How much do bartending services cost in Los Angeles?

Professional bartending services in Los Angeles start around $70 per hour per bartender for a standard event, with final pricing based on guest count, event length, bar setup, and add-on services like cocktail design or full event production. Contact us for a custom quote tailored to your event.

How many bartenders do I need for my event?

As a general rule, plan for one bartender per 50 guests for standard service, or one per 35 guests for cocktail-heavy events. We help you confirm the right staffing ratio based on your guest count, bar style, and timeline.

Are your bartenders licensed and insured?

Yes. All Platinum bartenders are licensed and insured, and we operate in full compliance with California ABC regulations. When required, we obtain an event-specific ABC permit before your event date. Host liquor liability and general liability insurance are available, and additional insured status for your host or venue can be added for a fee.

What areas do you serve?

We serve Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Palm Springs, and Las Vegas, with other locations available upon request.

How far in advance should I book?

We recommend booking at least 2 weeks in advance to secure your preferred staff and date, though we can often accommodate shorter timelines. Peak dates and large events should be booked as early as possible.

Do you provide the alcohol and handle the ABC permit?

We provide full bar setup, mixers, glassware, and bar rentals; clients typically supply the alcohol, and we secure the event-specific ABC permit where required. Let us know your needs and we'll handle the compliance details.

Bartender for Hire Los Angeles: How to Vet Professionals

Aug 21

Written By Jesse Owens

Platinum Bartenders staff working a Los Angeles event

The difference between a staffing company and a freelancer found on a listings site comes down to who carries the risk. A company employs the bartender, insures the work and can send someone else if the assigned person cannot make it. Platinum Bartenders charges $70 an hour for a bartender, 4 hour minimum, plus a $100 service charge per staff member.

Start with the insurance question

Two covers matter at an event where alcohol is served: general liability, for damage or injury at the venue, and liquor liability, which relates to serving. Platinum Bartenders LLC carries both, along with workers' compensation insurance.

An individual bartender may carry their own general liability policy, and plenty of good ones do. Ask to see it rather than assume it. If your venue requires a certificate of insurance, and many LA venues do, ask early, because it comes from whoever holds the policy.

Workers' compensation is the one people forget

General liability covers harm to other people and property. Workers' compensation covers the bartender if they are injured while working. Every Platinum staff member is a W-2 employee of Platinum Bartenders LLC, covered by the company's workers' compensation insurance, so an injury on the job is the company's matter to handle.

Hire an individual directly and that arrangement is between you and them. Ask a freelancer how they are set up and what happens if they are hurt at your event. Some have it sorted, some have not thought about it, and you want to know before the date.

Employment status and tax

A company that classifies its bartenders as W-2 employees handles payroll, tax withholding and workers' compensation for those staff. A company sending contractors runs a different model, and paying a freelancer directly is different again. None of this is legal advice; if a large event puts you near being treated as an employer, ask an accountant. Ask any company whether the person walking through your door is their employee.

What happens if nobody shows up

An individual working alone has no one behind them. If they are sick, stuck on the 405 or double booked, your bar has no bartender. A staffing company works from a roster of employees, so a replacement comes from that roster. Platinum does not promise availability for any date, so ask when you enquire rather than assuming a company can always cover. Ask anyone: what is your process if the staff member cannot make it, and who do I call on the day.

Common questions

Is a bartending company more expensive than hiring someone directly?

Usually it costs more per hour, and the extra buys the insurance, the employment status and the backup. Platinum is $70 an hour with a 4 hour minimum, so 4 x $70 = $280 plus the $100 service charge, or $380 for one bartender. You can price an event at book.platinumbartender.com.

What should I ask to see before I book?

Proof of general liability and liquor liability insurance, workers' compensation cover, RBS certification, and clear terms on payment and cancellation. Platinum bartenders are RBS certified and arrive with their own bar tools.

Do I need a liquor license for my event?

It depends on the event and on whether alcohol is sold rather than hosted, and some venues require a permit regardless. Platinum can obtain an ABC one-day permit for $1,950 where one is needed. Confirm the specifics with California ABC or your venue.

To see what a staffed event costs, build a quote at book.platinumbartender.com, call 310-985-3014, or email info@platinumbartender.com.

Jesse Owens