Hello fellow bar folk!

I am inquiring what yall use for syrup/juice bottles behind your bar?

We transitioned to Crew bottles about a year ago and I absolutely HATE them. They chip easily, leak and are a waste of money. We reached out to them to let them know how to possibly manufacture them better and they were quite rude about it.

I would like to find a Canadian company doing something similar and better, I’m hoping for some suggestions but I feel everyone just uses old liquor bottles.

I am a massive book lover as well as a cocktail lover.

I have worked as a bartender, sommelier and server and now work mainly in training hospo staff, but still work irregular shifts and events.

I regularly look stuff up and browse through my books. I much prefer to research in a book than the internet when I have the time. There's nothing like enjoying a cocktail at home while looking through a good cocktail book.

I know some are on a key ingredient (Gin, Vermouth and bitters) but for me they are more important as a cocktail ingredient than anything else!

Anyone else a cocktail book collector?

Any more you can recommend?

I plan to collect more old recipe books (e.g. Jerry Thomas etc.). But haven't had much luck in second hand shops for older editions.

I added a last-minute hospitality minor in my senior year of college, and to get all my credits before I graduate, my advisor is letting me do an Independent study! I chose bartending because in my major (Musical Theatre), we need survival jobs, and I am quite interested in the craft. I already work as a barback, and I know how to mix a couple of drinks. But what should I make sure I cover in my independent study? I have almost complete control over my area of focus.

I got a recommendation from a bartender/sommalier at a fine-dining restaurant that I focus on base spirits, wine, and beer knowledge and notes because that base information is more valuable in the long run. He recommended the book Windows on the World by Kevin Zraly

I also want to get some base certifications like ServSafe because even though I technically don't need it to work in Missouri, I think it is valuable.

I am planning on moving to New York/Chicago after I graduate, so regional insight would also be helpful.

What should I DEFINITELY learn about? And what are some insights you guys have? And resources I should learn from in my study?