If you're on a budget but can't pass up your Friday night ritual at your local bar, you may have to think up a clever way to save money. Though the bartender/patron relationship is a tricky one with many fine lines, a fantastic way to save cash at the bar is by flirting with the bartender. Many female bartenders receive attention from male patrons, but the art of bar counter flirtation works just as well with male bartenders. Learn snag his attention so it pays off in drinks.
Instructions
1. Get to know your local bartender, preferably a male one, if you're a lady. If it's your first time at a bar, pull up a chair with some girlfriends and make eye contact with the bartender. Flash him a charming smile and place a $20 bill on the counter.
2. Order a round of drinks without being too choosy. If your friend orders her martinis the way she orders her double shot, extra foam skim milk latte at Starbucks, it's best to order your own drinks. Even opt for a draft beer. If a male bartender sees a gal ordering a Corona when her girlfriends are downing Cosmo's and apple martinis, she's bound to stand out.
3. Strike up conversation when he isn't busy. If your boyfriend just broke up with you, tell him. If you got fired from your job, let him know. Make it personal without being too heavy. Brush it off, smile and expect the drinks to come.
4. Touch him. Lean over the counter a bit and touch his arm lightly when you're in a dialogue or when emphasizing a phrase or point. The key is, men are incredibly visual and respond to touch. He won't soon forget you.
5. Put a good tip down on your first drink. Tip more than you normally would. If he thinks you're generous, he's bound to hook you up with a drink or two. Always tip him on free drinks, as well.
6. Battle for his attention. Men are competitors at heart and by making him a bit jealous (superficially or not) he is bound to try and win your attention. If you want free drinks, strike up a conversation with a good looking guy at the bar. At some point, separate yourself from the guy and get back into a dialogue with the bartender. Roll your eyes and state, "I really wish I could find a good guy. It's so frustrating, you know?" and expect him to fall for it. He will not only try and win your affections by lending an ear, he'll hook you up with free drinks.
7. Frequent your local bar and be friendly to the male bartenders. The more familiar you seem, the more free drinks you can score.
