

For some bars, special shifts or events may require their bar backs to come in early or stay late.


In addition, they often work a few days during the week as well as nights and weekends. The average bar back works for 4-8 hours each shift, though this varies depending on the specific establishment. How many hours does a typical bar back work per shift? To do so legally though, there are usually some local regulations in place that bar backs must follow. However, if they are of legal drinking or serving age and meet the requirements to bartend where they live, then they can usually pour a draft beer or open a bottle. Unlike a bartender's job, bar backs typically don't mix drinks. Track opening or closing liquor bottles inventory.Take out the trash or recycling throughout the shift.Store all liquor and beer deliveries that arrived during the day.Before tomorrow night's shift, ensure the bar is prepared by stocking all containers and juicing citrus.Wipe down all countertops, bar station, and service area.Return all supplies back to their designated storage areas.Run empty glasses and dishes back into the dishwashing area.Clean up any spills or messes that may have been left behind during service.After service ends, bar backs usually assist with and/or are responsible for the following tasks:īar back duties and responsibilities after service Collect glasses that have been emptied from the barĬlosing duties are very important to ensure that the bar is ready for the next day.Keep the area clean by taking out the trash or recycling.Assist with inputting orders into the POS system as required.Wipe down all surfaces, especially the bar area.Be sure to let security know about any potential dangers, like if there is a line forming outside of the venue or if someone appears to be too intoxicated.Assist in making drink orders when needed or fulfilling customer food orders.Helps clean up drink spills and broken glass.Clean drinking glasses and dirty dishes.Clean tables and remove finished drinks and plates from guests.The following is an overview of common bar back duties, tasks, and responsibilities undertaken at various times throughout the day.Īlthough they may not be as visible as the bartenders or servers, bar backs are essential to a well-running restaurant or bar.īar back duties and responsibilities during service: What does a Bar back do on a day-to-day basis?Ī bar back's responsibilities are to support bartenders before, during, and after service. This includes opening and closing duties. Since the hospitality industry is a fast-paced environment, a bar manager and all staff members in the bar have to depend on each other heavily to keep things moving efficiently. Bartenders are responsible for making drinks and providing customer service while barbacks help to restock supplies, clean glassware, and perform other duties related to beverage preparation. In high-volume bars, it's not uncommon to have multiple bar backs working alongside the bartending team. Without them, bartenders would have a significantly harder time serving customers efficiently and keeping the bar fully stocked. Not only do they make an excellent bartending experience for customers, but they also provide positive customer service. Although they may not be as visible as some other positions in a bar setting, bar backs are crucial for a bar's success. An efficient bar back is crucial to every bartender in order to help them maintain an organized and functioning great bar environment.
