Like any social setting, the bar has its rules and its players.  A gentleman should know how to navigate and recognize the gatekeepers of your evening, and when I say “gatekeepers,” I mean “bartender” or “mixologist.”  I recently caught up with one of my top five, Jason Cain, to ask him some questions.  Jason, a gentleman, scholar and master of his craft, was gracious enough to give me one bartender’s perspective on how to rule the night.

So, you roll into a night spot around 10:30pm and the place is BANGIN’.  It’s time to make your way to the night’s oasis and pick your poison.  According to Jason, here are some things to consider:

Efficiency is the new cool – If the bar is packed, prepare accordingly.  Remember that a bartender is there to keep you and about a hundred other people happy.  Try to know what you want before you pony up to the bar. Flashing dollars and cards isn’t always necessary, but can help if you’re trying to let them know you’re ready.  If you’re with a group and covering the round, determine what your friends want before ordering.  Yelling at your friends when it’s your turn and asking them what they want to drink is only going to keep the bartender and the rest of the crowd waiting.  You know how agitated you get when you’re thirsty, so imagine how they feel.

Staying a while?  Be remembered on the return trip – Usually, a respectable tip will ensure the bartender’s attention on your return trip.  Started a tab instead of using cash?  Not a problem.  Being courteous and efficient with your order will go a long way, too.  If you think you might stay in a spot for more than a round or three, it’s common sense not to open and close a tab multiple times during your stay.

Help them help YOU – Vaguely asking your bartender “what’s good?” or asking them to make you something good isn’t the end of the world, but it’s like asking someone to audition for a part with no direction. There’s nothing wrong with a little indecisiveness, but try providing background on what you like to drink and ask for recommendations.

Depending on the rapport you have with your bartender, they can be a great resource when you need a little boost in your game.  Have you ever seen a splash of gorgeous at the bar and wondered what her deal was?  It never hurts to ask your drink doctor what they know if you need some help in planning your icebreaker.  However, keep in mind that while most bartenders are happy to provide what intel they may have, they’re not your personal CIA and it’s not their job to dig for you or make things happen.  They have far more pressing responsibilities!

Rocking bottle service on a special evening?  It’s not a bad idea if you’re rolling 3-4 deep (or more).  Bottle prices are readily available from most establishments that provide the service and that usually includes a spot in the shade.  Bottle costs usually don’t include tip, so be sure to take care of the kind people that see to your comfort and enjoyment.  It’s 2011, so 20% is a good starting spot, gentlemen.

At the end of the day (or evening), your bartender’s goal is to keep you and your guests happy.  Keep in mind that they’re working while you’re playing, so engage them!  Make the night fun for them and they’ll return the favor.  Like and among those of us that make an honorable living, most drink ninjas don’t push Hedge Fund manager salaries.  So … when your bartender takes care of you, remember to take care of your bartender.

Thanks to Jason Cain for letting me pick his brain on some bar etiquette.  You can catch his drink magic at Tap & Go in Mt. Adams on Tuesday nights and behind the bar at Beluga in Hyde Park on Thursdays (I wish it wasn’t closing at the end of the month).  Jason can make the hell out of most anything, but if you see him, ask for the “Eggo Waffle” shot.

Drink responsibly and have fun out there.  You only live once.