StartenderHow to Become a Bartender in Los Angeles
No experience needed to start. Here’s the real path to your first shift in LA — and how to get discovered once you’re ready.
The fast path
- Learn the basics. Take a short bartending course or start as a barback in a busy LA bar — both teach you the craft fast.
- Get certified. Grab your alcohol-service certification (TIPS or your local equivalent). Quick, cheap, and venues expect it.
- Get real reps. Work the volume — speed and consistency behind a real bar are what get you hired and tipped.
- Get discovered. Build a profile that shows your work and personality so LA venues find and book you directly.
Where to start in LA
These are the busiest nightlife pockets — where the shifts (and the tips) are:
- Hollywood & West Hollywood
- Downtown LA
- Venice & Santa Monica
- Silver Lake & Echo Park
- Koreatown
- the Arts District
28 bartender gigs open right now in LA
Real openings at real venues, newest first. Applying takes one tap in the app — your STARCARD goes straight to the venue.
Refined restaurant seeking a skilled bartender to deliver genuine hospitality. The ideal candidate embodies thoughtful execution and a warm demeanor. Exceptional drink-making skills are a must.
Caviar Bar by Cafe Stella seeks a skilled bartender to deliver precision service in an intimate twelve-seat setting. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented and technique-driven. A spirits-led bar with a focus on caviar pairings demands a high level of expertise.
Upscale hostel brand Freehand Los Angeles seeks a skilled bartender to join its team. The ideal candidate is charismatic and community-driven. Competitive opportunity in a trendy, award-winning food and beverage setting.
Redbird and Vibiana in Downtown Los Angeles seeks experienced Event Bartenders for private events. The ideal candidate has a strong background in high-volume service and attention to detail. Events range from 40 to 600 guests.
Prose Kitchen & Bar in Woodland Hills seeks a collaborative bartender to help launch its craft cocktail program. The ideal candidate is experienced and passionate about creativity. A strong team player is needed to shape a top-notch program.
Camélia, a Japanese-French bistro, seeks a skilled lead bartender with knowledge of Japanese spirits. The ideal candidate is a natural leader with a team-oriented mindset. This role oversees bar service and develops seasonal cocktail menus.
Upscale Asian-American restaurant seeks a skilled bartender to join its team. The ideal candidate is charismatic and knowledgeable about craft cocktails. Super Peach by Momofuku offers a unique and dynamic work environment.
LYNX is a high-end bar and restaurant seeking a skilled bartender to join their team. The ideal candidate is organized, clean, and calm under pressure. This role offers ample learning opportunities and top-notch equipment.
The Wilkes Restaurant & Bar in Los Angeles seeks a skilled bartender to provide top-notch service and craft consistent drinks. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented and able to maintain a clean environment. Elevated comfort food classics are served in an upscale setting.
XUNTOS seeks a charismatic bartender with a passion for wine and craft cocktails. The ideal candidate is a team player with enthusiastic energy and welcoming hospitality. Strong knowledge of beverages is required to guide guests through the menu.
Upscale venue seeks charismatic bartenders who deliver exceptional service. First-class treatment of guests is a must. Top-notch skills and hospitality mindset required.
Bartender job at Alibi room in Los Angeles.
Bartender job at Joint Venture Restaurant Group in Los Angeles.
Bartender job at Jon & Vinny's in Los Angeles.
Bartender job at Super Peach by Momofuku in Los Angeles.
Bartender job at Catch in Los Angeles.
Bartender job at Little Luck (Opening Summer 2026) in Los Angeles.
Upscale bar seeking a bartender with deep spirits and cocktail knowledge who can execute flawlessly under pressure. You'll craft exceptional drinks for discerning guests while delivering the precision service this environment demands.
Bartender job at Alphabet (Coming Soon to The Palisades) in Los Angeles.
Bartender job at The Bird Streets Club in Los Angeles.
Bartender job at Troubadour in Los Angeles.
Bartender job at Little Luck (Opening Summer 2026) in Los Angeles.
What you’ll make
LA spreads its nightlife across neighborhoods, so the best money follows the busiest rooms — Hollywood clubs, WeHo bars and event work. Plan around roughly $200–$420 on a strong night with tips.
Get discovered
Once you’re ready, Startender gets you in front of the venues actually hiring. It’s a private, invite-only network where Los Angeles bars and clubs find and book bartenders directly — free for talent. Build a profile that works like a portfolio and get found.
There are 28 bartender gigs open in LA right now — get discovered for them.
FAQ
Startender — the private network for nightlife pros. Bartender jobs in LA →