Bartender Etiquette

 Tom Bullock (1872 - 1964)

Tom Bullock was the first African-American to write a cocktail book, called "The Ideal Bartender" in 1917.  Bullock was the only African-American to write a cocktail book to this day according to D.J. Frienz, co-author of the reprinted version of Bullocks original work.

 Bullock was born in Louisville, Kentucky shortly after the Civil War . Bullock worked at country clubs from a very young age. Later he became to be a well-recognized bartender of the time at St. Louis Country Club, where he served drinks and cocktails for government officials and other elite members.

George Herbert Walker, grandfather of George W. Bush was one of the big fans of Bullock's cocktails, wrote the introduction to Bullock's book. He spoke of of Bullocks expertise by stating, " I have known the author for many years, and it is a privilege to be permitted to testify to his qualifications. ... In all that time I doubt that he has erred in event one of his concoctions."

Bartender Etiquette

 

1. Keep the Bar Clean
People come have cocktails, relax, and enjoy some down time. This hard to do when dirty glassware  dishes, and/or sticky bartops and tables are present. The cleanliness and organization of your bar is a DIRECT reflection of your skills and experience, so keep your area clean and presentable.

2.  Your Customers should be treated Fairly and Equally
If you’re one of those bartenders who ignores the guy waiting for 10 minutes to help a pretty girl that  just walked up to the bar, then you are being inconsiderate. The “first come first serve” approach is the best approach

3. Mind Your Own  Business
It’s easy for bartenders to overhear private conversations. Keep in mind that most customers  don’t realize that you can hear them. Keep your comments and facial expressions to yourself to avoid uncomfortable situations.

4. You Control the drink limit, Not the patron
All experienced bartenders know you have to monitor the clarity or drunkenness of an individual and make a decision whether or not you can continue to serve them drinks.
It is not fun to limit someone having a good time, but it’s part of the job. By acting responsibly, you reduce the liability of yourself and your establishment.

5.  Good Hygiene is Essential
Wash your hands regularly, shave, wear a clean and ironed uniform every day, keep your nails clean, breath mints on hand, and do not run your fingers through your hair or rub your face. If you’re ill, stay home!

Your hands and fingers should never be near the areas of the glassware that touches your customers mouth. If you have to retrieve an ice cube or a lime wedge from a cocktail, use a clean bar spoon, not your fingers.

6. Take Pride in Your Work
Take the time to learn the correct recipes for the most popular cocktails. You are always a student of mixology, staying current on new cocktails.

7. Tip Protocol
All service staff should only count tips after a shift and not in the presence of the customers.  Always take care in making sure your customer never feels pressured to leave you a tip. If you give good service and make a customer feel special, you’ll get a tip.