I’ve been bartending for over a decade and I can tell you it’s not easy.

This job can be physically and mentally demanding, often requiring long hours of late work, and we have to be quite charming while working on it. Sometimes clients can make our work better, but at least we would prefer that they not make it worse.

Next time you’re out for a pint or margarita with your friends, don’t make these mistakes.

Being unpleasant when trying to get a bartender’s attention.

The most common customer offense, by far, is waving cash at the waiter, yelling his name, or trying to get his attention while 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 waiter doesn’t know you’re waiting to place an order, a little eye contact and a nod will do the trick.

Approaching a busy counter when you don’t know what you want

If the bar is full and you have to wait to order a drink, use that time to decide what to order.

Don’t lose your spot in line with the bartender saying “I don’t know” or turning around while ordering to ask your friends what they want. Many times they don’t have time for that.

Trying to order a drink without ID

No one cares about the story behind why you don’t have your ID.

Typically, a bartender isn’t willing to risk their job or get into legal trouble just to help you.

Ask the waiter to play your music.

If there’s no jukebox, the bar probably won’t be interested in listening to your playlists.

Don’t ask the waiter to change the music, play a song, or adjust the volume. They are not DJs.

Modification of special cocktails on the menu.

If you want to make your own cocktail recipes, do it at home.

Whenever possible, try to order a drink that sounds good to you just as it appears on the list.

This is especially important in a crowded bar, when customizations can get lost in the shuffle or make an order too complicated. Plus, if you’re playing with something you’ve never tried before, the modified cocktail may not taste very good and ends up being returned.

You just tell the waiter your name for your bill.

When asked what the name is on your bill, give the waiter your last name, not your first. Most of the time, it will help speed up the process.

We know you think you’re the only Brandon here, but you probably aren’t.

Trust the bartender to remember your drink order

Unless the bar is almost empty, asking the bartender for “another” is not a smart move.

They may remember your order, but they may not. In some cases, they may be confused with the other waiter at the counter.

Either way, it’s best if you know your own order and just repeat it.

Takes up more space than you need

Be aware of other people’s space in a bar.

Do not bend over, occupy multiple seats, or leave trash on the floor. And for the love of God, don’t leave a trail of dirty glasses behind you while you socialize; Just bring your empty cup when you come for your next drink.

The less time your bartender has to clean up after you, the more time you can spend making drinks for everyone.

Wasting time vaguely asking what we have

Do you really want me to start listing every single product we serve? It’s a bar.

Read a menu or be more specific when you have a question. Asking “What pilsner do you have?” or “What gins do you have?” It’s perfectly fine.

Those types of questions help us narrow down the options a bit if we’re going to have to help you figure out what you want to drink.

Leaving only a verbal tip

Bartenders love praise, but it doesn’t pay the bills.

Remember, we are working for money. If you really think they make the best margarita in town, tip them big.

This story was originally published on January 7, 2023 and was last updated on July 21, 2026.