As an expert sommelier and brewer, I am often asked about tipping for drinks at a meal. Tipping practices can vary depending on the country, culture, and establishment, but I can provide some general guidelines based on my personal experiences and industry standards.
In most countries, it is customary to tip bartenders and waitstaff for their service. When it comes to tipping for drinks at a meal, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, if you are dining at a restaurant where a server takes your drink order and delivers it to your table, it is appropriate to tip for the service. The general rule of thumb is to tip $1-$2 per drink or 15%-20% of your total tab, whichever is higher.
Keep in mind that bartenders and servers work hard to provide you with a pleasant dining experience, so it is important to show your appreciation through a tip. This is especially true if they go above and beyond to accommodate any special requests or provide exceptional service.
However, if you are at a self-service establishment such as a bar or coffee shop where you order your drinks at the counter and serve yourself, tipping may not be expected or necessary. In these situations, the price you pay for the drink typically includes the cost of service. That being said, if you receive exceptional service from a barista or if you are a regular customer, it is a nice gesture to occasionally leave a tip in the jar provided. The Emily Post Institute suggests tipping in such cases when something extra is provided or when you have a longstanding relationship with the establishment.
It is important to remember that tipping is a personal choice and should be based on the quality of service you receive. If you feel that the bartender or server did not meet your expectations, you are not obligated to leave a tip. However, it is always worthwhile to consider the circumstances and give them the benefit of the doubt. Sometimes, factors beyond their control, such as a busy night or kitchen delays, can impact their ability to provide exceptional service.
Tipping for drinks at a meal is generally expected when you are served by a bartender or waitstaff. The amount to tip can vary, but a common guideline is $1-$2 per drink or 15%-20% of your total tab. However, if you are at a self-service establishment or feel that the service was below par, tipping may not be necessary. It is always a good idea to consider the circumstances and show your appreciation for exceptional service when warranted.