Questions about ordering a drink at a bar?

So, I’ve never really ordered a drink at a bar. I have a few questions regarding “bar etiquette”

1. If I order an “old fashioned”, do I need to explain what that is? Or will the bartender already know what it is and how to make it?

2. Are you supposed to open a tab if they ask?

3. How much do you tip a bartender?

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travelguy01 · 41-45, M

As long as you are ordering typical drinks you shouldn’t have to explain to them what it is. If the bartender doesn’t know what an Old Fashioned is then they shouldn’t be a bartender. You can give special instructions like the kind of liquor you’d like, etc., but what the drink is they should know.

Tipping depends. For good service I usually tip around 20% (in USA tipping is expected). But could be less if service is poor.

Opening a tab depends on the bar. It may be easier for you to pay as you go. But some bars may prefer or even require a tab be opened if you are drinking more than one and they are really busy.