Bar None FAQs
Pricing
How much does a mobile bartender cost in NYC?
Pricing depends on guest count, event length, number of bartenders, and which package you choose. Pricing is calculated depending on your individual needs .Corporate Events and Weddings are quoted individually. Because we work on a dry hire model, you buy the alcohol separately at retail, which is typically far cheaper than a full-service package that marks liquor up.
What is included in the price?
Bartenders, all mixers and garnishes, bar tools and equipment, ice management, menu design, printed menus, setup, and full breakdown. Alcohol is the only thing you supply.
How far in advance should I book?
For peak season weekends and weddings, four to six months. For smaller weekday or off-season events, a few weeks is often enough. Holiday season books early. We are generally able to do smaller events on shorter notice
Do you require a deposit?
We typically require 50% at time of booking, and the remainder the day after the event.
What areas do you serve?
All five boroughs: Brooklyn, Manhattan,Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island. Also:Nassau County, Suffolk County,The Hamptons, Westchester, The Hudson Valley, The Catskills, and Northern New Jersey.
Do you charge for travel?
Travel within our core NYC service area is a (small) flat fee. For events outside it, any travel adjustment is stated clearly in your quote before you book. We never add it afterward.
How It Works
What does dry hire mean?
You buy the alcohol, we bring everything and everyone else. It saves money because you purchase at retail rather than at a service markup, and you keep whatever goes unopened.
How much alcohol should I buy?
We give you a specific list based on your guest count, event length, and drink menu. As a rough starting point, plan about one drink per guest per hour for the first two hours and somewhat less after. Buy on a returnable basis where possible. Costco is often the cheapest option and have a great return policy.
How many bartenders do I need?
Roughly one per 50 guests for a full cocktail bar, or one per 75 for beer and wine only. Below that you get lines. We will tell you honestly what your event needs.
Do you bring the actual bar?
Portable bar rental is available as an add-on. Otherwise we work with a counter, table, or existing bar at your venue.
Do you clean up afterward?
Yes, completely. Full breakdown is included in every package, including bussing empty glassware post-event.
Do you charge for additional hours?
Yes, day-of extensions will be charged at $100/hr per bartender.
Legal & Insurance
Do you have liability insurance?
Yes, we carry general liability and liquor liability coverage.
Can you provide a Certificate of Insurance for my venue?
Yes. We need at least a week and the exact additional-insured wording your building or venue requires.
Are your bartenders certified?
Yes, all of our bartenders are certified in TIPS, ServSafe, with NY alcohol training.
Do I need a permit to serve alcohol at my private event in NYC?
Generally, no permit is required for a private event in a private residence where alcohol is not being sold. Requirements change once alcohol is sold, tickets are charged, or the event is held in a public or commercial space. If you have any doubt about your specific situation, check with the New York State Liquor Authority or your venue directly, since rules vary by location and event type.
Service & Menus
Can you create custom cocktails for our event?
Yes, that is the core of our Signature Bar package. Two custom cocktails built around your taste and your event, with printed menus.
Can you do non-alcoholic drinks?
Yes, built as a real menu rather than an afterthought.
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions or allergies?
Yes. Tell us in advance and we will adjust syrups, garnishes, and mixers accordingly.
Do you serve wine and beer as well as cocktails?
Yes, all packages include beer and wine service alongside the cocktail menu.