Who’s on their feet all night mixing the best drinks in town? Who’s following industry trends and serving innovative drinks? Who’s always ready to listen with an open ear? Your bartender! These guys (and girls) work hard, and we think bartenders deserve thanks and celebration every day of the year: here are five small ways to celebrate your bartender year-round.
Visit Your Favorite Bartender
Bartenders love people. After all, it’s why they do what they do! Visit your favorite bartender on National Bartender’s Day and let them know they’re appreciated. No gifts are necessary of course, but a little bit of socializing goes a long way. In fact, many bartenders say it’s the best part of their job! This time, turn the tables and find out more about the person pouring your drinks. Are they a local or a transplant? What inspired them to start bartending? What’s the craziest night they’ve had? Bartenders do a lot of listening, but you might be surprised at what you learn when they start talking!
Tip Your Bartender Generously
A 20% tip, or roughly $1 for every $5 in drinks, is a good rule of thumb when it comes to how much to tip a bartender for good service (and delicious drinks). To say thank you, consider adding an extra dollar or two. It might not feel like much, but anything above the average will send a clear signal that you appreciate your bartender and recognize them for doing a fantastic job.
Buy Your Bartender a Drink
Buy your bartender a drink! These folks know good cocktails, so use this as an opportunity to say thank you while you learn from the experts. Ask your bartender what their favorite drink is and order two, including one for them to enjoy while you toast to one of the oldest professions in the world. Don’t take offense if they pass, some bartenders are prohibited from drinking on the job. If your bartender declines the offer, just roll the money you would have spent on their drink into an even more generous tip.
Tell Your Bartender Thank You
Like many in the service industry, bartenders put in a lot of time and dedication to ensuring guests have great experiences. Say thank you, and watch their face light up in excitement. Everyone appreciates being recognized for working hard, and bartenders are some of the hardest working people we know. Long hours, late nights, and lots of orders to juggle can be tiring, but most bartenders will tell you they have one of the best jobs in the world.
Visit the Bartenders at McCray’s Tavern Smyrna
In this new year, make it a point to pull up a chair at McCray’s Smyrna Tavern and introduce yourself. Our bartenders genuinely enjoy getting to know guests while crafting delicious, high-quality drinks behind the bar. From traditional favorites to unique cocktails, there’s nothing they can’t whip up.
