We all know that sometimes truth is stranger than fiction… case in point: bartending robots that interpret body language! Drones delivering drinks at Vegas hotspots! But, whether you’re planning a vacation getaway or just some downtime at home in the coming months, the relaxed summer months are a great time to curl up with a good book or movie – fiction or non-fiction.
Instead of browsing the usual bestsellers list, why not pick up one of the many great books or movies targeted to bartenders and other hospitality professionals? Whether you’re looking for a good book to explain the basics, insight into the industry from bar gurus, or just a light and fun fiction story with a bar as the backdrop, there’s something out there for everyone! Here are some suggestions from TAM® of Nevada to help get you started:
Hey Bartender – A movie directed by Doug Tirola and featuring a number of the world’s renowned bartenders and cocktail drinkers. Hey Bartender is a love story to the cocktail and the people who make them. The film gives insider access to the most exclusive bars in New York chronicling the story of the comeback of the cocktail and the rebirth of the bartender. Also features commentary from some of New York City’s best cocktail hosts including Graydon Carter, Danny Meyer and Amy Sacco.
The Drunken Botanist by Amy Stewart – Not just a recipe collection, this book educates about the herbs, flowers, trees, fruits, and fungi that make up many alcoholic beverages: beer, wine, gin, sake, and more. Additionally, look for tips and tricks of the trade, gardening tips, and even how to brine your own olives. Love the visual component of a bartending book? Don’t worry, you’ll still get cocktail photographs and infusion recipes.
The Joy of Mixology: The Consummate Guide to the Bartender’s Craft by Gary Regan – A must-read guide to bartending and mixology by a fantastic author. Gary Regan’s book is a classic for any bar professional and will give insight and tips on not only how to memorize drink recipes, but begin creating your own. With insight into cocktail history, advice on bar etiquette and insights into his own experiences in the industry, this is a fun and entertaining read. If you’re impressed with this book, you should also pick up Regan’s newest follow-up book, Gaz Regan’s 101 Best New Cocktails Volume III.
Looking for even more suggestions on good reads for bar professionals? Check out Eater’s suggestions in the article, “The Best Cocktail Books: Bartenders Pick Their Favorites.”
Now it’s your turn. What are you reading or watching this summer?
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