Alright, folks, let’s get one thing straight: I’ve been at this for over 40 years, and I’m past the point of putting up with nonsense. I’ve seen more cocktails than most of you have had hot dinners, and I’ve poured enough drinks to fill a swimming pool. At over sixty, I know this job inside and out—better than the back of my hand, because at least the job’s still holding up. So, let’s talk about how to treat your bartender like a human being, not just a drink-dispensing machine.
5 Pet Peeves That Are Just Plain Rude
- Snapping Fingers to Get Attention I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again—this isn’t the circus, and I’m not a trained animal. Snapping your fingers to get my attention? That’s a one-way ticket to the back of the line. Show a little respect, and remember that I’ve probably already clocked you. I’m not ignoring you—I’m just busy keeping the bar from turning into a free-for-all.
- Waving Money in the Air Look, I’ve been doing this since before some of you were even born. You don’t need to flash your cash like it’s 1985 and you’re trying to impress someone. We all know you’re paying; that’s kind of the whole point. But waving money around like a flag? It’s tacky, and it’s not going to make me pour your drink any faster. Patience, my friend.
- Complaining About Prices You think I set the prices? I’m just here to pour the drinks, not negotiate a deal. If you’re upset about how much your cocktail costs, take it up with management. Complaining to the bartender about the price isn’t just pointless—it’s disrespectful. Besides, if you’re out at a nice place, you’re paying for more than just the booze. You’re paying for the experience, and hey, I’m part of that.
- Interrupting While I’m Talking to Another Customer I’m a bartender, not a mind reader. If I’m mid-conversation with someone, give me a second to finish before jumping in. Interrupting me isn’t just rude—it throws off my whole flow. I promise I’ll get to you, but you’ve got to wait your turn. You wouldn’t cut in line at the DMV (or maybe you would, but I’d advise against it here).
- Taking Up a Bar Stool Without Ordering Listen, if you’re just here to take selfies and sip on water while hogging a prime bar seat, you’re doing it wrong. This bar is my stage, not your Instagram backdrop. Taking up space without ordering is like squatting in someone’s living room without paying rent—it’s just bad form. If you’re not going to be a part of the bar, at least let someone else be.
5 Examples of Customer Misbehavior (and How to Do Better)
- Wrong Behavior: Arguing Over a Drink’s Strength "This drink is too weak!" Look, after 40 years, I know my measurements better than I know some of my regulars. Arguing with me about how strong (or weak) your drink is isn’t going to change the fact that I’m following the recipe. You want something stronger? Just ask politely, and I might be able to tweak it for you. How to Be Better: Approach the situation with a little courtesy. If you’re not happy with your drink, I’ll fix it, no problem. But come at me with accusations, and we’re not off to a great start.
- Wrong Behavior: Cutting in Line I’ve got eyes like a hawk, even at my age. Cutting in line isn’t just bad manners; it’s disrespectful to everyone around you. And trust me, I notice. How to Be Better: Wait your turn. I’ll get to you, and if you’re patient and polite, I might even throw in a little extra charm.
- Wrong Behavior: Getting Too Personal I’ve been bartending long enough to hear some wild stories, but there’s a line. Getting too personal, especially after a few drinks, can be uncomfortable—for both of us. I’m not here to be your therapist or your life coach. ? How to Be Better: Keep it friendly and light. Bartenders are happy to chat, but there’s a boundary between casual conversation and crossing the line into TMI territory. Respect it.? ?
- Wrong Behavior: Complaining About the Wait Time Here’s a tip: Complaining about the wait doesn’t make me work faster. If anything, it just stresses everyone out. If the bar’s packed, everyone’s waiting—it’s not just you. How to Be Better: Relax, enjoy the atmosphere, and trust that I’m doing my best. If you want fast drinks and no crowd, I hear your kitchen’s always open.
- Wrong Behavior: Being Glued to Your Phone Listen, I’m here to make drinks and help you have a good time, not to be part of your social media entourage. If you’re too busy taking selfies and scrolling through Instagram, you’re missing the whole point of being at the bar. And no, I don’t want to be in your selfie holding your drink like a prop. How to Be Better: Put the phone down for a minute and engage with the real world. Enjoy the drink I just made you, chat with the person next to you, and be present in the moment. You’ll have a better time, and so will everyone around you.
Final Thoughts: Respect the Bar, and the Bar Will Respect You
After 40 years in this business, I’ve learned that being a bartender is about more than just making drinks—it’s about creating an experience. But that experience only works when there’s mutual respect. So, treat your bartender with a little dignity, and we’ll make sure you have a great time.
Oh by the way, the tip isn’t just a bonus, it’s how bartenders make a living. If you enjoyed your drinks and the service, a decent tip is not just appreciated, it’s expected. Stiffing your bartender after they’ve taken care of you? That’s a surefire way to get remembered, and not in a good way.
And remember, the bar isn’t just a backdrop for your social media—it’s a place to connect, relax, and enjoy.
