Bruno Pugh
Sitting at the bar and winding down after a day can be gratifying. It’s a lively atmosphere, often filled with engaging conversations, glasses clinking, music, and an endless crowd. However, immersing yourself in this social space requires understanding the etiquette that ensures everyone has a pleasant time. Here are 15 essential etiquette tips you should always use when sitting at the bar.
Be Respectful to the Staff
Bartenders and staff often juggle between tasks, so your patience can make all the difference. Your courtesy is essential to good bar etiquette, making their job easier and reflecting well on you. Acting rudely or entitled won’t win you any favors and might even earn you disapproving looks.
Know What You Want Before You’re Asked
One of the quickest ways to disrupt the flow at a busy bar is to hesitate when it’s your turn to order. Familiarize yourself with the menu or have a go-to drink in mind. This way, you keep the line moving and guarantee you get the best possible drink for your taste.
Use The Napkin Wisely
It’s not uncommon for bartenders to accidentally spill liquids in bars, but customers are more likely to do so. It’s important to recognize that the humble napkin serves a crucial purpose beyond just providing a spot for your phone. It’s there to shield the bar’s wooden surface from potential damage caused by spills and drips.
Avoid Ordering Complicated Drinks During a Rush
While in a packed bar, there might be better ideas than ordering a drink requiring five ingredients and a blowtorch. Stick to simple orders during busy times to help keep things running smoothly. If you’re craving something more complex, ask when the rush dies down, and the bartender can give it the attention it deserves.
Refrain From Skipping the Line
Waiting in line can be frustrating, especially when you’re eager to order a drink. It’s tempting to try and grab the bartender’s attention by waving or flashing cash, but cutting in line is a surefire way to annoy the staff and other patrons. The best approach is to be patient and wait your turn.
Don’t Camp at the Bar if You’re Not Ordering
Bars are social spaces, and the prime real estate should be kept open for those actively ordering. Once you’ve finished your drink and aren’t planning to order more, consider moving to a table or standing area. It allows others to enjoy the bar and keeps the flow uninterrupted.
Don’t Swipe Those Bar Garnishes.
Taking garnishes from the bar might seem harmless, but it’s a breach of bar etiquette. Those lemon wedges, olives, and cherry garnishes are prepared and measured to complement the drinks—not for casual snacking. When you help yourself to these garnishes, you’re disrupting the bartender’s process while taking away from other customers’ experience.
Avoid Overindulging
It’s easy to lose track of how much you’ve had, especially when the drinks are flowing while you enjoy the company of your mates. However, overindulging can lead to poor decisions and put the bartender in a difficult position. Know your limits and pace yourself to keep the experience enjoyable for everyone.
Your Isn’t Interested in Dating You
It’s important to remember that your bartender’s friendly attitude is part of the job, not a personal invitation. Their light flirting is a tactic to keep you ordering drinks and tipping generously, not an expression of romantic interest. Assuming otherwise can lead to awkward situations and misunderstandings.
Know When to Close the Laptop
Many bars offer free WiFi, making it easy to catch up on emails or relax with a drink and do some work on a quiet afternoon. Nonetheless, it is only okay to use your computer if you’re not hogging space that other patrons could use. However, once the bar gets crowded, either put it away or make space for others.
Bartender Doesn’t Need That Shot
Offering your bartender a drink or a shot might seem polite. Still, it’s usually not necessary—and often not allowed. So, suppose you haven’t seen your bartender pour themselves a drink. In that case, it’s likely because the bar’s policy prohibits staff from drinking while working. Thus, don’t insist or tease them about being no fun.
Moderate Your Volume
Indeed, bars can get loud, but that doesn’t mean you should add to the noise. Keep your voice low, especially when the bar is crowded. Shouting over others can ruin the atmosphere and make it hard for people to enjoy their time. Step outside or find a quieter spot if you’re having trouble hearing.
Return Your Empty Glasses to the Bar
A simple yet courteous gesture is to return your empty glasses to the bar. Although a small act, it goes a long way in helping the staff. By bringing your empties back, you save the bartenders from having to run around collecting them, allowing them to focus on serving drinks and providing good service.
Tip Generously, Especially on the First Round
Tipping isn’t just a courtesy—it’s a way to build rapport. Start with a generous tip on your first drink, increasing your chance of receiving faster and friendlier service for the rest of the night. Bartenders remember good tippers, so aim for at least a dollar per drink or 20% of the total.
Know When To Leave
Finally, recognize when it’s time to leave. If the bar is closing or you’ve had your fill for the evening, exit gracefully. Thank the staff for their service, and say goodbye to fellow patrons you interacted with. Leaving on a positive note ensures the staff will be glad to see you on your next visit.