Secrets Bartenders Wish You Knew Before Ordering a Cocktail

Introduction

Did you know bartenders in Arizona can usually predict what you’ll order without you even saying a word? Decades of experience have taught them how to read people. They’ve seen it all—rookie errors, strange requests, and slow drinks that bog down service.

It looks simple: ordering a cocktail. But life in the bar is another thing. Some drinks are more difficult to make than you think. Some take a long time to make when the bar is busy. And yes, bartenders have pet peeves.

Continue reading if you wish to impress your bartender and receive superior service. The following are five secrets bartenders wish customers knew before ordering a cocktail.

Not All Drinks Are Easy to Prepare Bartenders in Arizona 

Some cocktails take seconds, while others require precision, patience, and additional tools. When the bar is packed, your choice of drink matters.

Consider an Old Fashioned, say. It’s a straightforward combination of whiskey, sugar, bitters, and ice. But a good one takes effort. The sugar must dissolve, and the ice must be stirred perfectly. One hurriedly prepared one won’t have the same taste.

Now consider a Mojito. It requires muddling fresh mint, measuring lime juice, and shaking enough. On a slow evening, this is no issue. But in a rush, it’s a nightmare for bartenders.

If you enjoy complicated cocktails, okay! Just have some patience. If the bar is busy, opt for something faster, such as a whiskey sour or gin and tonic.

Custom Orders Can Slow Everything Down

It isn’t always bad to change a cocktail. Some requests, though, require extra time or don’t sit well.

It appears easy to take a “less sweet” Margarita as an example. But how little? Without an understanding, the bartender will have to guess. The same applies to “light ice” or “extra strong.” These alterations can disrupt the balance of a drink.

And then there are nonsensical requests. A dry Daiquiri? That’s all rum and lime juice. A vodka Mojito? It’s possible in theory, but it won’t be the same.

If you want a modification, be definite. Want it less sweet? Order half syrup. Want a potent cocktail? Order a spirit-led classic, such as a Negroni.

Your Drink Choice Says More Than You Think

Believe it or not, your beverage of choice can say a lot. The bartenders in Arizona can usually tell whether you’re a rookie or a pro.

For instance, getting a Long Island Iced Tea on a first date? That’s a red flag. It yells, “I want to get drunk quick.” On the other hand, a Manhattan or Martini says confidence.

And then there are popular beverages. Espresso Martinis are all the rage now. Have one, and your bartender realizes you’re joining in on the newest cocktail fad. There’s nothing terrible about that! But if you’re looking to differentiate yourself, try something different. A Paper Plane or Last Word will wow.

The takeaway? Drink whatever makes you happy, but consider how it will be perceived.

Tipping Well Gets You Better Service

Let’s discuss tipping. Bartenders in the U.S. count on tips. A typical tip is $1 per beer or 20% of the price of a cocktail.

Here’s the way it goes: bartenders remember good tippers. Tip well; they’ll fill your order quicker, recommend excellent drinks, and even treat you to a free round. Bad tippers? They get the minimum.

One significant error is skipping a small tip on a complex drink. If you order a handcrafted cocktail that takes five minutes to prepare, don’t just leave a dollar. Be kind.

Do you need VIP service at your go-to bar? Tip well and be friendly, and you’ll always receive excellent service.

Don’t Order a “Strong” Drink Without Preparing to Pay More

One of the largest bartenders in Arizona pet peeves? People who order a strong drink but don’t want to pay extra for it.

Here’s the thing—cocktail recipes are there for a reason. They balance mixers, alcohol, and flavors just right. If you want more alcohol, that’s okay. Just be prepared to pay for it.

Rather than ordering, “Make it strong,” ask for a double. Order a spirit-forward drink, like a Negroni, Old Fashioned, or Martini. By definition, these contain more alcohol without sacrificing balance.

And no matter what you do, don’t order a “double” in a complex cocktail like a Mai Tai. That’s not the way it is.

Last Thoughts: Be a Better Bar Guest

It’s not so much about choosing a drink when you order a cocktail as it is about understanding how the bar operates. When you respect the process, the service and beverages improve.

Be tolerant of complicated cocktails. The bartenders in Arizona specific with special requests. Tip generously and courteously. And if you desire more spirits, be prepared to pay for them.

Now that you’re in on these secrets, you’ll have a better time at the bar. And who knows? Your bartender could become your new best friend. Cheers!