Irish pub offers bar do's & don'ts to survive the summer holiday season
With many spending their holidays catching up with friends and family for a relaxed drink at their local watering hole, Harrigan’s Irish Pub in the Hunter Valley have shared some of their top ‘bar etiquette’ do’s and don’ts to ensure the most enjoyable experience.
“We always get asked the best way to get a barman’s attention, or how to get the best possible service at a pub? So we thought it would be fun to share some trade secrets as people enjoy their break this summer,” say’s Chris Codd, Duty Manager, Harrigan’s Irish Pub.
Chris and his team recommend the following;
DON’T: Jump the queue. Relax, it’s the summer holiday for goodness sake!
DON’T: Wave your money or click your fingers. That’s a sure way to ensure that you will be ignored. On purpose. We were all created equal, so let’s show one another the respect we deserve.
And speaking of respect, talking on your mobile phone whilst ordering drinks is also a big “no no” says Chris.
DON’T: Name drop. If you know the owner or someone who works there, it’s great as a conversation opener for a bar chat. But, don’t use the words “do you know who I am” or “I know the Manager, etc.” and expect to be either given a discount, or the star treatment. We know what happened the last time a certain politician’s wife tried that...
DO: Have your order and money ready. There’s nothing more testing to a bartender than a busy bar with a long queue and a customer who may or may not have been born under the Libran star sign. You know the one, they take 5 minutes (which seem like hours) deciding what they will have. Always a good idea to let others head in to place their order whilst you and your tastebuds make an executive decision.
DO: Tip the bar staff! Tipping in general will get you well looked after, but it’s certainly not expected for every drink. If the bartender goes out of his or her way to get something for you, or you have a complex drink order i.e. several cocktails, or special requests like “cherries on the side”, you should definitely tip.
DO: Bring your empty glass back to the bar. This will make staff notice you and will ensure prompt service from them. As this is generally rare, bar staff will think that you arrived from the far away land of “beertopia” and will undoubtedly treat you like a king.
DO: Have a designated driver. We have definitely evolved as humans from our predecessors in the 70’s, so let’s face it, drink driving is just NOT cool. Always have someone on hand who can get you home safely. Alternatively stay the night, preferably at Harrigan’s Accommodation!
DO: Have a fantastic time! It’s a great time of year to enjoy with our loved ones, so make the most of every day.
And for those looking to extend their celebrations Harrigan’s has fantastic 4 star accommodation on site to provide a wonderful Hunter Valley experience, with some great special deals on offer.
For further information regarding events, functions or accommodation at Harrigan’s, contact 02 4998 4300 or visit www.harrigans.com.au