How to Order a Drink at the Bar

Have you ever been that person in a busy bar or nightclub who the bartender points to, asking what you want and you're still thinking about it? That is a big no-no. Even if you've never been that person, read on to find out the proper way to order a drink at the bar.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Money for a drink

1. In order to purchase a drink, you'll first have to get the bartender's attention. A lot of people hang out by the bar area, so if you're going to get a drink have your money or credit card ready and make eye contact with the bartender.

2. You should know what you want and if you don't, ask the bartender to make or suggest something. If it's busy at the bar, the bartender doesn't have time to wait for you to think about it while standing in front of them. But, if it's not busy, you could even look through a drink menu or take your time. Remember that if you're considerate with your bartender, they'll be considerate with you.

3. Order your drink, but make sure to speak loud and clear when doing so. If you're ordering more than one of the same drink, say the number first, such as "Two Heinekens." With the exception of "Red Bull vodka" or "Rum and Coke," you should say "with" when ordering a mixed drink that has two or more items.

4. Pay for your drink. You can either pay with cash or with a credit card. If you pay with a credit card, you'll probably be asked if you'd like to keep your tab open. This means that they'll hang onto your card at the bar and whenever you order a drink, they'll add it to your bill. If your tab is opened, you don't have to tip until you close your tab and get your bill.

5. Make friends with the bartender. This will certainly make it easier to get their attention the next time you want a drink. It also shows that you're a social person and bartenders appreciate it. If they recognize you when you come back at other times, you might even get a free drink every now and then.

Tips & Warnings

• If you'll be having a few drinks, keep your tab open and tip at the end of the night. The tip will always seem more to the bartender than if you were tipping smaller amounts each time you got a drink and paid for it then.
• If you have a tab open, go back to the same bartender. That's why it's important to get their name.
• Don't be impatient with the bartender, they are serving something that will be going into your body after all.
• Don't forget to close your tab at the end of the night.