Additional Coverage:
- A bartender shares the 5 red flags she always looks for at a bar (businessinsider.com)
Choosing the right bar for a night out can be tricky with so many options available. Stephanie Ridgway, who has extensive experience working in bars and distilleries and now serves as the director of brand advocacy for Charles Jacquin et Cie, offers insight into key warning signs that signal a less-than-stellar bar experience.
Cleanliness Matters, Especially When It’s Slow
Ridgway emphasizes that a dirty bar is an immediate red flag. Sticky countertops, soiled towels, and grimy glassware suggest the staff may not take pride in their work.
This is particularly concerning if the bar isn’t busy-since slow periods are the perfect opportunity to tidy up. While it’s understandable for a bar to get messy during a busy Friday or Saturday night, encountering a messy bar in the middle of the day usually means it’s best to look elsewhere.
As the industry saying goes, “Time to lean is time to clean.”
Beware of Overusing Batched Cocktails
While having a few popular cocktails prepared in batches can speed up service, Ridgway cautions against overreliance on premixed drinks. Part of the appeal of a quality bar is watching the bartender craft your drink with care and flair. The visual experience of mixing a fresh cocktail adds to the enjoyment, so a bar that serves too many drinks straight from a large jug may be sacrificing quality for convenience.
Professionalism Counts: No Intoxicated Staff
Spotting a bartender who appears intoxicated is a clear sign to walk away. Although bartenders may share a sip with regular customers occasionally, they must remain fully in control while on duty. Patrons should expect their drinks to be made by someone attentive and sober.
Respectful Service Is Essential
A bartender’s attitude can make or break your visit. Ridgway notes that dismissive behaviors-like eye-rolling or rude responses to drink orders-are unacceptable. Customers deserve courteous service in exchange for their hard-earned money, and poor treatment is often a dealbreaker.
Quality Spirits Reflect Quality Standards
At craft cocktail bars or upscale venues, paying attention to the liquor selection is worthwhile. Ridgway points out that while bars need to manage costs, settling for low-quality spirits is not justifiable.
With many excellent, reasonably priced options available, a well-stocked bar should avoid using inferior products. For example, a martini made with cheap gin is unlikely to impress.
By keeping an eye out for these signs, patrons can better navigate the bar scene and avoid disappointing experiences.
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- A bartender shares the 5 red flags she always looks for at a bar (businessinsider.com)