What Are the 7 Bar Etiquette Tips You Should Know?

1. Wait Your Turn at the Bar

One of the most important aspects of bar etiquette is being patient. When you walk into a busy bar, don’t crowd the bartender or the people already at the bar. Wait your turn and be courteous. Acknowledge the bartender’s presence, but don’t shout orders or wave your hand around frantically.

Polite Gestures: If the bar is packed, try making eye contact with the bartender to signal that you're ready to order. This subtle approach goes a long way in maintaining a calm, organized atmosphere.
Avoid Interrupting: If the bartender is busy with another customer, be patient and wait for them to finish before ordering. Interrupting or rushing them can lead to delays, and it’s simply rude.

2. Know How to Order

Ordering at the bar may seem straightforward, but there are some nuances that can make the process go much more smoothly.

Be Clear and Specific: When placing an order, be specific about what you want. If you're ordering a drink like a whiskey neat or a beer on draft, be clear about the specifics. This will save both you and the bartender time and reduce any confusion.
Don’t Overload the Bartender: If you’re ordering for a group, try not to overwhelm the bartender with a long list of drinks all at once. Instead, ask for drinks in batches or one at a time.

3. Tip Generously

Bartenders rely on tips as a significant part of their income, and tipping appropriately is a sign of respect for their service. The standard tip in most areas is 15-20% of the total bill. However, if the bartender is particularly attentive or the service is excellent, consider tipping more.

Cash Tips: While credit card tips are perfectly fine, cash tips are often preferred because they are given immediately, and the bartender doesn’t have to wait for the payout.
Tip Based on Service: If the bartender is working hard in a busy environment and still provides excellent service, make sure your tip reflects that.

4. Don’t Hover Over the Bartender

Once you’ve ordered, avoid hovering at the bar, especially if you’re not waiting for another round. Keep conversations brief and avoid crowding the bartender’s workspace. Giving them space to move efficiently ensures everyone is served quickly and keeps the environment comfortable for all patrons.

Respect Space: If you're waiting for your drink, stand off to the side, or take a seat at an available table instead of leaning over the bar. This way, the bartender has the room to work without feeling cramped.

5. Keep Conversations with the Bartender Short and Friendly

While it’s great to chat with the bartender, remember they are there to work, not entertain. Keep your conversations friendly, but avoid monopolizing their time when they are busy. You can always continue your chat once they have a moment to spare.

Know When to Step Back: If the bar is crowded or the bartender is clearly busy, it’s best to keep your conversation brief and leave the small talk for quieter moments.

6. Don’t Over-Order or Overindulge

It’s important to know your limits when enjoying drinks at the bar. Ordering too many drinks at once or drinking excessively can make you a burden on the bartender and other patrons.

Order Responsibly: Drink at a moderate pace, and avoid over-ordering. If you’re with friends, try to pace your drinks so you all enjoy the night safely.
Stay in Control: Remember that your behavior impacts the overall atmosphere of the bar. If you’re intoxicated, it’s a good idea to stop ordering and enjoy the company around you instead.

7. Be Polite and Thank Your Bartender

Bartenders work hard to ensure everyone has a good time, so a simple thank you goes a long way in showing appreciation for their efforts. Politeness is key to creating a positive atmosphere at the bar for both customers and staff.

Small Gestures: After receiving your drink, don’t forget to thank the bartender with a smile or a nod. A little kindness can brighten their day, especially during busy shifts.

Conclusion

Bar etiquette is an essential aspect of enjoying your time out while ensuring a smooth, respectful experience for both you and the bartender. By following these seven tips, you'll improve your interactions at the bar, contribute to a positive atmosphere, and enjoy your time out even more.

At Lombardi’s Bar & Grill, we pride ourselves on creating a welcoming and enjoyable environment for all our guests. Whether you're visiting for drinks, dinner, or a night out with friends, we invite you to experience our top-notch service and delicious menu offerings. Contact us today to make a reservation or learn more about our latest events and specials.