Order Drinks Like A Pro: Bar Guide

Hey guys! Ever feel a bit overwhelmed when you step up to a bustling bar? Don't sweat it! Ordering a drink should be a fun and relaxed experience, not a nerve-wracking one. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to order like a pro. We'll cover everything from understanding bar lingo to making informed choices, so you can impress your friends (and maybe even the bartender!) with your newfound skills. Let's dive in and turn you into a bar-ordering aficionado!

1. Knowing Your Drinks: A Crash Course

Before you even think about approaching the bar, it's a great idea to have a general idea of what you might want to drink. This doesn't mean you need to memorize every cocktail recipe, but understanding the basic categories of drinks will make the process much smoother.

Liquor: Liquor, also known as spirits, forms the backbone of many cocktails. Think of it as the foundation upon which your delicious drink will be built. Common liquors include vodka, gin, rum, tequila, whiskey, and brandy. Each has its unique flavor profile, and knowing the basics can help you narrow down your choices. For example, vodka is known for its relatively neutral taste, making it versatile for mixing. Gin boasts a distinctive botanical flavor, often featuring juniper. Rum offers a sweet and molasses-like taste, while tequila brings a distinctive agave flavor to the table. Whiskey comes in various styles, from the smoky notes of Scotch to the sweet character of bourbon. Finally, brandy, typically made from grapes, provides a rich and fruity profile. Understanding these base flavors will help you select a drink that aligns with your taste preferences.

Cocktails: Cocktails are mixed drinks that combine liquor with other ingredients, such as mixers, juices, and syrups. The world of cocktails is vast and varied, offering something for every palate. Classic cocktails like the Martini, Old Fashioned, and Margarita have stood the test of time for a reason, each delivering a unique and satisfying experience. More modern cocktails often experiment with different flavor combinations and techniques, pushing the boundaries of mixology. Exploring the cocktail menu can be an adventure in itself, but knowing some of the fundamental cocktail families can help you navigate the options. For example, sours typically combine liquor, citrus juice, and a sweetener, creating a balanced and refreshing drink. Highballs consist of liquor mixed with a non-alcoholic mixer, such as soda water or tonic water. Understanding these categories will allow you to make informed choices and discover new favorites.

Beer & Wine: Beyond liquor and cocktails, beer and wine offer a wide range of options. Beer comes in countless styles, from light and crisp lagers to hoppy IPAs and rich stouts. Understanding the basics of beer styles can help you choose one that suits your mood and preferences. For instance, lagers are often refreshing and easy-drinking, while IPAs boast a prominent hop bitterness and aroma. Stouts offer a dark and roasty flavor profile, often with notes of coffee or chocolate. Similarly, wine offers a diverse spectrum of flavors, from dry and crisp whites to bold and tannic reds. Understanding grape varietals like Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon can guide you towards wines that match your taste. Whether you're a seasoned beer or wine enthusiast or just starting to explore, there's a world of flavors waiting to be discovered. Don't hesitate to ask the bartender for recommendations – they're often happy to share their expertise and help you find the perfect drink.

2. Bar Lingo 101: Decoding the Bartender's Language

Bars have their own unique lingo, and knowing some key terms will not only make you sound like a pro but also ensure you get exactly what you want. Let's break down some common phrases and requests you might encounter:

"Neat" vs. "On the Rocks" vs. "Up": These terms refer to how your liquor is served. "Neat" means the liquor is poured straight from the bottle into a glass at room temperature, with no ice. This is a way to appreciate the pure flavor of the spirit. "On the rocks" means the liquor is poured over ice, chilling the drink and slightly diluting it as the ice melts. This is a popular choice for many liquors, especially those with strong flavors. "Up" means the drink is chilled, typically by stirring or shaking with ice, and then strained into a glass without ice. Martinis and Manhattans are often served "up."

"Mixer" and Common Mixer Requests: A "mixer" is a non-alcoholic beverage that is combined with liquor in a cocktail or highball. Common mixers include soda water, tonic water, club soda, ginger ale, cola, juices (such as cranberry, orange, and pineapple), and syrups. Knowing your preferred mixers will allow you to easily order highballs or request specific variations on cocktails. For example, you might order a "vodka soda" (vodka with soda water) or a "gin and tonic" (gin with tonic water). You can also customize your drinks by specifying your mixer preferences, such as requesting diet cola or a particular brand of ginger ale.

"Call Liquor" vs. "Well Liquor": This distinction is important if you have a preference for specific brands. "Well liquor" refers to the standard, often less expensive, liquor brands that the bar uses for most mixed drinks. These are typically stored in the "well," which is the area in front of the bartender. "Call liquor" refers to a specific brand of liquor that you request by name, such as Grey Goose vodka or Maker's Mark bourbon. If you have a preference for a particular brand, be sure to specify it when ordering. Ordering a call liquor will usually result in a slightly higher price, but it ensures you get the flavor and quality you prefer.

Understanding Beer Sizes and Draught vs. Bottled: When ordering beer, you'll encounter different size options and service styles. "Draught" or "draft" beer is beer served from a keg, typically through a tap. Draught beer is often fresher and may have a slightly different flavor profile compared to bottled beer. Bottled beer is, of course, beer served in a bottle. Bars typically offer various sizes of beer, such as pints (16 ounces), half-pints, and pitchers. Be sure to specify the size you want when ordering. If you're unsure about the beer selection, don't hesitate to ask the bartender for recommendations or to sample a small amount before committing to a full pour.

3. The Art of Ordering: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you're armed with drink knowledge and bar lingo, let's walk through the process of actually ordering a drink. Follow these steps for a smooth and successful experience:

1. Approach the Bar with Confidence: The first step is simply approaching the bar with confidence. Make eye contact with the bartender to acknowledge their presence and signal that you're ready to order. Don't be afraid to make your way to the bar even if it's crowded – bartenders are adept at spotting who's next in line. A friendly smile and a positive attitude can go a long way in ensuring a pleasant interaction. Avoid hovering too closely or trying to cut in front of others; patience and politeness are key.

2. Make Eye Contact and Get the Bartender's Attention: Once you're at the bar, it's important to get the bartender's attention. Making eye contact is the most effective way to do this. Avoid waving your hands or snapping your fingers, as this can be seen as rude. If the bar is busy, be patient and wait for the bartender to acknowledge you. They're likely juggling multiple orders and will get to you as soon as they can. A simple "Excuse me" or a nod can also be effective in signaling that you're ready to order.

3. Clearly State Your Order: When it's your turn to order, speak clearly and concisely. State your order in a polite and straightforward manner. Start by specifying the type of drink you want, followed by any specific instructions or preferences. For example, instead of saying "I want a drink," say "I'll have a gin and tonic, please." If you have a preference for a particular brand of liquor, be sure to mention it. If you're ordering for multiple people, it can be helpful to group similar drinks together to make the order easier for the bartender to remember. For example, you might say "Two vodka sodas and a beer, please."

4. Be Specific About Your Preferences (e.g., brand, mixers): Don't be afraid to be specific about your preferences. This is your chance to customize your drink to your liking. If you have a favorite brand of liquor, mention it when you order. If you prefer a particular mixer, be sure to specify it. You can also request specific garnishes, such as a lime wedge or an olive. The more specific you are, the more likely you are to get a drink that you'll truly enjoy. However, be mindful of being overly demanding or complicated, especially when the bar is busy. A polite and reasonable request is always appreciated.

5. Ask Questions If You're Unsure: If you're unsure about what to order, don't hesitate to ask the bartender for recommendations. They're experts in their craft and can often suggest drinks based on your preferences. Describe the flavors you enjoy or the type of drink you're in the mood for, and they can offer suggestions. You can also ask about the bar's specials or signature cocktails. Bartenders are typically happy to share their knowledge and help you discover something new. Remember, there's no such thing as a stupid question – it's better to ask than to end up with a drink you don't like.

6. Confirm Your Order and Price: After placing your order, it's always a good idea to confirm it with the bartender. This ensures that there are no misunderstandings and that you'll receive the correct drinks. Repeat the order back to the bartender or ask them to confirm it. You can also ask about the price of the drinks to avoid any surprises when you pay the bill. This is especially important if you've ordered something that isn't on the menu or if you've requested a call liquor, which may be more expensive.

7. Pay and Tip Appropriately: Once you've received your drinks, it's time to pay the bill. Most bars accept cash and credit cards, but it's always a good idea to check beforehand. When paying, it's customary to tip the bartender for their service. A standard tip is 15-20% of the total bill, but you can adjust the tip based on the quality of service. If you're paying with cash, you can either leave the tip on the bar or hand it directly to the bartender. If you're paying with a credit card, you can add the tip to the total amount on the receipt. Tipping is a way to show your appreciation for the bartender's hard work and attentiveness.

4. Bonus Tips for Bar Etiquette

Beyond ordering, there are a few general etiquette tips that will make you a welcome patron at any bar:

• Be Patient: Bars can get crowded, especially during peak hours. Be patient and wait your turn to order. Don't try to cut in front of others or demand the bartender's attention. They're working hard to serve everyone as quickly as possible.
• Be Polite and Respectful: Treat the bartender and other patrons with respect. Use "please" and "thank you" when ordering, and avoid being rude or demanding. Remember, bartenders are people too, and they appreciate being treated with courtesy.
• Don't Over-Order: Know your limits and don't order more drinks than you can handle. Over-intoxication can lead to problems for yourself and others. Drink responsibly and be aware of your surroundings.
• Tip Appropriately: As mentioned earlier, tipping is an important part of bar etiquette. Show your appreciation for the bartender's service by tipping appropriately.
• Don't Camp Out at the Bar: If you're not actively ordering drinks, avoid taking up valuable space at the bar. Move to a table or other area to allow other patrons to order.

Conclusion: Cheers to Your Newfound Bar Skills!

So, there you have it! You're now equipped with the knowledge and skills to order drinks at a bar like a seasoned pro. Remember to be confident, polite, and specific with your orders. Don't be afraid to ask questions and explore new drinks. And most importantly, have fun and enjoy the experience! Cheers, guys! Now go out there and impress your friends with your newfound bar-ordering expertise.