On a night out, there are so many things on your mind, and the person serving you your vodka soda is not one of them. However, bartenders are the most important people downtown as they serve you drinks, watch what everyone is doing, and kick those unruly patrons out of the bar, if need be. Here are some of the things you should know about the local bartenders who work so hard for you:
1. They work ALL night long.
Bartenders get to the bar around nine to set up, then they serve everyone in a crazy environment, and finally stay late to clean… which can sometimes last until six in the morning. So you might only be out for a few hours, but they’re actually there all night.
2. They respect the customers who speak nicely and give tips.
Every bartender we talked to noted that the people who were overly drunk were the most annoying and rude, and would usually pick fights with the bartenders. But for those who consistently tip well often, they receive more alcohol in their drinks. Maybe its time to start throwing in at least a dollar with every purchase!
3. They see EVERYTHING.
Whether it’s having sex in the corner, punching the wall, participating in a threesome in the bathroom, peeing your pants, or stealing the tip jar… the bartender KNOWS all. Chances are if he isn’t going to say anything or kick you out, he’s definitely going to remember it and laugh at you later in the night.
4. No, they don’t know where your ID, wallet, keys, or card is.
Chances are while you were busy dancing and lost sight of your belongings, the bartender will have no idea where your things went because he obviously stays behind the bar serving dozens of people. A lost item could be anywhere around Five Points and yelling at the bartender won’t help you find it.
5. They can tell who the freshmen are!
Freshman, you may think you’re getting away with looking and acting like an upper classman, but you’re probably not. Bartenders can often tell if you’re a freshman based on how drunk you get and what your order is. For instance, a more experienced drinker would say “Rum and Coke” instead of naming the mixer before the alcohol.
6. They have seen some really weird things.
Every night, something weird and funny always happens. According to the bartenders we talked to, most of these stories involve someone peeing themselves, needing to urgently go to the bathroom, or some form of sex in the bar. When we asked this question, we usually received, “Oh, there’s so much more, I just don’t remember everything.” So next time you’re in Five Points, just remind yourself that while you and your friends may not remember the night, the bartender will!
*Special shout out to the bartenders of Moosehead, Pour House, and Horseshoe in Five Points, Columbia!