The Art of Tipping: How Expertise Changes the Game at the Bar

Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting a new bar that offered a delightful selection of beverages, including a Belgian gueuze. As a fan of craft beer, I typically brace myself for the inevitable mispronunciations that accompany exotic names. However, to my surprise, the bartender confidently pronounced it as “the guhz” and proceeded to share her extensive knowledge of the wild fermentation process behind it. She even suggested a cheese pairing without me prompting her, which left me in a state of awe.

It’s not every day you come across a bartender who truly understands the intricacies of what they’re serving. Most tend to either avoid attempting foreign names altogether or mispronounce them with an air of confidence, but this bartender was different. She demonstrated genuine expertise and passion for her craft, enriching my experience far beyond the average bar visit.

In light of her exemplary service and knowledge, I found myself grateful and tipped a generous 30%. This encounter raised an interesting question: Is there a tipping standard based on a bartender’s level of knowledge and skill? Should we adjust our gratuities based on their ability to not only serve a drink but also enhance our experience through their insights?

Do you take into account a bartender’s expertise when deciding on the tip? Is there a so-called “sliding scale” for how much more you’re willing to give for a perfect pour and informed recommendations? It certainly made me reflect on the relationship between service quality and etiquette in tipping—especially when it comes to those rare individuals who elevate the bar experience from simply drinking to something truly memorable.

Share your thoughts below! How do you tip when a bartender not only knows their drinks but can also expertly guide you through their menu?