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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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The Art of Tipping: Do Expertise and Pronunciation Count?
In recent times, enjoying a unique beverage has often come hand-in-hand with a quest for the right service experience. Just last night, I ventured into a new establishment and ordered a Belgian gueuze. Typically, I prepare myself for the common mispronunciations of this artisan beer, anticipating the usual struggles many bartenders have with this delightful drink. However, I was pleasantly surprised when the bartender confidently declared, “The guhz is excellent.”
Not only did she pronounce it correctly, but she also delved into a passionate explanation of the wild fermentation process and even suggested a delightful cheese pairing—all without my prompting! I found myself in a state of mild astonishment; it’s not every day that you encounter a bartender who possesses both knowledge and enthusiasm for what they’re serving.
Reflecting on this interaction, I was struck by a thought: how should I express gratitude for such elevated service? In the end, I opted for a 30% tip, but it raised an interesting question in my mind. Is there an unspoken rule about tipping based on a bartender’s knowledge and expertise? Should one adjust their gratuity for skillful pronunciation or a deep understanding of a drink’s nuances?
As we navigate the world of dining and drinking, it begs the question—what do you do when you come across a bartender who goes above and beyond, demonstrating genuine knowledge of their craft? Do you raise your tip percentage, or do you adhere to a standard practice regardless of the situation?
It seems that in the delicate balance of food and drink service, appreciating expertise can certainly deserve a tip greater than the norm. After all, a little knowledge about what we consume not only enhances our experience but also makes for a more engaging atmosphere. Next time you receive exceptional service, especially when a bartender impresses you with their insights, consider how a thoughtful tip might foster that experience for future patrons. Cheers to the art of crafting great drinks and the knowledgeable bartenders who serve them!