The Ultimate Guide to Bar Etiquette: How Not to Be 'That Person'

Ok, ok. We know you've seen them. We've all seen them. And yes, you've probably done a couple of these things, too. Snapping your fingers. Whipping out your phone at the bar. The list goes on.

Bars are social gathering spots. They're neighborhood fixtures. They're also businesses serving captive crowds. When everyone understands the lay of the land, service moves faster, the energy improves, and the night stays safer for all. 

Whether you're looking for a new bar hangout in Minneapolis, coming to grips with first-date bar etiquette, crushing trivia night, winning big on pull tabs, or settling in for happy hour with friends, here's how to avoid rookie mistakes at the bar. Don't worry, we're not judging, but when everyone practices strong bar manners, service moves faster, the energy improves, and the night stays safer for all. Let's raise the bar (pun absolutely intended) on bar etiquette at our neighborhood watering holes.

How to Get the Bartender's Attention (Without Being That Person)

If you've ever wondered how to get a bartender's attention without looking impatient or rude, start here.

They see you staring. You want to order a drink, but you don't know how to ask without sounding rude. Bartenders stay busy. They manage drink tickets, communicate with food runners, keep tabs on tabs, and monitor an entire room. When you make their job easier, they give you better service. It's that simple.

Read the Room & Find a Spot With Space

Strong bar etiquette starts with awareness.

Look around. Notice where customers stand. Step into the open space at the bar. Don't crowd the service well as that's where bartenders stage drinks for servers.

Make eye contact and wait to be greeted. You don't need to wave anyone down.

Put your phone away if you're ready to order, since we all know that using your phone at the bar while a bartender is trying to make eye contact slows service for everyone. Be prepared to order when the bartender acknowledges you.

This is hugely important in the Minneapolis bar scene. Downtown spots get slammed before games and after shows. Plan to arrive 10-15 minutes early and you'll cut your waiting time at the bar in half. Showing patience while waiting at the bar keeps the night smoother for everyone.

One Round, One Ticket

Want instant bar crowd etiquette points? Order efficiently.

Know what you want. Know your modifications. Order for the whole table at once. These are the basics of bar tab etiquette 101:

If you're opening a tab, say it clearly.
If you're paying per round, stick to it.

Don't send the bartender back five times because you "want one more." Decide. Order. Smile. Tip. 

What NOT to Do

These are some of the biggest bartender's pet peeves, and avoiding them instantly improves your bar manners:

• Don't snap your fingers
• Don't whistle
• Don't shout
• Don't tap your glass
• Don't wave money in the air
• Don't lean across the bar
• Don't interrupt another customer mid-order

If your drink takes longer than expected, don't shout then either.

Busy nights happen, especially in Minneapolis. Practice patience. Respect bar crowd etiquette. The bar gets packed. Accept it.

Thankful customers are remembered customers (and they're more likely to see those free peanuts next time).

Green / Yellow / Red Moves

Green

• Make eye contact
• Be ready to order
• Thank the bartender

Yellow

• Raise your hand once if needed
• Politely change a drink before it's made

Red

• Snap your fingers
• Yell at staff or patrons
• Lean into employee workspace

Tipping 101: How Much Should You Tip the Bartender?

We're glad you asked. Like any strong bar etiquette foundation, tipping at bars shouldn't feel confusing or awkward.

Simple Rule of Thumb

If you open a tab:

• Tip 18–20% standard
• Tip 20%+ for great service or craft cocktails

If you pay per drink:

• $1–$2 for a round or simple pour
• $2–$3+ for specialty drinks

Wondering how much to tip for cocktails? If the bartender shakes, stirs, layers, blends, or garnishes your drink with effort, lean toward the higher end.

Respectful tipping means thoughtful tipping.

When the Line Gets Long

Large parties often include automatic gratuity. Ask or check your bill before tipping twice.

Ordering from a self-serve area? Adjust expectations accordingly.

If service truly disappoints, adjust your tip, but do it wisely, not emotionally.

Patience defines good bar crowd etiquette. No bartender wants to lose income because a kitchen runs behind or 300 people pack into the dining room.

Tip Tips

Do tip percentages change by location? Possibly. Bartending seasons and service models evolve, and tax rules also change.

When in doubt, ask. Most bars post their policies clearly so it's always a good idea to use your best judgment.

Common Rules for Bar Games

Winning isn't everything. Just care about playing responsibly and enjoying the night.

Trivia Night

Not sure about trivia night rules? Here's your cheat sheet:

• Listen to the host
• Don't yell answers
• Turn in answer sheets on time
• Accept close results gracefully

Losing well shows strong bar etiquette.

Remember, trivia isn't Google. Don't rely on your phone at the bar to search for answers. Your fellow trivia nerds want a level playing field and the judge won't allow it.

Planning your next trivia outing? Check out The Rabbit Hole's live events calendar.

Pull Tabs, Bingo & Other Minnesota Favorites

Everyone loves pull tabs, especially when they benefit charitable causes across Minnesota.

Play the polite way:

• Buy tab games without blocking the bar
• Smile and accept defeat if you lose
• Follow house rules printed on the tab

Bonus points: Pay attention to your limits. Drinking responsibly always wins.

Darts, Pool & Barcades

Follow these simple rules for traditional bar games:

• Call your shots
• Don't slam darts or balls
• Wait your turn
• Don't hover over players
• If you break, rack the next game

Even dive bars have their own sets of unofficial rules and traditions, which is why understanding basic dive bar etiquette matters. Observe first, then join in. Respecting the space, taking turns, and keeping noise in check shows solid bar manners. And even small actions, like waiting patiently for your turn, handling games responsibly, and following posted rules, keep everyone safe and ensure the night stays fun for all.

When to Call It a Night (And Not Be Asked to Leave)

Trust us, bartenders love when guests know when to call it a night.

Signs You've Had Enough

• You spill drinks (more than twice)
• You raise your voice
• You lose your phone or wallet
• You start disagreements
• You tell the same story three times

We see it every night. Your alternatives? Switch to water. Order a pizza. Grab a Lyft. Ask your designated driver for a lift home.

Taking care of yourself is the epitome of excellent bar etiquette and reflects some of the most important bar safety tips you can follow, plus it ties directly into drinking responsibly. Knowing when to leave, being mindful of your behavior, and knowing your limits ensures both you and your company have a positive experience. 

Closing Your Tab Like an Adult

Closing your tab properly is one of the simplest ways to show respect at the end of the night.

Always close your tab when you're ready to leave. Check your bill first. Then tip accordingly. Thank your bartender, and then walk out like the adult you are.

There's also bar tab etiquette, and then there's tipping your bartender for watching over your drunk friend.

If your friend misses the "goodbye train":

• Order them water
• Get them food
• Get them home
• Step outside with them if needed

Never let your friend disrespect the staff. Bartenders protect your friend. That's solid bar safety, and some of the best etiquette around.

Pace Yourself with Zero-Proof Moves

Drinking moderately is cool. Period.

Alternate Your Drinks

Space every alcoholic drink with:

• Non-alcoholic cocktails or beer
• Soda
• Water

Bartenders appreciate guests who take care of themselves, and you'll thank yourself later, too. 

Grab an Appetizer

Food slows absorption, and sharing appetizers helps you pace drinks with friends. Browse The Rabbit Hole's menu for food pairings that will help you and your friends throughout the night.

If you are stopping by for happy hour, just remember to follow happy hour etiquette:

Happy hour isn't all day, and don't argue when specials end.

Remember to always check out The Rabbit Hole's current happy hour specials, and if you're staying awhile, settle your sweet tooth with dessert.

Bring Your A-Game

So that's our take on bar etiquette 101. If you and your friends think you're all up for a night out, bring your best selves to The Rabbit Hole. From trivia night rules and pull tabs to late-night drinks and live music, we keep it friendly, fair, and fun. And if you ever have a question about house rules, ask a bartender. They'll be happy to help.