'I'm a bartender - customers should never make this rude comment when ordering drinks'

Bartending is not an easy job. Long shifts that stretch past midnight, endless clean-ups, and memorising dozens of cocktails are just a few of the challenges bar staff face. Yet, despite its demanding nature, many veteran bartenders become beloved figures in their local pubs.

Whether it’s offering friendly conversation on slow nights or remembering your favourite drink, bartenders have a unique way of making a night out just that little bit better.

In return, it's only fair to ensure you’re not making their shift any harder than it needs to be. There are a few comments and actions that are best avoided when you're out at the bar.

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Speaking to the Daily Record in 2023, Claire Twist, an event bartender and bar trainer at Off to Work Edinburgh Academy, shared some important tips on how to be a considerate customer.

First and foremost, if a bartender isn’t making your drink exactly as you’d like, resist the urge to flaunt your own bartending experience. They’re professionals too, and every bartender has their own style and pace.

Claire explained: "If I had a pound for every time someone has said 'I work in a bar you know' or 'I do it like this actually'. If you have a specific way you'd like your drink prepared, I’ll happily accommodate you – but it’s better if you tell me before I start making your drink."

The veteran bartender also said that staff hate it when you try to grab their attention, as they already know who's due to be served next.

"As hospitality professionals we’re here to serve you, but I think clicking fingers at a bartender is just plain rude! The same goes for leaning right across the bar, trying to get served next," Claire said.

"Trust that the bartender serving is a professional, and will be keeping an eye on who’s next to be served. I teach new bartenders that a quick 'I’ll be right with you' can help reassure customers that they’ve been seen."

And there's a good chance that you've spoiled your bartender's night if you have left your chewing gum in your empty glass during a night out.

"Either people don’t realise that someone has to put their hand in to collect the used gum, or they don’t care," the bartender explained. "One simple rule: if you wouldn’t do it at home, don’t do it in a bar!"

While there are plenty of ways to make a bartender's shift harder, there are also simple actions that can make their job a little easier.

For instance, if you're placing a large order that’s tricky to remember, it's much better to hand it over in writing. It saves time and ensures accuracy, making the whole process smoother for both of you.

Claire said: "We’ve all been to a bar or restaurant where the hospitality staff memorise your long and complicated order. Well, this takes practice!

"If you have a long list of drinks, don’t try to remember it. Use your notes app or a piece of paper and write it down. At the very least, you’re saving yourself any hassle if you forget your mate’s drink."

She also recommended ordering in a group, adding: "If you and a friend want two of the same cocktail, but want to pay separately it’s helpful for your bartender to make the cocktails in one batch."

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