22 Things Your Bartender Won’t Tell You
Updated: Jan. 05, 2023Bartenders share their secrets, tips and best etiquette advice.
Yell, whistle or wave money and I’m going to make you wait
Make eye contact and smile, and I’ll come over as soon as I can. Know what you want and have your money ready. Don’t create a traffic jam. Here are 7 essential tips for an awesome home bar.
You want a drink made “strong”
Then order a double to make sure you get the amount alcohol you really want. By the way, here’s your guide for effortless food and drink pairings.
Liquor sales in bars and restaurants were down 2.2 percent last year
Even beer sales are slow. But people scrimp on food first, drinks second. Here’s how to save money when you eat out.
A lot of bars have comp tabs, which allows me to give away drinks
It’s smart business and helps build a base of regulars, especially at new bars and restaurants. Take a look at these lightened-up beverages you should order that the bar.
Bars that don’t have regulars (in hotels, airports) have started using wireless gadgets
…that measure how much is poured and automatically ring up each shot. They’re meant to prevent overpouring and to cut losses.
If your tipping guideline is still ‘a buck a drink,’ listen closely
That doesn’t fly if you order a $12 cocktail. Tip at least 15 percent. Brush up with this handy guide for tipping before you go out.
At some bars, the sliced fruit garnishes sit out until they’re gone
Sometimes for days. Munch accordingly. By the way, here are the items you shouldn’t order at a restaurant.
I have the police on speed dial
And I never hesitate to call when it comes to my or my patrons’ safety. Follow these 17 tips to help cut back on alcohol.
Don’t order a round of drinks after last call
Last call applies to everyone—even you. Here are 10 things your bartender really wishes you’d stop doing.
Some of us get a cut from the cab company when we call a taxi for a tipsy patron
Not that I’ve ever done that, of course. Here are the 8 reasons behind how you got tipsy so quickly in the first place.
We see some petty drama on occasion
Last week, a couple had a little too much to drink and got into a dumb argument. They then asked me to choose the “winner” of the fight. There isn’t a tip big enough to get me involved in that situation!
If I cut you off, don’t argue
If anything, you should apologize if you’ve made a scene. If you’re eating out on a budget, take a look at these restaurants that have great deals.
I love sharing what I know
If it’s not busy, ask me about the history of drink or the latest cocktail I’ve invented.
Here are some secrets that fast food workers aren’t telling you.
I like a sophisticated palate
You’ll win points with me if you request gin in your martini. But if you prefer your bottle of beer, these are the best beer gardens in every state.
Everyone should bartend a few nights in his life
You learn so much about people. Take a look at these things your pizza guy isn’t telling you.
I do more than mix drinks
I love being your psychiatrist-matchmaker-entertainer-friend. Otherwise, I wouldn’t tend bar.
Please take a cab
Be smart, know your limits, and don’t drink and drive. Next, learn about the common wine mistakes everyone makes.
