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Steven Coulson
Steven has been drinking beers, wines and spirits for decades and has a propensity to go about them at length after a few drinks.
Latest Posts
- 57/m: Love beer, but it doesn’t love me as much anymore
- No Stupid Questions Wednesday – ask anything about beer
- Does anyone else get treated like a beer snob for ordering literally anything that isn’t a macro lager?
- Is there a polite way to refuse a beer that’s being served in the wrong glassware without making everyone at the table uncomfortable?
- # What’s the most pretentious thing you’ve ever said about beer that you secretly didn’t understand yourself?
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How Much Should You Tip a Knowledgeable Bartender?
Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting a new bar that specialized in unique brews, and I found myself enjoying a Belgian gueuze. To my surprise, the bartender pronounced it flawlessly as “the guhz is excellent,” which is not something I encounter often. Most of the time, bartenders either steer clear of difficult names or mispronounce them confidently while pouring.
This bartender wasn’t just a master of pronunciation; she also dived into a discussion about the wild fermentation process that characterizes gueuze, and she even suggested a delightful cheese pairing. Her enthusiasm and knowledge left me genuinely impressed.
In light of this exceptional service, I tipped 30%. However, it got me thinking about the unwritten etiquette surrounding tipping, particularly for bartenders who demonstrate expertise beyond the standard service. Should you adjust your tip based on a bartender’s knowledge of the drinks they serve? Is there a kind of ‘sliding scale’ that applies when someone clearly knows their craft?
The experience got me reflecting on the value of expertise in the service industry. When you’re served by someone who is not only knowledgeable but also passionate about what they do, it certainly enhances the overall experience. So, the next time you find yourself faced with a bartender who goes above and beyond, consider tipping generously to show your appreciation for their skill and dedication. After all, great service should be rewarded!