How Much to Tip a Bartender
15–20%
Tip a bartender $1–2 per beer or simple drink, or 15–20% of the tab when you run one. Give more for complex cocktails or when the bar is slammed and you still got quick service.
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Within the 15–20% range for bartender.
How much to tip, situation by situation
| Situation | Typical tip |
|---|---|
| Beer, wine or a simple pour | $1–2 per drink |
| Crafted cocktail | $2–3 per drink or 20% |
| Running a tab | 15–20% of the tab |
| Free drink from the bartender | Tip what it would have cost |
| Hotel or event open bar | $1–2 per drink |
Bartender tip on common prices
| Price | 15% | 20% |
|---|---|---|
| $25 | $3.75 | $5.00 |
| $50 | $7.50 | $10.00 |
| $75 | $11.25 | $15.00 |
| $100 | $15.00 | $20.00 |
| $150 | $22.50 | $30.00 |
| $200 | $30.00 | $40.00 |
Worth knowing
- Tipping on the first round is fine and often gets noticed.
- Cash tips on each round are the classic bar habit, but card tips at close-out are just as normal now.
Working it out by hand? See how to calculate a tip. Travelling? Customs differ abroad: tipping by country.
Questions people ask
Do you tip per drink or per tab?
Either. Per drink ($1–2) is typical when paying as you go; 15–20% of the total is typical when you close a tab.
Do I tip at an open bar at a wedding?
The host often tips the bar staff, but a dollar or two per drink is still a kind gesture if there is a jar.