5 Rules of Bar Etiquette
Follow These Rules and Get Served Quickly Every Time
Everything has rules, whether they're social, legal, or personal. When you're out having a good time, a lot of thought is put into the social rules between men and women or a group of friends, but very little thought goes into the rules between the bartender and the patron. The following ten were taken from a survey of bartenders from all over the Midwest, but these rules, are universal.
1. Even though the bartenders are busy, they see you
There's really no need to slam your drink on the bar, rattle your keys, yell, or wave your money excitedly in their faces. In most cases, they probably knew you wanted a drink before you did, and put you on their list of "nexts." So have patience, superfly, and you'll have your fruity girlie drink before you can flip out your fake leather money clip.
2. Don't hit on the Bartender
Seriously. Yes, big red bartender has a fantastic tush and makes super delicious Kamikaze's, but she may also have a boyfriend, girlfriend, or husband. And even if she doesn't, why would she go home with you when the only thing you could think to say to her was "I'm here. What were your other two wishes?"
Same goes for you - girls and cougars. Just because burly man bartender smiled nice, does not mean he likes you. Do the bartenders appreciate you're flirting? Oh yes, said bartender Aaron Plautz of Wausau, Wis., "but please stop pinching my ass."
3. Last Call is Not an Option
The bar is closing in 15 minutes. It's now or never. Don't wait 10 minutes and try to order another drink. They will say no, and your begging and pleading and arguing will not work. On the same note, be aware of how long it takes to make your drink. If it's last call and there's 20 people in the bar and you've been drinking Brandy Alexanders all night or suddenly get the urge to try a banana daiquiri, know that you may quite possibly be turned down. Some bars turn off their blenders early to prevent any last call hysteria.
4. Know What You're Drinking Before You Come Up to the Bar.
On a busy Friday or Saturday night, bartenders in most bars have little time to spend with each patron. Before they get to you, be prepared with your drink order. If you don't know what you want, then wait to come to the bar. "Don't flag me down like you are dying of dehydration and then when I get there, you have to think about what you want! I'm busy!" said bartender Amy B*.
Also, if you're with a group, let one person know what you're having before approaching the bar. This will save time and get you faster service later on.
5. Have Your Money Out.
You just ordered 10 shots, 5 drinks, 11 pizzas and a pickled egg, and the bartender had it to you in less than 5 minutes. Now, they're standing there, waiting for you to pay, as you slowly pull out your wallet and begin counting one dollar bills. What the bartender will do: seemingly wait patiently for you to count those $150 ones. What the bartender would like to do: hit you over the head with their muddler. The solution? Have your money out when the bartender gets back. Even if you don't know how much you're going to spend, you must have some idea. So pull out what you think it might be and if it's less, FANTASTIC, and if it's more, then at least you tried.
Another solution: run a tab. It's fast and easy and you only have to figure out the tip once.
Click here for 6 through 10.
*Name changed to protect source identity.
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