The real reason why we tap glasses on the bar is revealed by bartenders

Ever wondered why it is tradition to tap your shot glass on the bar? Bartenders reveal why and the answer is surprising.

Despite many suggesting that tapping your glass on the bar is a way to toast the dearly departed, many argue that is not the real reason people do it. But bartenders have a few thoughts of their own on the matter.

Largely speculation states that it is a way to recognise the bartender for their service, however some also remind that what took off as a trend actually began for another reason.

Paul Kennedy, bartender at The Newport and Creed’s Foggy Dew in Milwaukee revealed: “It’s in honour of a friend or loved one who is no longer with us. But I’ve also been told it’s a salute to the bartender”.

Nate Tomzcuk, who used to bartend at the Safe House and Fanatics Sports Central, but cut his teeth bartending in Manitowoc agreed and added that it is “a sign of respect for the bar and the bartender. Just like people clink their glasses with their drinks or pour a little on the floor for their dead peeps.”

However, Nomad bartender Sammy Mentkowski argued that the real reason it actually began is not linked to respect but necessity.

Mentkowski explained: “It all dates back to the early juke joints, where sawdust was placed on the dance floor for easy cleaning should the necessity arise.”

He revealed: “After particularly raucous wang dang doodles, sawdust particles would fill the air covering everything in the vicinity including the glassware. Tapping the glass on the bar was a way to remove sediment before taking a gulp of that sweet dancing juice.”

Amanda Wisth, who bartended at Joey’s Yardarm in Racine explained that, despite its origins, tapping your shot glass is now used as a form of salute – like a nod of recognition.

She added: “When I was behind the bar and throwing them back with patrons, it was one tap, a wink, and a raise of the glass. To thank them for the (many) shots. As a patron, whether the bartender is joining in or not it’s the same: one tap, a wink and a raise of the glass to thank them for their service. Whether they see it or not, that good energy never hurts.”