So, you’re going to a bar for the first time and you want to order a drink like a pro. You don’t want to look clueless, nervous, or rude. You don’t want to waste time, money, or alcohol. You don’t want to end up with something you hate, regret, or spill. You want to have fun, impress your friends, and enjoy your night out. But how do you do that? How do you order a drink at a bar for the first time?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Here are some simple steps on how to order a drink at a bar for the first time and make it a memorable experience.
Step 1: Choose your drink
Before you go to the bar, you should have an idea of what kind of drink you want to have. There are many types of drinks to choose from, such as beer, wine, cocktails, shots, and mocktails. Each drink type has advantages and disadvantages, depending on your taste, mood, budget, and occasion.
For example:
• If you want something easy, cheap, and refreshing, you might want to try a beer. Beer is a fermented drink made from grains, hops, yeast, and water. It comes in different styles, such as lager, ale, stout, and IPA. You can choose a beer from the bar taps or bottles behind the bar.
• If you want something classy, elegant, and versatile, you might want to try a wine. Wine is an alcoholic drink made from fermented grapes or other fruits. It comes in different colors, such as red, white, rosé, and sparkling. You can choose a wine from the bar menu or ask the bartender for recommendations.
• If you want something creative, flavorful, and fun, you might want to try a cocktail. A cocktail is a mixed drink made from one or more spirits and other ingredients, such as juice, soda, syrup, bitters, or herbs. It comes in different shapes, sizes, and colors. You can choose a cocktail from the bar menu or ask the bartender to make you something special.
• If you want something firm, quick, and adventurous, you might want to try a shot. A shot is a small amount of liquor that is consumed in one gulp. It can be plain or mixed with other ingredients. It comes in different flavors and intensities. You can choose a shot from the bar menu or ask the bartender for suggestions.
• If you want something non-alcoholic, healthy, and delicious, you might want to try a mocktail. A mocktail is a non-alcoholic drink that mimics the appearance and taste of a cocktail. It is made from fruit juices, soda water, and other ingredients, such as syrup, herbs, or spices. It comes in different flavors and colors. You can choose a mocktail from the bar menu or ask the bartender to surprise you. Some examples of mocktails are virgin mojito, Shirley Temple, and ginger ale punch.
Step 2: Order your drink
After you have chosen your drink, you should know how to order it properly at the bar. Here are some basic tips on how to order a drink at a bar for the first time and make a good impression.
• Wait for the bartender to notice you and ask for your order. Don’t whistle, snap, yell, or wave money at them. That’s rude and annoying. Be patient and respectful.
• Speak loudly and clearly, especially if the bar is crowded or noisy. Don’t mumble, whisper, or shout. Use simple and direct language. Don’t use slang or jargon that the bartender might not understand.
• Order your drink by saying the spirit first and then the mixer. For example: “I would like a rum and coke, please.” “Two vodka cranberries, please.” “One gin and tonic with cucumber, please.” This will help the bartender make your drink faster and more accurate.
• If you have any preferences or specifications for your drink, such as the type or brand of spirit, mixer, or garnish, say them after your order. For example: “I would like a rum and coke with Bacardi Gold and lime.” “Two vodka cranberries with Absolut Citron and soda water.” “One gin and tonic with Hendrick’s and Fever-Tree.” This will help the bartender customize your drink to your liking.
• If you are ordering multiple drinks for yourself or others, order them all at once. Don’t make the bartender go back and forth between you and the bar. This will save time and hassle for both of you.
• Pay for your drinks as soon as the bartender tells you the total. Have your cash or credit card ready. Don’t make the bartender wait for you to find your wallet or purse. This will show that you are prepared and courteous.
• Tip your bartender if appropriate. Depending on where you live, it may be customary or expected to tip your bartender. You can leave a cash tip in the tip jar or write a tip on your credit card receipt. In general, you should tip 10%-20% of the bill total. This will show that you appreciate their service and skill.
Step 3: Enjoy your drink
Finally, relax and enjoy your drink once you’ve ordered and paid for it! Slowly sip it and enjoy the flavors. Appreciate the bartender’s talent and craftsmanship in making it for you. If you have any buddies or a date, raise a glass to them. If you’re going by yourself, try the top UK online casinos to keep you entertained while you drink, but remember to have fun and drink responsibly!
Now that you know how to order a drink at a bar for the first time, you can confidently go to any bar and have a great time. Whether you want a beer, a wine, a cocktail, a shot, or a mocktail, you can find something that suits your taste and mood. Remember to be polite and respectful to your bartender, and tip them well. They are there to make your night more enjoyable and memorable. Cheers!
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