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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
- Does anyone else feel guilty drinking beer alone because it’s supposed to be a social experience?
- I’m new to drinking beer and I need some suggestions.
- Cleaning house and found a 10-15 year old bottle of barley wine from High Water Brewing, which I think no longer exists. What are the chances it’s drinkable, as in not holding my nose drinkable?
- I’m new to drinking beer and I need some suggestions.
- Tried Dragon’s Milk and loved it, any other dark/milk stout recommendations?
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The Art of Tipping: How Beer Knowledge Affects Gratuity
Last night, I had the pleasure of visiting a new bar that specializes in Belgian beers. As I ordered a Belgian gueuze, I braced myself for the typical mispronunciation that often accompanies exotic brews. However, to my surprise, the bartender confidently pronounced it “the guhz” and proceeded to share her expertise on the wild fermentation process. To make my experience even better, she suggested a cheese pairing without me having to ask!
I found myself momentarily taken aback; it’s rare to encounter a bartender who not only knows the drink but also takes the time to educate patrons. Most often, bartenders either skip over the name or mispronounce it while hastily pouring the beer into whichever glass they find nearby. This bartender, however, demonstrated a genuine passion for her craft, making me appreciate the experience even more.
Given her impressive service and the wealth of knowledge she shared, I felt compelled to leave a 30% tip. However, this led me to ponder—what are the unwritten rules when it comes to tipping based on a bartender’s expertise? Should one’s knowledge of beer influence the gratuity? Is there an unwritten scale that adjusts the tip based on pronunciation accuracy or beverage recommendations?
When you find yourself with a bartender who truly understands the nuances of their offerings, how do you express your gratitude? It seems there is room for a more nuanced approach to tipping that recognizes not only the service but also the bartenders’ commitment to enriching our experience with their knowledge and enthusiasm. After all, a little expertise can turn an ordinary night out into a memorable one. What are your thoughts on tipping for exceptional bar service?