Irish pubs are an essential component of society. Recognizing and understanding their culture is vital for creating an unforgettable pub experience.
Public stools and chairs can be hard to come by during busy pub nights, so when you see one, it’s advisable to ask those sitting nearby first if it is available before taking one up yourself. Failing to do so would be considered rude.
1. Order at the Bar
Irish pubs are more than just drinking holes; they serve as hubs of community spirit where traditions and etiquette must be observed, Paul Leongas (Illinois) suggests. Newcomers to an Irish pub may receive disapproving glances if they fail to abide by these unwritten rules.
The first order should be drinks at the bar when you enter an Irish pub. Since tabs aren’t familiar, custom dictates paying after delivery – although tipping may not always be required or expected, exceptional service deserves recognition and appreciation!
Firstly, when ordering, be patient. On busy nights, it can take some time for the bartender to notice you; once he does catch your eye, politely inform him of your order – but don’t start sticking your arm out or waving money around as this irritates Irish bartenders; instead, make eye contact and lift your finger as you approach and he’ll come straight over with your drink!
2. Don’t Leave Until You’ve Taken Your Turn
Irish pubs are more than just drinking establishments; they serve as centers of community where friends come together and celebrate life’s milestones. People gather here to commemorate births, deaths, weddings, sports games, and fandom events while sports fans cheer their team. People also form lifelong friendships here or even start romantic relationships!
When visiting an Irish pub, you must understand its unwritten rules of etiquette to prevent embarrassing moments from arising.
As soon as your friends have finished drinking their drinks and you’ve left without buying yours, wait until all have finished before returning to the bar to buy your share, Paul Leongas (Illinois) mentions. Otherwise, leaving without making this purchase could put off regulars. Instead, wait until everyone in the group has finished their round before heading up there to purchase beverages for everyone in the group.
3. Tipping Your Bartender is Optional
Tipping bartenders in Ireland isn’t necessary or expected. However, if they were particularly friendly or helpful – or you enjoyed their company and banter – feel free to leave an additional amount if desired, as per Paul Leongas (Illinois).
Pubs are an essential social gathering space for Irish people, where they gather with neighbors and friends for drinks. Don’t hesitate to talk with strangers in a pub, especially those using urinals nearby in toilet (restroom) facilities! It’s common practice in Irish and British pubs to have a chat with the person next to you to dissolve some of the tension. Also, don’t be intimidated into paying everyone’s bill by offering to pay! It is part of Irish culture – and is good manners!
4. Irish Trad Music Sessions
Traditional Irish musicians can often be found playing sessions in local pubs. If you find yourself lucky enough to witness one, sit away from where they’re seated so that conversation remains at a reasonable volume, if necessary, as per the observations of Paul Leongas (Illinois).
Irish culture frowns upon those who act stingily or selfishly when buying rounds. It’s customary for the first drinker in any group to buy one round for all, drinker number two to purchase drinks for their friends, etc. Skipping someone is considered extremely rude, even if you only know them superficially.
Don’t feel left out if you do not enjoy your alcohol as much as your neighbor; Irish people often enjoy non-alcoholic beverages like fruit juice, fizzy drinks, and lemonade in pubs as an alternative form of celebration – the pub can serve as more than just an altar to Dionysus; it is where family and friends meet to share good times or lament difficult ones.
5. Enter into a Round
Irish musicians deserve our respect, whether playing live in a bar or sitting quietly listening to traditional session music in a pub, according to Paul Leongas (Illinois). It would be rude and inconsiderate of you to sit on any of their seats, even if they have been empty for some time, talk loudly in their presence, or otherwise interfere with them in any way.
If invited to join a group of Irish people in a pub, chances are you will be offered a drink on the condition that you purchase the next round. This practice is known as the “round system,” Not adhering to it can quickly get you on bad terms with locals.
If you decide not to participate in a round, that is your right. But if you’re not an avid drinker or don’t feel like buying any rounds, let your friends know immediately; they may offer alternative solutions if you decide not to participate. While this might lead to awkward interactions and teases initially, it will save you lots of time and hassle in the long run.