Q&A for How to Tip a Bartender

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Who should I tip, the bartender or the server?

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Expert Answer

When it comes to tipping at a restaurant, the process can be intricate, especially with bar tabs. In some establishments, drinks are often added to a tab, making it crucial to tip the bartender separately, typically around $20 as a standard or adjusted based on the number of drinks. It's important to tip bartenders in cash, as the drinks will likely be transferred to the overall check, ultimately affecting the server's tip. Some establishments follow the practice of servers tipping out the bartender with around 15% at the end of the night to account for the inflated check average. However, not all restaurants may have a clear system in place, leading to variations in tipping practices. In this case, you can directly ask your server or bartender how they go about it.

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What percentage do I tip when running a tab and settling at the end of the evening?

Community Answer

About 20%. Take your total and multiply it by 0.2 and that will give you the amount you want to tip, or divide your check by 5.

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Should I tip the bartender or server if they are also the owner of the establishment?

Community Answer

Yes. If they served you, then you should tip them as you would any other employee.

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How should I tip the bartender if I ordered food and tap water but no drinks?

Community Answer

If you are sitting at he bar, you should tip. Bartenders know that everyone can't drink liquor at lunch, or if they are the DD, or on medication. The bartender still has to pour the drink, even if it is water, and if you are at the bar, you are taking up a seat. Depending on how long you are there, and how many waters you are served, you should still tip at least $1-$5 for water.

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Should I tip the bar owner?

Community Answer

It is traditional to tip the one who gives you the service, not the owner. Give it to that server for a gratuity.

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How do I know when I should tip a bartender?

Community Answer

You always tip your bartender. Not tipping is very poor etiquette, not to mention downright insulting.

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Do I tip the server or bartender when ordering a drink at a table?

Community Answer

Tip the server because at the end of the night, the servers have to tip the bartenders for the drinks made for the server's customers.

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What do I tip for a bucket of beer delivered to my table?

Community Answer

One dollar for each of those beers. Just as you would for an individual beer.

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