In the first episode of "Bartender - Kami no Glass," the crucial role of bartenders is highlighted, drawing a parallel to healthcare professionals in terms of their ethical obligation to honesty. The Hotel Cardinal, which opened a few months ago, aims to establish an authentic counter bar and is in the process of selecting a suitable bartender through a rigorous testing procedure overseen by the head of the business planning department, Kamishima, and his team.

The episode features a series of bartender candidates attempting to impress the jury with their signature cocktails, only to be criticized for failing to consider the context of their drinks—such as the timing of consumption in relation to meals and the proper selection of cocktails for specific situations.

In search of a bartender capable of crafting the "Glass of God" as envisioned by the hotel management, Ryu Sasakura is introduced—a skilled and attentive bartender with a deep understanding of his craft. His chance encounter with Miwa Kurushima from the hotel's business planning department leads to insightful moments about his expertise and bartending philosophy, emphasizing the core principles of the profession: care and precision.

The episode concludes with the hotel staff recognizing Ryu's exceptional talent and considering him as a potential candidate in their quest to find a bartender capable of creating the "Glass of God."