5 More Rules of Bar Etiquette

Get Served Even Faster

Mar 10, 2009 Jessica Spengler

The first five rules were important, but the true secrets to great service lay in the final five.

When enjoying yourself at the bar, it's important to remember a few simple things, such as having your money out and knowing what you're drinking, as well as not hitting on the bartenders, waiting patiently for busy bartenders and respecting last call. However, the most important rules may be the ones you never think about.

6. Don't Expect Free Drinks.

Yes, you know the owner. Yes, you drank seven high-end Long Island Ice Teas. Yes, you're their brother. But no, that does not mean you qualify for a free drink. Some bars have strict free drink policies, and that may include never giving one out. Don't make the bartender feel bad. They're doing their job and they're doing it so that you can have a good time. Don't give them a hard one. And if you do get a free drink, good for you! Appreciate those and refer to number 10.

7. Understand That Every Bar is Different.

Drinks will be made differently at the big city bar from the neighborhood pub back home. Some bars shake dice for drinks, some bars don't. Some bars don't have specials. Some bartenders don't know that your favorite drink is called a greyhound. They just know it's called a vodka grapefruit and they probably don't know you want Grey Goose. Some bars don't serve food, have a blender, or tap beer. At some bars last call is 1:45 a.m., and at some it's 3:45 a.m. Realize that every bar is different and that they're not trying to mess with you. That's just the way it is.

8. Don't Complain About Cover/Drink/Food/Jukebox Prices.

Unless the bartender is also the bar owner or in the band, they didn't set the price. In some smaller bars, the cover charge is what pays the band that's playing. Without that money, you wouldn't get to see your favorite 80's cover band, The Socks and Strollers, at your favorite drinking hole. And of course the jukebox is expensive. Nowadays, you can download any music you want from anywhere. That's not cheap! And if you think paying $3.50 for a Captain and cola is bad, just wait until you hear how much the Jagar Bombs cost.

9. Don't Fight.

Ever. And if you feel you have to, either take it outside or understand when you get thrown out and the cops show up.

10. Tip, Tip, Tip.

The most important rule of them all. The tip you leave will determine the service you get. Standard tipping is about $1.00 a drink or 15% of the bill, but for better, faster, or fantastic service, a larger tip is asked. The higher you tip earlier in the night, the faster your drinks will come as the night progresses. It may not be what you want to hear, but if a bartender thinks you'll make it worth their while, you'll never wait for another drink again.

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