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The Art of Tipping: How to Reward Bartenders Who Know Their Brews

Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting a new bar where I ordered a Belgian gueuze, anticipating the usual struggle that comes with specifying such a unique beverage. To my surprise, the bartender not only pronounced “gueuze” accurately—saying “the guhz is excellent” with ease—but also delved into an engaging discussion about the wild fermentation process behind this special brew. She even suggested a cheese pairing, demonstrating a depth of knowledge that is often absent in many establishments.

In those moments, I found myself a bit taken aback. Typically, bartenders either steer clear of attempting to pronounce certain drink names or, with misplaced confidence, take a swing at it, usually getting it wrong. This bartender stood out, showcasing a genuine understanding of what she was serving.

In light of her expertise and attentiveness, I decided to tip 30%—a substantial gesture reflecting my appreciation. However, this experience has left me pondering: Is there an unspoken rule regarding how to tip based on a bartender’s knowledge? Does their ability to accurately pronounce a difficult name merit a higher tip?

I imagine many of you have had similar encounters with bartenders who deeply understand their craft. How do you handle tipping in such instances? Should we adjust our gratuities based on how knowledgeable a bartender is about their offerings? Is there a kind of sliding scale for when we receive exceptional service, especially from someone who clearly takes pride in their work?

These are questions worth considering next time you’re out enjoying a drink. Cheers to those bartenders who elevate our experiences with their passion and expertise!