If you are asked to tip the person that scoops your ice cream or pours your coffee, then it’s reasonable to think about how we should be tipping those that work in taprooms. While they are not traditional bartenders, they are providing a service so a tip is necessary.
Furthermore, most breweries hire people that have knowledge and passion for craft beer. This means they can assist you in understanding beer styles and explaining the brewery’s beer philosophy. In addition, they maintain the cleanliness of the taproom and do much more than just pour beer.
So here are my thoughts on tipping when at a taproom.
What Percent Do You Tip?
It’s uncomfortable to discuss money and the percent that a person tips is often a taboo topic.
But this is the internet so hopefully we can be a little more transparent and help each other learn rather than hiding our tipping practices.
At some point, I heard that a tip should range from 10-20% depending on the quality of the service. But as time progressed, it appears that that has shifted to 15-20%. And I feel that most people recommend the 20% level.
I’ve always found it odd that we tip based on a percent of the bill. If I order a less expensive meal, the server should make less money? Seems like the level of work would be the same.
Regardless, this is the system that we have so let’s address how tipping works within the taproom and the factors that should be considered.
How Much To Tip Your Taproom Bartender
The $1 Dollar Per Drink Rule
A long time ago, I was told that you should tip $1 per drink when at a bar. Seemed like good advice so typically I follow this rule. This takes the math out of the situation and prevents handing the bartender change when tipping in cash.
However, I will say that if you order a cocktail that takes a lot of effort to make then consider doubling that tip to $2.
But that has nothing to do with craft beer which is quite easy and quick to serve. So the $1 rule fits when ordering craft beer at your local taproom.
Time Is A Factor
If you are at a taproom for an extremely long time, then you may want to tip based on time spent rather than drinks poured.
For example, if you are at the taproom for 4 hours and have 3 beers, a $3 tip doesn’t seem like much. My advice would be to take that into consideration and bump up your tip.
Flights
My article about Pints vs Flights discussed how many people love ordering flights; while other prefer pints.
I am a flight kind of person.
Keep in mind that it takes much longer to pour the multiple glasses in a flight compared to a pint; so your tip should reflect that effort.
For that reason, I say to tip at least $2 tip when ordering a flight.
Growlers, Howlers, and Crowlers
Ordering beer to go? Should you tip?
Yes, when ordering beer to go, you are preventing them from serving someone else. Which means they aren’t able to earn tips while helping you.
In addition, many bartenders will rinse out the container and ensure it gets filled to the top. A tip shows your appreciation for their extra effort.
For those reasons, I think a tip is reasonable when getting a growler filled for the road.
Retail And Bottle Releases
What about when you are buying beer at a brewery but it’s in retail format/pricing.
For example, grabbing a six pack on the way out the door or attending a special release event.
For these scenarios, there isn’t an easy answer. The person processing the sale is probably a bartender that relies on tips for their pay. However, tipping on retail prices is not common.
However, running into a taproom to buy packaged beer to go is very similar to having a growler filled but it doesn’t take as long. Definitely consider a tip if you have lots of questions or need help deciding what to buy.
However, for a special bottle release, I don’t think tipping is needed. And I justify this on the premise that the release is probably driving a lot of traffic to the taproom and most customers will have a drink or two before leaving. This means they will have an opportunity to earn a tip at that time.
Read More About Craft Beer: The Ideal Flight Of Craft Beer
Final Thoughts
Taproom bartenders work hard. They are asked to take care of a ton of people at one time while keeping the glassware and taproom clean. It’s a demanding job.
In addition, they provide more than beer when they are knowledgeable about the brewery and craft beer.
But tips are not required and they should always be based on your experience. My thoughts are just suggestions that I’ve heard along the way. Use them as a guideline and a place to start.
In my opinion, I would rather over-tip and make someone’s day rather than under-tip and ruin it.
It’s a “golden rule” thing to me and I think most people want to pass on good vibes.