Originally Posted by
james318
The option of not tipping exists, but I really don't recommend that if you want a second drink. Ever. And on subsequent visits, hope the bartender doesn't remember you.
Then again, when you build a good rapport with a bartender, it's a good thing. My favorite one was just replaced by Sodexo because he refused to work for them.
I have no problem not tipping and have never received bad vibes from a club bartender when requesting a second drink or on a subsequent visit. There are specific SkyClubs and United Clubs where they know me and fix me my preferred drink even before I ask for it. (To be fair, I have given those specific people a very nice tip around Christmas.)
Originally Posted by
pbarnette
Why not? Is it your experience that other private clubs offer an open bar? Do those clubs with open bar also preclude tipping? Do they also charge as little as $300 in dues?
Bad analogy. Members can access an airline club only on a limited basis (when they are at an airport). Since you could go to a private club in your city as often as you want, it would be quickly bankrupted by an open bar and anything like $300/year dues.
From DL's perspective, the bartender makes a lot of sense. Probably reduces alcohol consumption by increasing the hassle of another drink (especially in a crowded club) and allows the sale of premium drinks. From the customer's perspective, there is little advantage.