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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
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- Does anyone else get treated like a beer snob for ordering literally anything that isn’t a macro lager?
- Is there a polite way to refuse a beer that’s being served in the wrong glassware without making everyone at the table uncomfortable?
- # What’s the most pretentious thing you’ve ever said about beer that you secretly didn’t understand yourself?
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What’s the Right Tip for a Knowledgeable Bartender?
Last night, I had the pleasure of visiting a new bar that specializes in Belgian ales, and I found myself facing an unexpected delight. As I ordered a Belgian gueuze, I braced myself for the usual mispronunciation that often accompanies such niche beverages. However, to my surprise, the bartender confidently pronounced it “the guhz” and proceeded to engage me in a fascinating conversation about the beer’s wild fermentation process.
Even more impressive was her ability to suggest a cheese pairing without me having to prompt her. It was a breath of fresh air to meet a bartender who truly understood what they were serving rather than simply pouring from the tap list. Typically, I’ve come across bartenders who either shy away from attempting to pronounce complex names or mispronounce them boldly while serving a drink.
After experiencing such exceptional service and expertise, I felt compelled to tip generously—30%, to be exact. Yet, it left me pondering: Is there an unwritten rule about how to adjust tips based on a bartender’s knowledge? Should familiarity with beer terminology influence our gratuities?
As someone who values great service, I’m curious how others approach these situations. Is there a guiding principle when tipping a bartender who not only knows their craft but also shares their passion with customers? Should we establish a “sliding scale” for tip percentages that reflect a bartender’s expertise and engagement?
Next time you find yourself at a bar where the staff demonstrates genuine knowledge and enthusiasm about the drinks they serve, consider acknowledging their skills with a well-deserved tip. After all, it’s not every day that you meet a bartender who elevates the experience from mundane to memorable!