Tipping Etiquette: How Bartender Expertise Affects Your Gratuity

Recently, I visited an intriguing new establishment where I had the chance to sample a Belgian gueuze. Anticipating the typical range of mispronunciations, I was pleasantly surprised when the bartender confidently declared, “The guhz is excellent.” Not only did she get the name right, but she also delved into the intriguing details of the wild fermentation process and even recommended a cheese pairing—without prompting from me.

This level of knowledge left me momentarily taken aback. In my experience, many bartenders either shy away from the name or wrestle with its pronunciation while casually pouring the brew. However, this bartender demonstrated a genuine passion for her craft, serving my drink with precision and expertise.

Given my admiration for her proficiency, I chose to tip 30%, which felt right for the exceptional service I received. This encounter got me pondering the nuances of tipping: is there a specific etiquette regarding the knowledge a bartender possesses? Should one’s tip scale according to how well they understand the beverages on offer?

For those who appreciate a bartender’s expertise, how do you adjust your gratuity? If you find someone who knows their craft well and offers thoughtful suggestions, does that influence your tipping decisions? I’d love to hear your thoughts on how to reward skilled service that goes beyond the basic pour. After all, when we encounter a bartender who truly understands the art of their offerings, it certainly enhances the overall experience.