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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
- 57/m: Love beer, but it doesn’t love me as much anymore
- No Stupid Questions Wednesday – ask anything about beer
- 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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When Beer Knowledge Deserves Extra Recognition: Tipping Etiquette for Bartenders
During a recent visit to a trendy new bar, I ordered a Belgian gueuze, fully prepared for the usual mispronunciation that often accompanies this complex beer. To my surprise, the bartender confidently pronounced it correctly with “the guhz is excellent.” Not only did she demonstrate her expertise in pronunciation, but she went above and beyond to discuss the wild fermentation process behind the beer and even suggested a delightful cheese pairing—all without me even prompting her!
This level of knowledge genuinely took me aback. It’s not every day that you meet a bartender who can articulate the intricacies of the beverage they’re serving, as many either sidestep the pronunciation or mispronounce it with confidence while filling a glass. This bartender, however, showcased professionalism and a genuine passion for her craft, making my experience all the more enjoyable.
Feeling impressed, I decided to tip 30%—a reflection of my appreciation for her expertise and service. Yet, this experience left me pondering a question: Is there an unwritten rule about how much to tip based on a bartender’s beer knowledge and service quality? Should there be a “sliding scale” of tipping tied to their ability to pronounce obscure beer names accurately?
In the world of dining and service, it’s clear that exceptional knowledge can elevate the experience significantly. But how do you approach tipping when you encounter a bartender who truly understands their offerings versus one who simply recites a menu? It’s something to consider on future outings—after all, rewarding skilled service encourages the continued sharing of knowledge and passion in the beverage scene.
So, the next time you find yourself at a bar where the bartender showcases an impressive understanding of their craft, remember that your tip can be a powerful way to acknowledge their dedication. Whether it’s a 20%, 30%, or more, showing gratitude for expertise not only feels good but supports a culture of excellence in the hospitality industry.