Tipping Etiquette: How Knowledgeable Bartenders Influence Your Gratuity

Last night, I had the delightful experience of visiting a new bar, where I ordered a Belgian gueuze. I anticipated the typical mispronunciation that often accompanies such niche beverages, but what happened next left me pleasantly surprised.

The bartender confidently pronounced “gueuze” as “guhz,” seamlessly transitioning into a discussion about its distinct wild fermentation process. She even suggested a complementary cheese pairing without me needing to ask—the entire interaction felt like a masterclass in beer appreciation. I couldn’t help but feel admiration for her expertise, especially since many bartenders either shy away from pronouncing complex names or stumble through them without a second thought.

Given her impressive knowledge and the quality of service, I decided to tip 30%, which is notably more than the standard expectation. However, this experience sparked a question: Should bartenders’ knowledge and expertise affect our tipping practices? Is there an unspoken guideline that suggests we adjust our gratuity based on a bartender’s ability to expertly cater to our preferences?

Do we create a sliding scale that considers not just service but also the depth of understanding they bring to the table? When we encounter a bartender who genuinely recognizes and appreciates the offerings instead of merely reciting what’s on the menu, should we reward that expertise more generously?

As the craft beer scene continues to grow, perhaps it’s worth evaluating how we show appreciation for bartenders who elevate the experience. Next time you find yourself enjoying a well-served drink, consider how the bartender’s knowledge impacts your experience—and maybe show it through your tip!