I’ve been bartending for over a decade, and I can tell you it isn’t easy.
The job can be physically and mentally demanding while requiring long, late hours — plus, we have to be pretty charming while doing it.
Sometimes customers can make our job better, but at the very least, we’d prefer if they don’t make it worse.
Next time you’re out having a pint or a margarita with your pals, don’t make these mistakes.
Being obnoxious while trying to get a bartender’s attention
The most common customer offense, by far, is waving cash at the bartender, yelling their name, or otherwise trying to get their attention while they’re doing something else.
Most of the time, simply being at the bar without a fresh drink is enough to let the bartender know you want one.
If you really think the bartender doesn’t know you’re waiting to order, some eye contact and a nod will suffice.
Stepping up to a busy counter when you don’t know what you want
If the bar is busy and you have to wait to order a drink, take that time to figure out what you’re going to get.
Don’t lose your spot in line with the bartender by saying “I don’t know” or turning around to ask your friends what they want. They don’t have time for that.
Assuming a bartender’s gender or sexuality
Assuming the bartender’s gender or sexuality is a great way to get ignored for the rest of the night.
Also, if they want to flirt with you, you’ll know. Otherwise, let’s keep it professional.
Trying to order a drink without an ID
Nobody cares about the story behind why you don’t have your ID.
A bartender usually isn’t willing to risk their job or get into legal trouble just to help you out.
Altering special cocktails on the menu
If you want to make your own cocktail recipes, do it at home.
Nine times out of 10, the altered cocktail tastes like garbage and gets sent back. Just order a drink that sounds good to you as listed.
Asking the bartender to play your music
If there isn’t a jukebox, the bar is not interested in hearing your playlists.
Don’t ask the bartender to change the music, play a song, or adjust the volume. They’re not a DJ.
Telling the bartender your first name for your tab
When asked what the name on your tab is, give the bartender your last name.
We know you think you’re the only Brandon in here, but you’re probably not.
Relying on the bartender to remember your drink order
They might remember it, or you might be getting them confused with the other bartender.
Either way, it’s better if you know your own order.
Taking up more space than you need
Be mindful of other people’s space at the bar.
Don’t lean over and take up multiple seats or leave your trash on the patio. And for heaven’s sake, don’t leave a trail of dirty glasses behind you while you’re mingling — just bring your empty cup with you when you come up for your next drink.
The less time the bartender has to spend cleaning up after you, the more time they can spend making everyone’s drinks.
Wasting time by asking what we have
Do you really want me to start listing everything we have? It’s a bar.
Read a menu or be more specific. Asking “What pilsners do you have?” or “What gins do you have?” is perfectly fine. That helps us to narrow it down a bit if we’re going to have to help you figure out what you feel like drinking.
Leaving only a verbal tip
Bartenders love compliments, but those don’t pay the bills.
Remember, we’re working for money. If you really think they make the best margarita in town, show them with a big tip.
This story was originally published on January 7, 2023, and most recently updated on May 29, 2025.
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