How to Get a Drink at a Crowded Bar
Do you become invisible when you belly up to a crowded bar? Learn how to get the bartender's attention—without pissing him off.
Up next in Bar Life & the Art of Drinking (37 videos)
Whether you're in a pub or a club, you'll be the life of the party, bar none, thanks to this Howcast video series on bar life and the art of drinking.
You Will Need
- Money
- Patience
- And courtesy
Steps
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Step 1
Get to the front of the bar
Get to the front of the bar any way you can. You'll need at least one hand on the bar for the bartender to even think of serving you.
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If you're with a bunch of people, send one person to get the drinks for everyone.
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Step 2
Be focused
Don't start talking to one of your friends or a cute stranger trying to pick you up.
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Step 3
Make eye contact
Call out and make eye contact at the right time — when the bartender has finished with another customer.
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Step 4
Flash cash
Flash some cash. It means you know what you want and you're ready to order.
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Cash probably will get you faster service, since a credit card is going to be a pain in the neck for a busy bartender. Plus, they prefer tips in cash.
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Step 5
Smile and be patient
Smile in the direction of the server and wait patiently. Bartenders have eyes in the back of their heads, and they're more likely to reward uncomplaining people than a jerk yelling, "Yo!"
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Step 6
Tip big
If the bar is going to be crowded all night, introduce yourself and leave a big tip. Bartenders like big tips and won't likely forget you. And remember to say "please" and "thank you."
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The median salary for a bartender in the U.S. is around $16,000 a year.
