The Etiquette of Tipping: Appreciating Knowledgeable Bartenders

Last night, I visited a new bar that specializes in Belgian beers, hoping to indulge in a delicious gueuze. As I approached the bar, I braced myself for the usual mispronunciation. To my pleasant surprise, the bartender confidently pronounced it “the guhz” and effortlessly transitioned into a discussion about the fascinating wild fermentation process behind this unique beverage. She even offered cheese pairing recommendations without me having to ask—a true testament to her expertise.

In a world where many bartenders either shy away from correct pronunciations or merely muddle through the names, encountering someone who genuinely knows their craft was refreshing. This experience left me not only impressed by her knowledge but also considering how to express my appreciation through tipping.

I ultimately chose to tip 30%, a decision that felt warranted given the bartender’s thorough understanding of the drink and her exceptional service. Yet, it made me curious about the unwritten rules of tipping in such scenarios. Should we take a bartender’s expertise into account when determining our tip percentage? Is there an informal sliding scale based on their skill level and knowledge?

When you find yourself in the presence of a bartender who clearly goes above and beyond in their service, how do you react? Do you adjust your gratuity accordingly? It seems that as customers, our responsibility goes beyond simply enjoying a well-crafted drink; we also have the opportunity to acknowledge and reward those who elevate our experience.

Next time you’re at a bar and receive exceptional service from someone who knows their craft, consider how their expertise transforms your visit. It just might be worth that extra percentage in your tip!