1. Thou shalt never get so drunk that you can't count the money. Bartenders are often encouraged to drink a little during their shift, whether because a regular wants to buy them a shot or the staff needs a morale booster.
It's totally fine to ask for additional liquor in your drink, but be cognizant of the fact that you're changing the taste of the drink, particularly when it's multi-ingredient, original cocktails.
You have to not only be courteous to customers; you also have to offer them some courtesy from time to time. Especially to those who are regulars at the bar. This is an important part of the golden rule. When we talk about courtesy, we refer to a drink or liquor.
“The human interaction is what makes bartenders feel like they're people too. You might run into a gruff bartender who doesn't want to chat, but most are pretty outgoing people. They wouldn't be in this industry if they didn't like talking to strangers.”
Among the many faux pas, don't ever yell, click your fingers — or even wave them. Bartenders hate that.
Everything from why you shake, when you muddle, to the practicalities of the job, and what we call the five 'P's of world class service: pride, passion, preparation, professionalism and presentation.
While they can vary at different establishments, the most common coded phrases include an “angel shot neat,” which means the bartender will arrange for you to be escorted safely to your car. Ordering an “angel shot with ice” signals the bartender to call you a ride.
The general rule of thumb is that every one count is equivalent to one-quarter of an ounce. Most drinks take 1.25 to 2 ounces. That means that to make a vodka soda with 1.25 ounces of liquor, the bartender should count to 5 before cutting off the alcohol.
Being social, outgoing, and friendly will help a bartender succeed, sell more drinks, and keep customers happy. Keep in mind that being friendly and outgoing are very important; the underlying job of a bartender is to sell drinks.
For the uninitiated, the free pour is one that is done by the experienced bartender who can accurately pour out the ¾, 1 oz, or 1.5 oz pour by counting or eyeballing the flow, and does not need to use a jigger or some other method of pour spout regulation.
A good bartender will possess confidence, attitude and personality, but always have respect for customers, fellow staff and their venue. A good bartender will take pride in their appearance and be passionate about their craft.
THEY'LL TEASE YOU
If your bartender's making a special effort to push your buttons, it's likely that they're having a bit of a froth over your face and generally delightful personality. Unlike the nature of kindergarten, however, flirting in the bartending world is more about making fun of your drink choice.
They're busy.
Nine times out of 10, if a bartender is ignoring you, it's because they're doing something else. Even if the bar doesn't seem that busy, bartenders are responsible for a long list of prep work and side work.
Because we expend most of our social energy at work, bartenders often need quiet time on our days off. This can be hard when you're dating a new person. They often expect you to be the fun-loving, energetic bartender personality that they first met, and it can be disappointing when your off-duty vibe is much different.
Some people wonder how many drinks a bartender needs to learn to make when they learn this profession. The International Bartenders Association (IBA) has an official list of 77 drinks. Those drinks are seen as the true drink selection that can be requested at a bar.