Barkeep: The Guide to Becoming a Professional Bartender has become a mainstay in bartending education since it was first published in 2016. Now, the iconic volume is joined by a second edition, with new updates and insights from author and bar industry veteran Danilo Božović. Barkeep: The Art of Mixology, Bar & Cocktails will feature the same deep dives into technique and history that made the first volume so popular, delving into the world of mixology, new craft techniques, classic and contemporary recipes, and easy to make ingredients at home.
Božović has been a bartender at some of the country’s most awarded bars for over two decades. His work as a beverage consultant has taken him around the world, where he developed a deep knowledge of international spirits and global trends. He is currently managing partner at the Miami outpost of Employees Only, and co-founder of Swizzle Rum Bar & Drinkery, a speakeasy-style haunt on South Beach that showcases tropical beverages and a 150+ bottle rum collection. Published in 2016 with co-author Andrija Ristić, the first edition of Barkeep was an offshoot of the pair’s work at Belgrade Bartending Academy. It quickly became a go-to, with robust sections on classic training and the fundamentals of bartending accentuated with information on the tradition and history of the craft.
Božović flew solo writing the second edition of Barkeep, and the subtitle gives readers an idea of its expanded purview. Barkeep: The Art of Mixology, Bar & Cocktails goes beyond must-have industry knowledge and empowers aficionados and cocktail enthusiasts to up their game. Professional bartenders, owners, and barbacks will still find plenty of tips to employ in their craft, while connoisseurs will enjoy the added information on everything from new spirits and tiki drinks to reflections on Božović’s time behind the bar, and his thoughts on the philosophy and storied history of cocktail bartending.
“It was important for me to go into the heart of our craft, and delve into the culture and the smallest details that make our profession a true art form,” says Božović. “A grounding in this knowledge is what takes bartending from an everyday trade to an art form.”
Barkeep’s second edition equips today’s bartender with the most up-to-date knowledge and laser-focused insight into the trade.
“As a young bartender it wasn’t the easiest to obtain detailed knowledge and information. The amount of books offered were minimal to none, and it was very hard to find an experienced barkeep that would mentor an up-and-comer,” says Božović. “This book has everything I wanted when I was starting out in the industry, but it was also written for everyone.”
Barkeep: The Art of Mixology, Bar & Cocktails is available for purchase online via Amazon. The soft cover is $30.29 while the hard cover is $35.
