Raising the Bar: The State of Trade Etiquette in the Bartending Industry

The Bartending Industry's Unspoken Code

For those in the know, the bartending industry has always been guided by an unspoken code of conduct. A set of unwritten rules that dictate how bartenders should behave when visiting a fellow bar. Be kind, patient, and respectful – it's not just good manners, it's good business. However, rumors are circulating that this code is slowly eroding. Bartenders are whispering about peers who expect free drinks, offer unsolicited critiques, and order complex cocktails without regard for the bar's workload.

What's Behind the Decline in Trade Etiquette?

Mcson Salicetti, a New York City-based mixologist and bar consultant, believes that the COVID-19 pandemic has played a significant role in the decline of trade etiquette. With the rise of online learning and social media, bartenders are no longer relying on mentorship and human interaction to learn their craft. Instead, they're turning to the internet for guidance, which can lead to a sense of entitlement and a lack of respect for their peers.

The Rise of Self-Centered Bartending

The bartending industry has always been competitive, but the pandemic has exacerbated this trend. With the rise of social media, bartenders are now more focused on creating visually stunning cocktails and amassing followers than on providing genuine hospitality. This shift in focus has led to a decline in trade etiquette, with bartenders prioritizing their own needs over the needs of their peers.

Reclaiming the Joy of Service

Damian Keehn, bar manager at Adalina Prime in Chicago, believes that the industry needs to reclaim its love for service. "Everybody wants to be the best now or invent something new instead of putting in a lot of work for what the core of bartending really is," he says. Keehn emphasizes the importance of remembering that, at the end of the day, bartending is about providing a service and making people happy.

What This Means for Bartenders

So, what can bartenders do to reclaim trade etiquette and promote a culture of respect and hospitality? Here are a few takeaways:

• Be mindful of your behavior: Remember that you're representing not just yourself, but your bar and the industry as a whole. Be respectful, patient, and kind when visiting a fellow bar.
• Support industry-friendly bars: Look for bars that prioritize hospitality and community, and support them by visiting and promoting them on social media.
• Focus on service: Remember that bartending is about providing a service and making people happy. Focus on creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, rather than just trying to create visually stunning cocktails.

Getting Back to the Basics

The bartending industry is at a crossroads. With the rise of social media and the decline of trade etiquette, it's time to get back to the basics. By focusing on service, hospitality, and community, bartenders can reclaim their industry and create a more welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for all.

If you're interested in learning more about the bartending industry and how you can get involved, check out our [[bartending programs|/programs]] and [[free guides|/guides]]. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, there's always room to learn and grow in the world of bartending.