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How to Tip a Bartender Who Knows Their Beer: A Personal Experience

Last night, I ventured into a new bar and ordered a Belgian gueuze, fully anticipating the familiar struggle most bartenders have with pronouncing it. To my surprise, the bartender effortlessly pronounced it “guhz” and proceeded to share her enthusiasm for the drink’s wild fermentation process. She even suggested a cheese pairing without me having to ask!

As I sat there, taken aback by her knowledge and passion, I found myself reflecting on how often bartenders either avoid pronouncing complex beer names or mispronounce them with confidence. This experience was different; she clearly understood the craft and had a genuine interest in providing an excellent service.

I ended up leaving a generous tip of 30% because her expertise truly impressed me. However, this prompted me to question the unwritten rules of tipping in such situations. Should tips vary based on a bartender’s knowledge of craft beer? Is there a “pronunciation scale” that affects how much we tip?

When it comes to bartenders who demonstrate a thorough understanding of their offerings—whether it’s through precise pronunciation, insightful recommendations, or perfect service—shouldn’t we acknowledge that with a commensurate tip? After all, a knowledgeable bartender not only enhances our experience but also contributes to elevating our appreciation of unique beverages.

In conclusion, next time you encounter a bartender who knows their drinks inside and out, don’t hesitate to adjust your tip as a token of recognition for their expertise. It serves not just as a reward for great service, but also encourages a culture of knowledge and passion in the craft of mixology. Cheers!