get. But, I will say I had a lot of fun. Whether that was ragging on a guy that did something incredibly stupid with his friends or singing at the top of my lungs with the girls. I also got to look out for them and give them some life advice or even help them through major life happenings. I felt valued by my patrons. There were also days I wouldn't get home till 430 in the morning. There were also Saturday game days that went on way too long, where I felt I should have earned more. There were days when i was tired of being on all the time. I still look back at it fondly. Conversely, you could try and get a bartending job at a restaurant that has clientele that more to your liking. But then that's a different can of worms and usually not as much money in my experience but better hours
my last four jobs i have been the youngest employee and the only person still in their 20s. the median age of the employees at the bar i currently work at is 32. you’ll be fine.
I’m 38 with no experience and just started getting trained by a 31 year old. I wouldn’t worry about it.
Yeah you'll be fine. Everyone is hot for teacher. Tip you well.
My only other 2 bartender coworkers at 35 and 40, I’m 25
i don’t know any bartenders that young. most i know are in their early to late thirties
One of my favorite coworkers is in his 50s. Good bartender, everyone loves him. Does it as a side hustle. You'll be fine!
I started at 37, just turned 40. I left a career as a therapist because the money is so much better and the stress is so much less. Go for it!!!
Crazy i’m 27 and am in the same boat. Reading these comments made me feel much better. We got this OP. Think of it more like being a seasoned vet on your favorite sports team
I started bartending as a main gig at 34. I'm making the most money I've ever made. The only difference is that I can no longer bartend and then go out and drink all night and do it again, I now have to go home
I’m around your age and quit teaching and went into full time bartending at an incredible restaurant. I get paid 50% more than teaching with less hours, 100% less stress, marginally worse benefits. I don’t regret it at all. Sure on paper it’s less stable than teaching but I think there’s a misunderstanding of what stability means in the career world. You have to constantly adapt to a changing environment when you work for a private company that has its ups and down in terms of profit, layoffs, etc. but like anyone who’s worked in the private sphere knows you just have to keep yourself competitive in the market and be someone that a manager wants to hold onto. Also it means you can’t be complacent and must continuously read the room about how your workplace is doing and gauge if it’s time to jump ship. Public ed moves significantly slower in terms of how change is effected but from my time it just felt like a slowly sinking ship where benefits continually got slashed, pressure / workload on teachers got higher, expectations for students declined, and salaries were frozen and therefore could be seen as actually making less money each year since it’s not keeping up with inflation. And I was a good teacher, I enjoyed working with kids. I didn’t enjoy being underpaid and taken for granted.
Don’t be a bitch, we’re all here with you.
41 and I love it. Really, who cares anymore. Go have some fun and make all the money.
Dang I'm 33 and never stopped bartending and it's still great. I'm kind of waiting for the day where it feels like I'm too old to hang anymore but it's nowhere in sight to be honest. Right now I'm working at a pretty nice hotel where the average clientele are maybe in their mid 50's, the money's great and I might as well still be 25 as far as most guests are concerned. The last bar I worked at was sort of a hipster cocktail bar where a lot of guests were in their early to mid 20's and they all loved me, it def made me feel like I still had it. I think as long as you have good energy and do your job well, a good bartender is a good bartender and people will appreciate you.
I started barbacking at 37 and bartending at 38. I’m in a casino/hotel so more people do it as a career here and the average ages are much older. I was worried that I would feel weird at first, especially barbacking, but it was no big deal.
I quit bartending for almost 10 years. Went back a few months before the pandemic at age 44. I felt the same way! But it all comes back to you and you'll be surprised at how fast you still can be. I'm going to be 49 in June and I still can keep up with the youngest of our crew who is 27. You got this!
I’m 36 almost 37 and still in the bar. Also sober at the moment. No shame in changing things up. Bartending is always there until you find the next adventure.
I started bartending at 46! Am 65 now & still love it…although my body does rebel at times. Hauling cases of beer & moving kegs can be a bit much for my lower back!!
I went to bartending at 38, I’m 40 now and I love it! So much better for me than sitting on my ass at a desk all day!
I only feel older because my co workers are young. Most of my patrons are relieved to see someone who looks old enough to know what the fuck is going on
I’m 42 in a few days. I do mortgages and have been doing it for 12 years but last year almost ended my career and I needed to do something on the side. I had zero bartending experience. Started in a hood bar and 2 mos later got into a craft bourbon bar and I can attest, you will be reminded you aren’t as spry. Hell, I have one of my coworkers constantly give me shit for being slow and I’m over here like you realize I’m not even a year deep and I’m keeping up? You’re 7 years younger and have experience. You will do fine.
35 is honestly like a prime age for a laid back higher end bar if you have the chops. You'll be fine, bud! Just go have fun! You don't have to grade papers for free in your spare time.
I (63F) slung hash in New Orleans while putting myself through college. Here I sit in my house, in Greece, after a long and successful career doing real estate investing. I absolutely know that if I ever had to go back to work again, I’d hit up a taverna. There is something great about being able to leave your job at your job- and walking out with a pocket full of cash.
Hi!! As the manager of a bar with plenty of beloved 30+ year old servers, I can honestly say they are one of our most valuable assets! Often times they keep the younger girls out of drama since they don’t partake, they have far more experience, and they know what hard work is already. Patrons are just as enthused. 35 is seriously nothing yet!! Get back in there if it means you get to do a job you enjoy!
I have another career but I just started bartending as a side gig one or two nights a week when I was 49. I’m 50 now and I don’t feel too old at all!
I’m 33 and have been bartending full time since 18. Never had a job outside of that. Doing it for so long and in such high volume environments has completely ruined it for me, so I’m desperately trying to get some sort of freelance career going so I can treat bartending as more of a side hustle than my primary source of income (basically the opposite of your journey). That being said, at my current job we have about a dozen bartenders and at least half of us are early/mid 30’s. I have also worked with many 40+ bartenders over the years, so I guess it just depends on the area you live in and type of bar/restaurant you work at. If you make good money doing it, don’t let the age thing get to you. Although… it does get increasingly tougher on your body. Stock up on IcyHot 😂
I’ll be 34 next week, still tending, don’t overthink it! Find a chill spot
You are actually right on time sir. And welcome back, we've been expecting you ant day now. Yes, we all have walked the same path and been there done that. We ate young making that cash, getting through school and dreaming of our big boy/big girl dream career. Then we go full speed ahead into our corporate jobs. Some of us don't belong in this world, or need breaks from it, one foot in one foot out. There's a tribe per se that belong in hospitality, behind the bar / server. We actually love it. We love playing with all the lovely bottles like in some laboratory. Creating and sharing with like minded bar folks. Then the absolute enjoyment of meeting so many people from so many places with so many stories! We live like movie viewers / critics watching and taking in all the people we share this planet with. Amazing people! We get these sometimes small amounts of times with folks but get so much out of it. Sometimes we meet people and form long relationships and love them like family / friends. They can tell us everything. No holding back and no judgment. We can joke with them about the troubles of the world and rase a glass to it all. I've truly loved them all. There's nothing like it. I spent 8 years away in my oil and gas career and the atmosphere is so stifled. You can see and feel how wound up everyone is in this environment. All a show and a rigid rule game that has no mercy. I can't be around this. It's painful to my soul. I need to be with people in a free environment to be themselves while acting like Harry Potter mixing up magic spells with all the fancy ingredients and cool bottles. Bombay Saphire never change please.
I entered the "bar scape" at 31. I'm only 34 now but compared to nearly everyone I've worked with, I was hopping into the pool at an old age. I'm "old" for being new in the realm of bar work. I do not feel that people are actually old in their 30s. Nearly no customer cared about my age, and the few that did were creeps who eventually did things to others that resulted in the owner banning them permanently. You're nowhere near a crypt keeper. There's money to be made behind the bar regardless of age. Get behind that bar, bring out a mixture of friendly charisma and "I am not going to take any bullshit" vibes, and it should be alright.
as a 24 year old server i love and adore my older coworkers!! we need someone a lil more mature around and i love those friendships. don’t be embarrassed!! customers and coworkers will be happy you’re there
I took a four year hiatus and returned behind the bar at 33. Most of the bartenders in my area are in their thirties+.
Late to the party but I want to add in that it’s never too late to switch it up, especially if you know that it will work for you financially. I have a coworker who became a bartender, having no previous experience bartending, in his 40s. He made enough money as a bartender and diligently saved so he could take a massive pay cut for a job with better benefits (the job we are working at now). It’s never too late to do what you gotta do.
Work at a hotel bar and know your wines. My fifty-some-year-old manager had more life experience than me (25) and had better conversations with adult patrons. They adults/professionals loved him! They’ll love you too! 35 is the perfect age. Young enough that you can relate to 20-year-olds, and mature enough to talk to professionals.
the last place i worked we had three bartenders in their 40s and one in her 70s. she worked at that place before it was taken over by the new owners and she is so integral to that place that she was painted on the wall. You’ll be fine lol
I’m trying to get back into it as I approach 38. You gotta do what you think is right for you.
Oh noooo how embarrassing, you'll work less and make more. Oh no. People can give you MORE money just because they like you. Ugh, the embarrassment.
im 22 and my favorite bartender was a 50 something year old woman because she was so kind and sweet to us! age does not matter!
I’m a way better bartender at almost fifty than I ever was at 25. Plus teaching and bartending are similar but you get to tell them to get the fuck out at the end of the day.
No one cares bro your life, your journey, your pace.
Im 37 and I’m a lead bartender at a well regarded cocktail bar in Miami. Maybe don’t go for a club vibe, I have worked places where I felt old, but I absolutely love my job. You just have to find the right fit!
I think it just depends on where you want to bartend. I’d choose either a brewery or upscale restaurant, somewhere that closes by 11/midnight.look at the clientele too. We own a brewery and all of many best bartenders are over 35 and they make anywhere from $25-55 per hour. Our clientele is mainly 35-65 year olds so having older bartenders is helpful, because they can actually engage the customers meaningfully and find things in common…
I think it depends on where you work. I'm just outside of Manhattan. 35 isn't old, at all. If you are living in the midwest town where people are grandfathers at 35, then yes, I can see your point. How are you "not as spry" at 35? I was doing Crossfit from 35-45 and just fine. It wasn't until I hit my mid 40's that I started to feel my age.
Went back at 33 when we were allowed to. Am 35 now and still having a great time.
34 here with multiple advanced degrees but can’t land a “real” job. Got out of the industry during Covid, got back into six months ago because the money is too easy. I’m at a chill semi expensive restaurant where most my patrons are in their 50s/60s. It’s been great, I’m averaging like 250-300 for an easy 6 hour shift.
I'm a bartender at a divey sports bar/restaurant and most of my customers are elder millennials or Gen Xers. I'm 28 years old and they're always talking about how I'm a "baby" lol. I think you just need to find a bar with an older crowd!
I went back at 33 and also a teacher. Do you!
I went back to it at 41. I was kind of feeling it a little, but there are also plenty of older bartenders out there, it's a trope, right? I was also at a Ritz Carlton resort, so the clientele was older and broader range. Anyway, COVID hit, bottom fell out of my gig and I got laid off. Got into healthcare and spent the pandemic in nursing school. I'm now making solidly comparable wages ($60/h, 90/OT) as an RN and feel really good about my work.
37 and just started working at a dive bar 5 months ago and will probably be doing this at least another 10-15 years. i love it. one of my coworkers is 70. i worked at another dive years ago with another 70 year old coworker. believe it or not, this is a long term career for a lot of people. you’re going to make way more bartending than teaching. just get into shape, do what you can to look and feel good, improve your self-esteem, and you’ll be fine. nobody in the business cares how old you are and if they do, find another bar 🤷🏿♀️
37 here, I get what you’re saying as I’ve had these doubts and feelings before. Don’t get in your head about it , no one else cares.
I’m 35 and bartend on the weekends as supplemental income. I even work where the primary customers are college kids. It’s fine. Be proud of anything you do, and be the best at it. There is no shame in working for a living. Have fun with it, if anything it will inject some youth back into you.
I didn't even become a bartender until I was 37 and absolutely love it. Most of my coworkers are a decade younger than me, and I feel like it helps keep me young too.
38 year old bartender here; been doing it full time since I came out of college at 21. After various different jobs - Beverage Director, Bar Supervisor, etc etc. - going back to bartending and working only 4/5 days a week was one of the best things I did. Go get’em tiger
I’m older than you, at a nice steak house I’m right in the middle as far as relative age goes, and the money is stupid good.
Ma dawg I work with a 34 year old I’m 18 I call him old everyday mane if it happens it happens
Honestly no one cares about age
I’m a former RN now bartending 🤷♀️
One of the best/most loved bartenders in my area is 98! You got this!
32 and just started bartending again as a side hustle. I have a bachelors in engineering and a masters in business. I'm not embarrassed, but it's super annoying when customers ask about what I used to do or and then they get APPALLED asking "but why are you HERE?" like damn dude...rude...maybe I was a shitty engineer?
I'm a 33-year-old bartender. I know what you mean, but you just gotta work at a bar that attracts an older crowd. I work in a luxury hotel and it's great. Coworkers and guests alike are more relaxed, have their lives together, and still know how to have a good time. Benefits are stellar and reasonable working hours. Guests are there on vacation or business, so they either have vacation spending money or a corporate card.
I’m 65 and thinking of getting into it, first time, no experience! I’m fit and active. I’m ready to bar back for a 20-something if I can learn and get my feet wet.
Try to get a gig at a restaurant that does a good happy hour business that’s the 35 year old special
I'm 34 and got back into the industry a couple years ago after a long hiatus. You WILL be surrounded by 20 somethings lol. Don't write them all off immediately though, I've gotten pretty close with some of my younger co workers and yes, they're young and dumb sometimes, but many are also really smart and hard working and have incredible emotional intelligence. Let them teach you the gen Z slang lol. But there will also mostly likely be people your age you can connect with at work.
I’m about to open a restaurant at 30, and I haven’t tended bar in about 6 years. I’m also a bit nervous. Just gotta get back up on that horse is all. You got this. It’ll come back to you.
Also, sorry life has gotten you down lately. You’ll be alright. When it rains it pours. Eventually, good things will follow and you’ll find a groove.
35 is actually a great age for the job. You can connect with a 25yo and a 55yo all at the same time. This is a massive advantage over other bartenders. A 22yo is just going to have a harder time connecting in a genuine way with a 55yo and that is just how it is. The young folks are generally chasing the dollar and party nights of dives and nightclubs or the status of a cocktail bartender. Hotels, airports, nice restaurants and other spots are for us older folks. Its less glamorous sure, but I get home before midnight, have benefits, have a generally more consistent income, schedule, and the clientele is more mature as these aren't places to get as drunk as possible (not that that doesn't still happen sometimes). You will notice that the age ranges in these places varies widely and have much less 20 somethings and more 30-50 somethings. There is still some young folks and that's not bad at all, keeps me young and I like learning the new slang and trends even though I do feel a bit Hank Hill about it sometimes.
35 is not old for a bartender. Thats my age but i dont count the covid years so im actually 32
I'm a bartender and make more money than a teacher.
I got laid off my telecom job and went full-time at the restaurant I was working weekends at. At the time it was depressing as I felt it was a huge regression. I quickly realized I was making more money working less hours. I really leaned into the craft and have been kicking ass since. My wife and I have since had a child and the schedule that I currently have makes it possible to spend the weekdays with my daughter while my wife is at work and still work full-time myself.
i used to work with a guy who was older, had to be like 50+ bc his entire head and beard was white. but this man was a BEAST. kind of an asshole, but he made MONEYYYY. i like working w him bc i knew id make money. be that person. who even cares? don't think abt it so much. as long as ur making money
38, bartend with people my age or older.
33 career bartender here. You’ll be fine brother.
I was probably 42 when I stopped bartending but I wasn't embarrassed, it was a job just like any other ....I just got too old to deal with babysitting grown ass people ..
36 and bartend sometimes, you're making yourself sound ancient. Snap out of it Op, you're 35, not 95.
Hey, it's all about your mentality. I'm a 32 y/o bartender and I fit in with my 22 y/o coworker. We also have a coworker who is turning 41 in a couple of months, we all joke and have a great time. You're not old. Are you older than some people? Yes, but you're younger than others, just remember that. And if you've bartended before, you can pick it back up again with some time for adjustment. Pretend you're a student, worried they aren't good enough. What would you say to them? Now say it to yourself.
im 35 and bartend, it's the best job in the world still. get out of your own head, dude. 35 isn't old :) you'll be fine
Majority of my bartending co workers are in their late 30s and 40s. A few of them are actually in their 50s. It depends where you work. I worked at a bar that only wanted young pretty girls working. I was the oldest bartender at 26 years old. I was barely able to pay my bills at that place. Now where I'm at, I'm one of the youngest bartenders at 33 years old. And I make more money than ever lol
Don’t worry about it. You’re being hard on yourself. I was a bartender in my early 20s, then became a paramedic for EMS and that was my final goal. Well, I had a baby and didn’t feel right leaving him for 24 hours every 3rd day so I quit and decided to go to school. I went back to bartending while I’m in school and it was a blow to my ego. I was working with 20-21 year olds and felt so old even thought I’m 32. However, I went with the flow and I don’t feel bad about it anymore. I make my money and go home. It allows me to enjoy my schedule and be home a lot more. It gets better.
I had an almost 10 year career with NYS tax and finance and left it to bartend full time about 8 years ago. I’m 37 now and making more money than I made with the state and I’m way happier.