Bartending School? Where do the real pros go?

I'm thinking about going to bartending school, but I'm most interested in classic cocktails and the true art form -- a la Eastern Standard, Drink, Deep Ellum, et al. Where do people interested in these things go to learn? Is it one of those places like the Boston Bartending School, or is there something with more finesse or focus? Or was it just on the job training? Does anyone have any pointers?

Thanks!

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Eastern Standard
528 Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215

Deep Ellum Bar
477 Cambridge St, Allston, MA 02134

KSquared26 in Greater Boston Area

New Martha's Vineyard Recommendations?

Hi all,

We're headed out to the Vineyard in a week or so, and I'm wondering what's out there that is new. We were last there two years ago, and have some old favorites, but are wondering what's tasty, and any hidden gems we may have missed. We like a mix of low-brow with one or two upscale places thrown in. We're staying in Edgartown, but know the island well and are happy to go wherever (especially since I'm pregnant, and can be the desi).

Thanks!
Katie

KSquared26 in Southern New England

Northampton -- What not to miss?

Hi All,

I'm going to be spending the weekend in Northampton, MA while my husband is at a conference. I'll need to knock off two breakfasts, lunches, and dinners by myself. Anyone have any recommendations on good spots to check out? I pretty much am open to anything, as long as it's an experience (and not too pricey). I'll have a car, so I can also travel a bit for a real gem.

Thanks!

KSquared26 in Southern New England

Must-See Classic Boston-Area Restaurants

Thanks for all of the great feedback! I love the hidden gems mixed in here that are not as popular. HiddenBoston, care to share the rest of your list?

The more I've thought about it, the more I've realized that although drinks are all well and good, really the ambiance is what I'm seeking. I've been to a lot of these types of places in other cities that are a shadow of their former selves, but you can still feel the glory, if that makes any sense at all. Those are the best to me. Maybe this cocktail renaissance will help some of these spots find new life.

KSquared26 in Greater Boston Area

Must-See Classic Boston-Area Restaurants

Real connoisseur of everything old and dusty here. Maybe it's Mad Men rubbing off on me, but I want to make sure while I live in Boston (and before they close) I make it to EVERY area haunt that still has that classic feel.

I'm not looking for old places that have updated themselves and ostracized the white-hairs. I want to the places that still make a mean gin martini (and know that vodka is a poor substitute). Maybe they have London broil or peach Melba on the menu. They're surely dusty, and a bit weather-worn, but still have the spirit of an era that involved more hats and gloves than blue jeans and iPhones. They need not be expensive, just earnest.

These places are a dying breed, and I'd like to check them all out before it's too late. As a non-native, I don't have a good handle on where to find these joints.

Food is important, drinks are even more crucial, but what I really care about is the atmosphere.

Help me relive the past!

KSquared26 in Greater Boston Area