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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.
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- 57/m: Love beer, but it doesn’t love me as much anymore
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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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The Etiquette of Tipping: When Bartenders Impress with Knowledge
Last night, I had the pleasure of visiting a new establishment that immediately set itself apart with a remarkable experience at the bar. As I ordered a Belgian gueuze, I prepared myself for the usual mispronunciation, which often comes with ordering unique craft beers. To my surprise, the bartender responded with confidence, saying, “The guhz is excellent,” effortlessly showcasing her expertise.
But it didn’t stop there. She started sharing insights about the complex wild fermentation process of the beer and even suggested a cheese pairing that would complement the drink perfectly, all without me having to ask. I sat there, somewhat taken aback, since many bartenders either choose to avoid the beer’s name altogether or mispronounce it while pouring. However, this bartender demonstrated a genuine understanding of her craft, serving not just the drink, but also an enriching experience.
In light of such exemplary service, I tipped 30%, feeling that her knowledge and engagement truly warranted it. This led me to ponder whether there is an unspoken rule regarding tipping that factors in a bartender’s familiarity with the beverages they serve. Do we modify our tips based on our bartender’s expertise? Is there a grading scale for the ability to correctly pronounce intricate beer names?
When you encounter a bartender who brings authenticity and knowledge to the table—who knows the distinctions of what they’re serving rather than merely reciting from a tap list—what’s the appropriate response? It’s a fascinating topic for discussion, one that merits exploration beyond set percentages. It seems evident that when a bartender not only serves a drink but also enhances your overall experience through their knowledge, a tip reflecting that excellence is appropriate.
Ultimately, as craft beer aficionados, it’s worth considering how we acknowledge those who elevate our experiences in such meaningful ways. What are your thoughts on tipping etiquette in these scenarios? How do you show appreciation for bartenders who go above and beyond?