Waiting too long for a drink at a crowded bar can be frustrating, especially when you’re eager to enjoy the night. Whether you’re at a busy nightclub, a high-energy sports bar, or a laid-back cocktail lounge, getting the bartender’s attention quickly can make all the difference. Fortunately, a few smart strategies can help you skip the long wait and get served faster.
But what if you didn’t have to wait at all? With a Mobile Ticketing App like SipSkip, you can order drinks online, pay in advance, and book your spot – so you never waste time waiting at the bar. Apps like Discotech Nightlife App also help ease nightlife experiences, from event bookings to cover charge payments.
If you’re stuck in a traditional bar setup, here are three expert tips to get served faster when ordering drinks.
1. Be Prepared Before You Reach the Bar
Bartenders appreciate customers who know what they want and are ready to order. The more efficient you are, the faster they can serve you. Here’s how to prepare before you even approach the bar:
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Know your Order in Advance
Before stepping up to the bar, decide what you want to drink. Hesitating or asking for recommendations during peak hours can slow down service for you and everyone else waiting. Stick to popular and simple drinks, as complex cocktails take longer to make. Ordering a beer, a vodka soda, or a whiskey on the rocks is usually quicker than requesting a multi-ingredient cocktail.
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Have Your Payment Ready
Nothing slows down service like fumbling for cash or searching for a credit card after the bartender has already made your drink. Whether you’re paying with cash, card, or a mobile payment app, have it ready before you order. This helps the bartender complete the transaction swiftly and move on to the next customer.
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Avoid Large, Complicated Orders
If you’re ordering for a group, keep it simple. Instead of requesting five different cocktails with custom modifications, consider Ordering Drinks a round of the same drink. Bartenders can make identical drinks faster, and you’ll get back to your table sooner.
2. Make Yourself Noticeable Without Being Rude
Getting the bartender’s attention in a packed bar can be tricky, but there are right and wrong ways to do it. Here’s how to stand out without annoying the staff:
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Find the Best Spot at the Bar
Avoid standing behind a group that’s already ordering or in a crowded cluster of customers waving for attention. Instead, position yourself in a clear, open spot along the bar where the bartender can easily see you. Areas near service stations (where drinks are being handed off to servers) are not ideal, as bartenders prioritize serving wait staff first.
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Make Eye Contact and Smile
A simple way to get noticed is by making eye contact with the bartender and offering a friendly smile. This subtle gesture signals that you’re ready to order without being pushy. Avoid snapping, yelling, or waving money – this will likely annoy the bartender and cause them to serve others first.
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Be Patient but Ready
Bartenders remember polite and respectful customers. Instead of being aggressive, stay relaxed but prepared to place your Ordering Drinks as soon as they approach. If the bar is busy, showing patience and a positive attitude can work in your favor. Bartenders often prioritize customers who make their job easier.
3. Tip Well and Build a Good Relationship
Bartenders tend to remember generous tippers and friendly customers. If you’re planning to order multiple rounds throughout the night, tipping well early on can lead to faster service later.
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Start with a Strong First Impression
If you’re at a bar for the first time, make an effort to tip generously on your first order. Even a slightly higher tip than usual signals that you value their service. In return, the bartender may recognize you and prioritize your orders as the night progresses.
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Order Directly from the Bartender
If you have the option, order straight from the bartender rather than a server or other staff. Bartenders often remember repeat customers, and by maintaining a direct interaction, you’re more likely to get faster and more attentive service.
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Build Rapport with the Staff
If you frequent a particular bar, getting to know the bartenders can work in your favor. A friendly conversation, remembering their name, or asking about their night (without holding up the line) can establish a connection. Regular customers who show appreciation are often rewarded with quicker service and better drinks.
Skip all these steps at SipSkip! Just book your drinks in advance, pay online, and enjoy a smooth experience – no small talk or long waits needed!
Why Wait? Get Your Drinks Faster with SipSkip!
Ordering Drinks While these tips can help you get served faster in a traditional bar, there’s a better way to enjoy your night. At SipSkip, we eliminate the wait entirely!
- Order drinks via our Mobile Ticketing app
- Pay online—no need to fumble for cash or cards
- Book in advance to skip the rush
- Skip the line & Pick up your drink instantly at the bar—no waiting!
Why waste time waiting when you could be enjoying your night? Download the SipSkip app today and experience a new way to drink – faster, easier, and stress-free!