7 Ways to Keep Your Bartender Coming Back to Serve You

It would be easy to point you to my article, 7 Ways to Piss Off Your Bartender and advise you to do the opposite. However, that would be less constructive and I truly want you to enjoy your night at the bars and to give you the tools to fool your friends into thinking that you’re a V.I.P.

Below is a list, in no particular order, to help you insure your bartender will see your face first in a crowd of thirsty patrons and keep you and your friends liquored up for the duration of your stay:

1. Make a Good First Impression with Your Bartender.

On you’re first trip to the bar, be patient and polite. Chances are there are other things he must get done before he gets to you. There might be only a few guests at the bar, but keep in mind that he may have other tables and/or making drinks for the servers’ tables. Introduce yourself and be genuine about it

Have your order ready, so that he’s not waiting for you to decide. There are other customers waiting to be served. Remember that your business is important, but there are other important guests as well.

2. Tip High Your First Two Rounds.

35% – 40% of the total is perfect to get your bartenders attention on the 1st two rounds. All subsequent rounds should be 25% – 30% ($1 per drink or more). ALWAYS pay separately for each round. Running a tab for you and your party greatly decreases the confidence that the bartender has in you as a tipper. If it’s absolutely necessary to run a tab, give him a credit card to hold and leave a tip up front.

3. We All Like to Hear Our Own Names.

Remember your bartenders name and address him as such when his services are needed. If you forgot, just ask someone who works there what his name is.

4. Compliment the Bartender.

We all like to know that our guests appreciate our skills. Tell him you “love” the cocktail, or “Make my next one JUST like this one.” Be original, creative, and genuine.

5. Always be Courteous.

Your bartender is human and expects to be respected like any other individual. The service industry is a thankless industry and people tend to think that the barstaff and waitstaff are there to be slaves. Always say please and thank you for any services rendered by your barstaff. We will remember your kindness. And no… a tip is not a thank you.

6. Chat-up Your Bartender.

Don’t be afraid to make small conversation with your barman. Keep in mind though that he will frequently be interrupted by other customers, servers, and other duties. Try not to lock him up in a long chat, he may feel bad for interrupting you even though he has other people to help.

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7. Become a Regular.

After the bartender sees you a few times, he’s going to remember your face and possibly your name. This can be the start of fun relationship between barman and customer. Once you’ve established a “Regular” relationship with the bar, not only will the bartender come to you fast, but he’ll probably go out of his way to greet you and to get your order.

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I have used all these suggestions in many bars throughout the country and abroad. From Las Vegas to Hobart Tazmania and they work almost every time. However, I give no guarantee. There is a possibility that you’ll come across a bartender who doesn’t give a crap about your tip, your compliments, or your attempts at politeness. My advice in that case: Go to the next bar…

Did I forget one? Let me know in the comments below.

Related articles:

• How To Get a Drink At a Crowded Bar (howcast.com)
• Ask the Bartender: What Happened to My Free Drink? (seattleweekly.com)