Acting appropriately in a bar, especially when interacting with the bar staff, involves showing courtesy and efficiency. By following a few simple guidelines, you can help ensure a smooth experience for yourself and the bartender.
Bar Etiquette: Ordering & Paying Like a Pro
Based on tips for ordering like a pro, here are key ways to act when at the bar, focusing on interactions with staff and other patrons at the bar area:
Ordering Your Drinks
When it's your turn at the bar, be ready and considerate.
- Be Polite: Always say please and thank you. This simple courtesy is essential when ordering or receiving your drinks and shows respect for the staff.
- Order Efficiently: Order all of your drinks at once. If you are ordering for a group, have everyone's order ready so you can tell the bartender everything in one go. This saves time and allows the bartender to serve you and others more quickly.
- Simplify Group Shots: If your group wants shots, try and order shots that are all the same. This makes the bartender's job much easier and faster than making multiple different types of shots.
- Soft Drinks: The reference suggests you assume soft drinks are free. (Note: This can vary depending on the establishment and location, so it's always best to confirm if unsure, but the reference explicitly mentions this point).
Paying the Bill
Having your payment ready speeds up the transaction process significantly.
- Be Prepared: Have your money ready. Whether paying with cash or card, have it accessible when you order or when the bartender brings your drinks. This avoids fumbling and speeds up service.
- Group Payment: Try and ensure that one person pays for the whole round. This simplifies the transaction for the bartender compared to splitting the bill multiple ways for a single order. You can sort out payments amongst your group afterwards.
After Getting Your Drink
Once you have your drinks and have paid, be mindful of your space.
- Clear the Bar: Stand at the bar after you've got your drink (and moved slightly away from the ordering spot). Don't linger directly in the area where people are trying to order. Move aside so others can access the bar to place their orders.
These actions contribute to a positive bar experience for everyone.
Summary of Bar Ordering Tips
Here's a quick overview of the key actions:
| Action | Why it Helps |
|---|---|
| Say Please & Thank You | Shows courtesy and respect |
| Order All Drinks At Once | Improves efficiency, speeds up service |
| Order Same Shots (for group) | Simplifies bartender's task for large orders |
| Have Money Ready | Expedites payment process |
| One Person Pays for Round | Simplifies payment for groups |
| Move After Ordering | Keeps the bar clear for others to order |
| Assume Soft Drinks Free* | As suggested by reference (*verify if unsure) |
Following these points, as outlined in resources like the Wissbar blog on Bar Etiquette: How To Order Like A Pro, can make your visit more pleasant and efficient.
