Andrei combines academic knowledge with over 10 years of practical experience to help job seekers navigate the challenges of resumes, interviews, and career growth. Through the Novorésumé Career Blog, he offers actionable advice to simplify and ace the job search process.
Updated on 01/14/2026
From mixing mocktails in your kitchen to dreaming of the perfect pour behind a bustling bar, you've always been fascinated by the art of bartending.
Now, you’re finally making a living out of your passion and you’re ready to land your next gig.
There’s only one problem — writing that perfect bartender cover letter feels trickier than making a layered cocktail.
That blank page, waiting for the right mix of words that show your experience and skills, feels a tad intimidating, doesn't it?
No worries!
In this article, we're going to show you how to write an attention-grabbing bartender cover letter:
Here’s what we’ll cover:
A Great Bartender Cover Letter Example
5 Steps to Writing the Best Bartender Cover Letter
3 Bartender Cover Letter Tips
Ready to serve it up? Let's get shaking!
Bartender Cover Letter Example
5 Steps for the Perfect Bartender Cover Letter
You've just had a glimpse of a job-winning cover letter – pretty impressive, right? Now, it's your turn to create your own.
Just follow these steps:
#1. Put Contact Information in the Header
You should always kick off your bartender cover letter with your contact details. Pop this in the header, just as you would on your resume.
Here's the breakdown:
First and Last Name. Put your complete name right at the top.
Job Title. Align the title on your cover letter with the specific role you're aiming for. Hiring managers likely juggle many applications for various roles, so clarity on your target role smooths things out for everyone.
Email Address. Stick to an email that's straightforward and looks professional. Remember, that funky email from your teenage years isn’t suitable. So, while "partybartom@coolmail.com" might not be the best choice, "tom.bartender@email.com" is a better bet.
Phone Number. Ensure the number is correct to prevent missed connections. And if you're eyeing a gig overseas, pop in the dial code in front of your number.
Location. Typically, just your city and country or state will do. If you’re eyeing a remote role or considering a move, mention that on your resume.
Relevant links (Optional). Think about including links to any professional sites or platforms, like your LinkedIn or a personal portfolio.
Once your contact info is squared away, it's time for the hiring manager’s data.
Here's what to jot down:
Bar Name: Write down the place you want to work at.
Hiring Manager’s Name: Try to find out the person in charge of hiring. You can look at the job ad, the place's website, or their LinkedIn profile.
Hiring Manager’s Role: If you know their job title, like if they're the Bar Owner, use that instead of just saying "Hiring Manager."
Location: Mention the city and state or country, especially if the place has more than one location. If you want to be very specific, you can add the street address.
Email Address (Optional): If you find the email of the person in charge of hiring, you can include it.
Date of Writing (Optional): You can add the date you wrote the cover letter to make it look complete.
How you address the hiring manager in your cover letter can set the tone right away. It's all about paying attention to the small stuff.
First, do some research. Look at the job ad, check out the company's website, or look them up on LinkedIn. What you're trying to do is find out who's in charge of hiring bartenders. You might even find their name and email.
When you write to them, be professional - but steer away from the old-fashioned “To Whom It May Concern.” Using "Ms." or "Mr." with their last name is good. But if you're not sure about their gender or if they're married, just use their full name. Here's an example of how to do it:
Example Addressing Hiring Manager:
Dear Mr. Martinez,
Dear Carlos Martinez,
Hit a wall in your search for the hiring manager or the chief of the bartender crew? No sweat.
Generalize your greeting by directing it to the relevant team or the establishment:
Example Addressing Establishment:
Dear Hiring Team
Dear Food and Beverage Department
Dear Recruitment Team
Dear Bar Manager
#3. Write an Eye-Catching Opening Statement
Hiring managers often just skim through a bartender's application before deciding to read more.
That's why you need to grab their attention from the get-go with your opening paragraph.
Begin by officially introducing yourself and why you're interested in the bartender job. Being excited about working at that bar or the specific role can make them want to know more about you.
If you've been a bartender for a while, you could start your letter by mentioning an achievement you are proud of or a relevant skill.
If you’re an entry-level bartender, doing some research on the bar helps. The more you know about it, the better you can show how you'd fit in. This lets them see that you really care about this job and not just any job.
Just remember - keep it short and to the point. Your goal is to get the hiring manager interested and wanting to read more about you.
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Quick Tip
Check out our cover letter examples to get an even better idea of what your cover letter should look like.
#4. Use the Cover Letter Body for the Details
The body of your bartender cover letter is where you really get to explain why you're good for the job.
Don't just repeat what's on your bartender resume. Use this chance to talk about your skills in mixology, how good you are with customers or any special training you have. Basically, elaborate on all the things you've done that show you're great for the job.
In addition, look at what the place is asking for in their job ad. If they want someone who knows how to make special drinks, mention how you're good at that. If it's a busy place during sports games, talk about how you thrive under a high-pressure environment.
Knowing a bit about the bar helps. If you've been there before or heard good things about their drinks, say so. It shows you want this job, not just any job.
And remember, show how excited you are for the job and what you can bring to their bar with what you can do.
💡
Quick Tip
While you’re at it, make sure to avoid any of these common cover letter mistakes! They could cost you your chance at landing the job.
#5. Wrap It Up and Sign It
Wrapping up your cover letter is like serving the perfect cocktail finish.
It's essential to ensure that the hiring manager remembers you in a positive light and feels compelled to call you for an interview.
Your closing paragraph should reaffirm why you're not just any bartender, but the one they've been searching for. Summarize the unique skills or experiences that set you apart from the competition.
After you've summarized your strongest points, it's time for a call to action. Encourage the hiring manager to reach out and discuss how you can help them and fit in the role.
I'd love the chance to further discuss how my mixology skills can elevate your bar's offerings. Please feel free to reach out via the contact details provided. I eagerly await the opportunity to delve deeper into how I can contribute.
Cheers,
Alex Smith
If "Cheers" doesn't quite feel right for you, other options to consider include:
Warm regards,
Best,
Appreciatively,
Thank you for your time and attention,
3 Essential Bartender Cover Letter Tips
Now that you've got the basics down, it's time to shake things up! Let's dive into some essential cover letter tips tailored just for bartenders.
#1. Match Your Resume
When looking for a bartender job, it's important to present yourself well.
Your cover letter should match your resume so it looks neat and well-organized.
Put your contact info where it's easy to see and use the same fonts and sizes throughout. Make sure everything fits nicely on one page by setting the right margins and line spacing.
This will show the hiring manager that you’re professional, attentive to detail, and steps about the job.
Along with our free resume builder, you can use them to create the perfect bartender application.
Each template is carefully crafted with the help of global hiring professionals, so they meet all industry standards while also looking great.
Just pick one, match it with your resume, and go get that bartending gig!
#2. Be Enthusiastic
Enthusiasm can make a world of difference in your cover letter.
When applying for a bartender position, showcasing your genuine passion for the industry tells hiring managers you're not just looking for any job; you truly care about this one.
However, while it's great to express excitement, avoid overdoing it with flattery. Your aim should be to display a positive attitude, confidence in your skills, and a sincere eagerness to join the team.
Just remember: there's a fine line between being enthusiastic and overly confident. Always aim to strike the right balance.
#3. Be Formal
Maintain a sense of formality in your bartender cover letter. Being professional in your tone and language shows potential employers that you take the role seriously.
It creates a positive first impression and suggests you're ready to handle the responsibilities of the job with care and professionalism.
Key Takeaways
That's the basics for writing a bartender cover letter!
By now, we’re convinced that you’re on the right track to landing that next bartending gig you’ve had your eyes on.
Before you move on, here's a quick summary:
In your bartender cover letter, consider mentioning where the hiring manager can see reviews or feedback from your previous work.
Try to address your cover letter directly to the hiring manager. Look at the job ad to figure out their name.
Use the main section of your cover letter to talk about your bartending experience and the skills that make you a great fit. Highlight the skills you have that are mentioned in the job ad.
Don't forget to put your name at the end of your cover letter. Before that, maybe ask the hiring manager to think about giving you a call or setting up an interview.
