The Cocktail Academy
Empowered Staff. Elevated Hospitality.
Premium bar consultancy & training for hotels, restaurants, and bars.
About Damian and The Cocktail Academy.
I’ve worked in hospitality for over 25 years starting as a glass collector and working my way through every role on the floor and behind the bar, all the way to running my own venue. Along the way, I’ve learned that so many hospitality businesses are leaving money on the table by not tapping into the real power of delivering elevated hospitality. Not snobbish or stiff service, but true, warm, human hospitality that’s backed by solid systems, confident teams, and a clear culture.
Through The Cocktail Academy, I help hotels, bars, and restaurants unlock that potential with my training, practical hospitality systems, leadership development, and drinks programs that are designed to thrive in the real world. I’ve seen first-hand how the right approach to service can boost sales, lift team morale, and completely transform a guest’s experience. I also host The Cocktail Academy podcast, where I speak with some of the most respected voices in our industry because for me, it’s all about raising the bar and learning from the world’s best is a vital part of that strategy.
Partner With UsForget Basic Service.
Forget Basic Service.
This Is Elevated Hospitality.
Hospitality Training
If you’re ready to deliver warm, memorable guest experiences and run a more efficient, profitable business, we’re the partner you’ve been looking for.
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Drinks Program Design
We build drinks systems that work in practice, not just on paper and train your team to execute them confidently and consistently.
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Spirits Tasting & Spirits Category Training
Understanding the spirits behind the bar isn’t just about tasting, it’s about confidence, connection, and consistency.
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What Our Clients Say
Damian brought a fresh, creative energy to our bar team and helped us take our drinks and service offering to the next level. His training was professional, engaging, and tailored to how we actually work, with smart systems that improved speed and efficiency without losing the warmth we’re known for. He elevated both the team’s confidence and the customer experience.
Phil Patterson Owner, Hearth BarDamian’s training laid the groundwork for everything that followed in our bars. He helped us build strong systems and consistent service standards from day one, giving the team the confidence and structure to push on. Our drinks programme has gone from strength to strength across all venues, his impact is still felt every day.
Stephen Toney Co-Founder, Nico’s and Hendrix RestaurantsDamian understands that hospitality is about connection and that’s exactly what he delivered at a major international investment event we partnered on. He showcased Jawbox with warmth, professionalism, and real Belfast charm, creating an atmosphere that left a lasting impression on dignitaries and guests. His ability to build rapport and represent a brand with integrity is second to none. True hospitality in action.
Gerry White Founder, Jawbox GinDamian came in and completely transformed our drinks program and service standards. He systemised our bar operation, elevated staff performance, and helped us deliver true 360° hospitality — not just great drinks. Our cocktail sales have increased by over 200%, and we now have him working with us on our newest location. The results speak for themselves
Adrian Fullan Owner, The Leighinmohr House HotelDamian’s training made a real impact on our teams. His delivery is clear, practical, and rooted in real-world experience, he knows how to connect with staff at every level and bring out their best. What stood out most was his focus on genuine, warm hospitality not just service routines, but creating consistent, memorable guest experiences. Since working with him, we’ve seen a noticeable improvement in team confidence and customer feedback. He also helped us refine our drinks offering in a way that worked for our style of service and space. Damian brings clarity, structure, and passion to his training, and I’d recommend him to any venue serious about raising their hospitality game.
Andy Rea Owner, Mourne Seafood Bar, La Taqueria and Home Restaurant
The Podcast
Introducing "The Cocktail Academy" with your host Damian Cole
The Cocktail Academy Podcast brings you behind the bar and into the minds of the world’s most inspiring bartenders, bar owners, and hospitality leaders.
Each episode dives deep into the culture, craft, and business of cocktails, offering insights that go far beyond the glass. Designed for hospitality professionals, owners, and curious enthusiasts, the podcast explores what makes great bars work, how staff can thrive, and where the industry is heading. Our guests don’t just share stories, they offer hard-won lessons, creative inspiration, and practical advice that shape the way we deliver training and consultancy at The Cocktail Academy. Their voices and experiences help elevate everything we do, ensuring our work stays sharp, relevant, and rooted in real-world expertise.
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