The Bartender's Black Book: 2,700 New and Classic Recipes : Book Review

"The Bartender's Black Book" by Stephen Kittredge Cunningham is an essential guide that should be in the hands of every bartender. Whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned professional, this comprehensive book covers everything you need to know about cocktails and mixology.

One of the standout features of this book is its extensive collection of drink recipes. Cunningham provides detailed instructions for hundreds of cocktails, ranging from the classics like the Martini and Old Fashioned, to more modern creations. Each recipe is explained with clarity and simplicity, ensuring that even the most inexperienced bartender can follow along.

But this book goes beyond just drink recipes. Cunningham dives into the world of mixology, offering insights into the history and cultural significance of various drinks. This adds depth to your bartending knowledge and gives you a greater appreciation for the craft. Additionally, he includes tips on garnishing, glassware selection, and presentation, helping you create visually stunning and delicious drinks.

In addition to mixology, "The Bartender's Black Book" covers other important aspects of bartending. Cunningham includes sections on bar setup and management, providing advice on essential tools, maintaining a clean bar, and managing customer interactions. These practical tips ensure that you not only have the knowledge to make great drinks, but also the skills to provide exceptional service.

Cunningham's passion for mixology shines through in his writing. His love for the craft is evident and contagious, making this book an engaging and enjoyable read. The well-organized format and clear instructions make it easy to navigate and reference while working behind the bar.

What are readers saying?

"The Bartender's Black Book" written by Stephen Kittredge Cunningham has received a variety of reviews, showcasing a range of opinions from readers. Numerous individuals found the book to be a valuable resource for bartenders due to its comprehensive collection of recipes. They praised the book for its easy-to-follow instructions and the wide variety of drinks it included. These readers also appreciated how the book served as a helpful reference for both professionals and amateurs in the bartending field.

Conversely, some readers expressed dissatisfaction with the book, citing a lack of originality and unique content. They felt that the recipes provided could be found in any basic bartending guide and were disappointed by the absence of innovative and groundbreaking ideas. Additionally, some reviewers found the book repetitive and lacking creativity in its recipes.

One aspect of the book that divided opinions was its organization. Some praised its clear and logical structure, which facilitated easy navigation and recipe retrieval. However, others found the layout confusing and believed it could have been better organized and categorized.

Regarding the writing style, reactions were mixed. Some readers appreciated the author's concise and straightforward language, which made the recipes easy to understand and follow. Nonetheless, a few reviewers expressed a desire for more excitement and engagement in the writing, as the book read more like a technical manual than an enjoyable read.

Overall, the reception of "The Bartender's Black Book" by Stephen Kittredge Cunningham was divided. While some readers found it to be a valuable reference with a wide range of recipes, others felt it lacked originality and creativity. The organization of the book and the writing style also received mixed reviews. Ultimately, the opinion of the book seemed to depend on the individual reader's specific needs and expectations.

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