Welcome to Shake, Sip, Serve, your one-stop shop for all things bartending.
I’m your host, KAD, and I’ve been slinging drinks and navigating the world of hospitality for over two decades. I’ve perfected my bartending skills, experimented with countless flavor combinations, and learning a thing or two about how to keep the party going behind the bar.
Whether you’re a seasoned bartender like me just looking for some fresh inspiration or a complete beginner who is eager to whip up impressive cocktails at home, Shake, Sip, Serve is here to be your guide. In the below blog, I’ll be sharing my knowledge and experience on everything from classic cocktails and innovative new creations to essential bartending techniques and industry secrets.
I’ll also be offering tips on stocking your home bar, mastering the art of presentation, and creating a memorable experience for your guests. So, grab your shaker, dust off your favorite glassware, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey into the world of bartending!
Let’s Shake, Sip, and Serve up something amazing together.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
Trends in Aussie Cocktail Culture
Australia has always been a melting pot of influences, from European wine culture to American bar service. But in 2025, our cocktail culture is carving out a distinctly Australian identity.
Sustainability First
Starting in the hospitality industry back when i did there was no mention of sustainability. We were using disposable glassware on most nights to prevent glass breakage and throwing away any food scraps from our citrus cut offs instead of reusing them.
- Bars are reducing waste: repurposing citrus peels into syrups, dehydrating garnishes, and cutting back on single-use plastics.
- Seasonal, locally sourced ingredients are replacing imported fruit and mixers.
- Venues like Sydney’s Maybe Sammy and Melbourne’s Black Pearl are leading the charge with eco-conscious menus.
Pro Tip: As a beginner bartender, practice making “closed-loop” cocktails drinks where every ingredient is used fully to minimise waste.
I have created a beginner-friendly cocktail book that you can find it here
Low- and No-Alcohol Drinks
- The “sober curious” movement is growing fast in Australia. Many customers want sophisticated drinks without the hangover.
- Expect to see more mocktails, low-ABV spritzes, kombucha blends, and CBD-infused options.
- RSA reminder: Even low-alcohol drinks count toward service limits — bartenders must still track standard drinks.
note: When I first served a no-alcohol Negroni, I thought it was niche. Now, I make just as many “Nogronis” as the real thing.
The Rise of Craft Spirits and Local Distilleries
Australia’s craft spirit scene is exploding, and bartenders are at the centre of it.
- Gin: Distilleries from Tasmania to WA are infusing native botanicals like lemon myrtle, wattleseed, and finger lime.
- Whiskey: Aussie single malts, especially from Tasmania, are winning global awards.
- Rum & Agave spirits: Queensland rum and Aussie-made agave spirits are carving out their place.
- Non-alcoholic spirits: Brands like Lyre’s (born in Australia) have put us on the global map for no-ABV innovation.
Bartender advantage: Customers love hearing about local products. Being able to recommend an Aussie gin or rum over an imported one not only supports local businesses but also builds your credibility.
How Technology Is Changing Hospitality
The bar industry is no stranger to innovation, but post-2020, technology has become part of the DNA.
QR Menus & Digital Ordering
- QR codes on tables allow guests to browse menus and order directly.
- Speeds up service during rushes, but bartenders still need to provide the human touch.
AI in Hospitality
- AI helps venues manage inventory, predict busy nights, and even suggest menu pairings.
- Some bars experiment with AI-designed cocktails (though human bartenders always bring the magic).
Social Media
- Instagram and TikTok now drive drink trends.
- A cocktail that looks stunning under neon light is often a best-seller.
- Bartenders need to think about presentation not just for taste, but for shareability.
Personal Note: I once served a glow-in-the-dark cocktail (thanks to tonic water + UV light) that went viral on Instagram. That one drink pulled more customers than any ad campaign could.
Why Bartending Is More Than “Just a Job”
For years, bartending was seen as a “stopgap” — something you did while studying or travelling. Today, it’s a respected career pathway in Australia.
- Creativity: Every cocktail is a chance to tell a story.
- Connection: You meet people from all walks of life — from locals to tourists to celebrities.
- Travel: Bartending skills open doors worldwide — festivals, cruise ships, luxury hotels.
- Events & Entrepreneurship: Many bartenders start mobile bars, consult on cocktail menus, or launch their own products.
- Resilience & Growth: The industry teaches multitasking, people skills, and responsibility — especially with RSA compliance.
note: Bartending gave me confidence, friendships, and opportunities I never imagined. It’s not “just a job” — it’s a lifestyle and a springboard to bigger things.
Takeaways
- The future of bartending in Australia is shaped by sustainability, local spirits, and low/no-alcohol trends.
- Craft distilleries are booming — Aussie spirits are gaining global recognition.
- Technology like QR menus, AI tools, and social media is reshaping how bars operate and how cocktails are marketed.
- Bartending is no longer “just a side job” — it’s a creative, global career with endless pathways.
The bartending community is a vibrant and supportive one, and I’m excited to build that community here on Shake, Sip, Serve.
I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, and experiences in the comments below.
What are you shaking up these days?
What topics would you like to see covered in future posts?
Let’s connect and continue the conversation!
Liquor & Gaming NSW: This website provides information on liquor licensing, responsible service of alcohol (RSA) training, and regulations for serving alcohol in NSW. It’s essential for anyone working in the hospitality industry in NSW. You can find it here: https://www.liquorandgaming.nsw.gov.au/