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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.
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- # What’s the most pretentious thing you’ve ever said about beer that you secretly didn’t understand yourself?
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Title: Tipping Etiquette: How Knowledgeable Bartenders Influence Gratuity
Last night, I had the pleasure of visiting a new bar and found myself utterly impressed by an unexpected encounter: a bartender who not only knew how to pronounce “gueuze” correctly, but also shared her expertise on the beer’s unique characteristics. When I ordered a Belgian gueuze, I was braced for the typical mispronunciation that often accompanies such niche selections, yet to my surprise, she confidently said, “the guhz is excellent.”
But her knowledge didn’t stop there. This bartender went above and beyond by elaborating on the wild fermentation process behind the brew and even suggested a cheese pairing to enhance the drinking experience, all without me prompting her. In my experience, it’s rare to find bartenders who truly understand the beverages they serve; many either mispronounce the names or avoid the details altogether, sticking to the basics or simply reading from the tap list.
Her level of expertise left me taken aback, and feeling grateful for the well-served drink, I found myself tipping a generous 30%. This brought to mind an interesting question: is there an unwritten rule regarding tips based on a bartender’s knowledge of the drinks they serve? Should tipping be adjusted according to how well the bartender articulates the names of drinks or shares insightful details about them?
As a customer, what should you consider when faced with a knowledgeable bartender? Is there a joyous sliding scale for correct pronunciations, or do we reward them simply for their insightful recommendations?
Ultimately, I believe that engaging with customers and showcasing a passion for the craft can significantly impact the dining experience—and certainly the tip left at the end. Building rapport and sharing knowledge transforms an ordinary visit into a memorable one. So next time you encounter a bartender who impresses you with their expertise, don’t hesitate to adjust your gratuity accordingly. After all, it’s not just about the drink; it’s about the entire experience!