Bartenders Are Sharing Their Unspoken Rules That They're Tired Of Everyone Breaking

Last month, Reddit user u/SnowmanINC asked, "Bartenders of Reddit, what are the unspoken rules that [people] need to learn again?" Bartenders answered with examples that people — especially in 2022 — need to stop doing.

Here's what they said to teach the newbies what is and isn't ok!

1."Have your order ready when I get to you — don't start asking people what they want! It just takes up unnecessary time that I don't have."

—u/SnowmanINC

2."Speak up! There’s loud music and screaming all around me!"

—u/skyphoenyx

3."'Ummm, what beers do you have?' Look at the taps. I'm making a cocktail right now and I need to focus on what else this guy is ordering."

—u/Suddenly_Anxious17

4."Don't wave your hand. Even with money — still don’t. We know you are thirsty — that’s why you are there."

—u/SnowmanINC

5."Don't touch my shit (shakers and whatever)!"

—u/Reasonable-Grand-167

6."Don’t stand in front of my service well. Servers need their drinks and you’re in the way."

—u/Sechrest26

7."Don’t ask me — the service bartender, who makes servers' drinks — questions when I’m making drinks for servers. There are other bartenders behind the bar for this very reason."

—u/Sechrest26

8."Chain ordering is a sin. Like when they say, 'Can I get a____? Wait, I also need a ___. And a ____. Sorry!"

—u/skyphoenyx

9."If you're a friend or know me, don't pressure me for free drinks. I'll try to give you what I can."

—u/qwertylaura123

10."I’m coming! Stop slapping the bar, telling me your order as I walk past, or waving!"

—u/skyphoenyx

11."Do not pick up or help yourself to my bitters. And don't pick them up just to read what they are. Those are my tools, hands off."

—u/Sechrest26

12."Don't fucking eat out of the fucking fruit tray. That fruit is meant for drinks, not for your grubby fingers!"

—u/RaoulZDuke

13."Don't be on the phone when you're ordering a drink. It prolongs the whole process."

—Anonymous

14."Don't be like one of those people who tries to negotiate. Seriously, I don't own the bar, and I'm not in any position to give you discounts without taking it from my tips."

—u/Phr4gG3r

15."People always send back the drink for not being strong enough. I, the bartender, know exactly how much I poured in your drink. You got 2.25 oz. altogether of spirit. If your face doesn't scrunch up in disgust, that's because it's a FUCKING COCKTAIL and it's SUPPOSED to taste good."

—u/cmosa

16."When they ask for another drink after closing time. I can't."

—wagamamalullaby

And lastly:

17."TIP OR STAY HOME!"

—u/skyphoenyx

Fellow bartenders, did they miss any? Let me know in the comments below!

Responses/prompt edited for length/clarity.