Discover the Best Mixology Classes in Los Angeles
Mixology is an exciting practice that spans centuries and continents. It encompasses a rich history of cocktail-making and drinking traditions, as well as the social and artistic aspects of the craft. If you’re hoping to learn the art of mixology, Los Angeles is a great place to start. Below, you can learn more about some local in-person mixology classes, as well as alternative methods to acquire this fascinating and impressive skill.
Why You Should Learn Mixology in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is a bustling city with thrilling nightlife and a thriving cocktail scene, making it an ideal place to learn mixology and practice those new skills. With a vast array of cocktail bars, speakeasies, and critically-acclaimed restaurants, Los Angeles has a diverse mix of venues that serve up some of the best cocktails in the United States. This makes it an exciting place for mixologists and cocktail enthusiasts to explore and experiment with new ingredients, techniques, and flavor profiles.
One of the reasons Los Angeles is a fantastic city to learn mixology is its unique blend of cultures and cuisines. The city's diverse population has contributed to a range of flavors and ingredients, inspiring mixologists to incorporate exotic ingredients into their cocktails. From Mexican-inspired margaritas to Asian-infused drinks, Los Angeles has a wealth of inspiration for mixologists to draw from and create unique flavor profiles.
Los Angeles also has many mixology classes, workshops, and events where aspiring mixologists can learn from some of the city's top professionals. These classes range from beginner to advanced levels and offer hands-on instruction on how to craft cocktails from scratch. The city also hosts several cocktail festivals and competitions, giving mixologists a chance to showcase their skills and network with other professionals in the industry.
In-Person Mixology Classes in Los Angeles
Students craving a hands-on mixology experience in Los Angeles have plenty of options to choose from. Maker’s Mess has several in-person learning opportunities for aspiring mixologists. They offer a Classic Cocktails 101 class for $75 and a Mixology 101 class for $85, both of which are ideal for beginners. These courses cover the basics of shaken and stirred cocktails and industry tips on how to keep your home bar stocked so you can serve impressive drinks to your friends.
Maker’s Mess also offers a class called Craft Cocktails from the Kitchen Cabinet. As the name suggests, this course focuses on creating exciting drinks from ingredients commonly found at home. Some of the topics include how to balance sweet and sour flavors, when to shake and when to stir, and tips for proper drink ordering at bars and restaurants.
For students interested in cooking and mixology, The Mighty Irish course from BLVD Kitchen is an excellent option. Students will gather with a chef and a mixologist to learn more about Irish cooking and drinking traditions. The menu for the class includes the following dishes: Irish Cheddar Rarebit, Braised Prime Irish Stew, Colcannon, and Chocolate Guinness Cake with Bailey’s Frosting. Students will also enjoy a tasting of a variety of Irish whiskies.
The King’s Roost is located in the heart of Los Angeles on Sunset Blvd. The school offers a Cocktail Mixology class that is suitable for all skill levels. Taught by a professional chef, students will learn to make a handful of cocktails in this two-hour course.
Virtual Mixology Classes
If you’re unable to attend an in-person class or you’re interested in different topics, you can check out some online mixology classes instead. Online classes allow you to learn from the comfort of your home without commuting to a physical location. This saves both time and money and makes it easier to fit learning into a busy schedule. Online classes often feature experts in mixology from around the world, providing learners with the opportunity to learn from the best of the best. However, online classes are typically less interactive than in-person courses, particularly pre-recorded classes. Live online classes can provide interaction through chat, but it may not be as effective as the interaction that takes place in person.
There are plenty of fun options to learn mixology online. For $34.50 per person, students can attend a Virtual Cocktails: Tequila 101 course through Chopping Block Lincoln Square. This class covers the history of tequila and explains the many differences between the various types of tequila. Students will combine ingredients like blood orange, lime, and Aperol to create classic beverages. They will even learn how to select the best glassware for their drinks.
Mixology can be a fun hobby for those who don’t drink alcohol too. Food Craft offers a Cocktail & Mocktail class to virtual students. Here, participants learn about classic Hawaiian ingredients and combine them to make cocktails and alcohol-free drinks. Some of the recipes include exotic flavors like ginger beer, mangoes, chili salt, and dehydrated citrus rinds. By the end of the class, students will be able to make a Spiced Hamana Cocktail, an Aloha O'e Cocktail, and a Hula Lemonade Mocktail.
If you’re eager to learn something different, the Tipsy Bubble Tea class from Food Craft might be just the thing. Students will learn plenty of interesting facts about the history of bubble tea and will also be able to make their own tapioca pearls. This class includes a kit that contains specialty ingredients like matcha powder, passion fruit syrup, and the alcohol required to make each beverage. Students are expected to have basic cooking supplies on-hand (wooden spoon, strainer, ice) before the beginning of class.
Private Group Mixology Classes in Los Angeles
A private mixology class in Los Angeles can provide a relaxed and enjoyable setting for coworkers or friends to socialize and catch up with each other. Participants can chat, laugh, and share stories while enjoying delicious cocktails. In these classes, participants can learn new techniques, tips, and tricks for making cocktails from a professional mixologist. These experiences can also be a fun and unique way to celebrate a special occasion, such as a birthday, anniversary, or promotion. Even better, participants can toast the occasion with their delicious cocktails.
CourseHorse has several private online mixology classes that are sure to cater to a variety of group needs and interests. As a bonus, the registration fee includes a package of ingredients that will be shipped to each participant prior to their class. For those wanting an introductory experience that would please a large crowd, the Virtual Mixology Workshop is worth looking into. The recipes covered include a mint julep, an Old Fashioned, and a twist on a classic–a ginger lime margarita.
CourseHorse also offers a Virtual Pride Mixology class, where the materials specifically focus on LGBTQ businesses. For those who love all things fizzy, there is also a Virtual Sparkling Cocktails class for small groups. Here, students will learn some fun facts about sparkling wine, as well as three unique beverages: A French 75, an Air Mail (rum with lime and honey), and a sparkling cocktail with blackberry and nectarine flavors.
Booking an experience with CourseHorse offers numerous benefits to customers. A confirmation will be sent to your email within 24 hours, and you’ll never be charged a booking fee. Groups can also add or remove members from their group after booking, so there’s no need to worry about one person’s last-minute schedule changes impacting the entire group's experience.