Heading to the bar with friends gives you a chance to catch up and relax or kick off a long night of dancing. However, if you don't go to bars often, you may not know the proper protocol when ordering alcohol. Whether you're in a crowded place during happy hour or at a secluded hole-in-the-wall, your bartender will appreciate you practicing the following bar etiquette.

How to Order Alcohol

1. Learn Bar Lingo

Become familiar with some basic bar vocabulary to avoid confusing yourself or your bartender. For example, terms such as "dirty" and "neat" have nothing to do with your glass' cleanliness but instead mean you want more olive juice in your martini or less ice in your whiskey. Your bartender will understand you better, and your drink will come out quickly if you know the lingo.

2. Become Familiar With the Basics

Sticking to the basics will help lessen your learning curve at a bar. Experimenting with different beers and wines is fine, but knowing your preference between an IPA and a wheat beer will help you have a more enjoyable experience. Leave the brewing temperatures and fermentation methods to the experts and enjoy your tried and true drink.

3. Be Courteous

Bartenders are trained to be hospitable, and they would rather see you satisfied than groaning about lousy service. Treat them like the experts they are and don't be afraid to ask questions if you have them. Be polite, and strike up a conversation if they're not too busy.

If you’re looking for a late-night cocktail, check out Barrel & Brew in New Milford, NJ. With an outdoor patio, lively DJs, and karaoke, this liquor store and bar is stocked with enough craft beer, drink mixers, and alcohol to keep the party going. Visit their website for a look at their beer list or call them at (201) 261-4400 to learn more.