How Much to Tip at a Bar
At a bar, tip $1-2 per drink for simple pours (beer, wine, shots) or 18-20% of your total tab for cocktails and table service. If running a tab, tip on the full amount at the end.
How Much to Tip at a Bar
Need to split items individually? Forks does that automatically.
Download Forks FreeBar tipping is simple once you know the rules. For quick, simple drinks — a draft beer, a glass of wine, a straight shot — $1 per drink is the minimum and $2 is generous. For cocktails that require mixing, muddling, or creative preparation, $2-3 per drink or 20% of the drink price is standard.
If you are running a tab, tip 18-20% of the total when you close out. This is easier than tipping per drink and ensures your bartender is fairly compensated for the whole night.
For bottle service or large group bar tabs, 20% is the standard baseline. If a bartender is making a dozen cocktails for your group, they are dedicating significant time to your party.
Pro tip: tipping well on your first drink often gets you better (and faster) service for the rest of the night. Bartenders remember generous customers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you tip per drink or on the total tab?
Both work. If paying per drink, tip $1-2 per drink. If running a tab, tip 18-20% of the total when closing out. Either way, your bartender gets fairly compensated.
How much to tip on a $100 bar tab?
On a $100 bar tab, tip $18-20 (18-20%). If the bartender made many complex cocktails or provided exceptional service, $25 (25%) is generous and appreciated.
More Tipping Guides
Calculate the right tip for a large group dinner. Many restaurants add automatic gratuity for parties of 6 or more — here is how to handle it.
Do You Tip on Takeout?Should you tip for takeout orders? Yes, 10-15% is standard. Here is a calculator and guide for tipping on pickup orders.
How Much to Tip at a BuffetBuffets still have servers who clear plates and refill drinks. Tip 10-15% at buffets. Calculate your buffet tip here.
How Much to Tip at a Coffee ShopShould you tip at coffee shops? Here is a guide: $1-2 per drink or 10-20% for complex orders. Calculate your coffee shop tip.