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Tipping Etiquette: How Knowledge Enhances Bartending

Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting a new establishment where I ordered a classic Belgian gueuze. Like many, I anticipated the bartender would fumble the pronunciation, a common occurrence when it comes to craft beverages. To my surprise, the bartender confidently pronounced it “the guhz” and seamlessly transitioned into an engaging discussion about the beer’s unique wild fermentation process. She even suggested a cheese pairing without me having to ask!

This experience left me pleasantly stunned. It’s rare to find a bartender who not only knows their drinks but takes the initiative to elevate the experience. In a world where many bartenders either avoid the pronunciation or mispronounce it entirely, her expertise was refreshing.

Given the impressive service, I tipped 30%, genuinely feeling that her knowledge warranted a substantial reward. But this incident sparked a question: Is there an unwritten rule regarding tips based on a bartender’s expertise? Should knowledgeable service automatically translate to higher gratuities?

When you encounter a bartender who demonstrates a deep understanding of their offerings, it raises the bar for the entire experience. It’s about more than just pouring a drink—it’s about creating an engaging interaction that enhances your visit.

In conclusion, while traditional tipping guidelines suggest a standard percentage, an exceptional display of knowledge and service can certainly justify a more generous tip. How do you navigate tipping in such scenarios? Do you have a sliding scale in mind for discerning bartending skills? Your thoughts could help others decide how to reward that next exceptional bartender!