The ‘Ask a Bartender’ Trick – Find the Best Hidden Spots Fast

Forget tourist brochures and online review sites—if you want to find the best hidden spots in a city, there’s one trick that never fails: ask a bartender. Bartenders are the unofficial gatekeepers of a city’s nightlife, dining scene, and underground culture. They hear about the best places from locals, industry insiders, and other travelers passing through. Whether you’re looking for a late-night eatery, a speakeasy, or a cool neighborhood hangout, a quick chat with a bartender can lead you to the kind of spots you won’t find in any guidebook.

Why Bartenders Know the Best Hidden Spots

Bartenders interact with people all night long—locals, chefs, musicians, and hospitality workers who are plugged into the city’s scene. They overhear conversations, swap recommendations, and often check out new places themselves. Unlike concierges or tour guides, they don’t have an agenda to push mainstream attractions. Instead, they’ll point you to where they would go after their shift or on their night off.

How to Approach a Bartender for Tips

Striking up a conversation with a bartender is easy, but getting the best recommendations requires the right approach. Here’s how to do it:

1. Be friendly, not demanding. Start with a casual conversation before jumping straight to "Where should I go next?" A little small talk goes a long way.

2. Order something first. Buying a drink shows appreciation and makes them more likely to help. You don’t have to get fancy—just order what you like.

3. Be specific with your request. Instead of asking, “What’s cool around here?” try, “Where do the industry folks go after work?” or “What’s the best late-night food spot within walking distance?”

4. Show appreciation for their time. If they give you a solid tip, a small thank-you (or even a good tip on your bill) is a great way to return the favor.

What to Ask for Based on Your Interests

Depending on what kind of hidden spots you’re looking for, tailor your questions accordingly:

For Food Lovers: “Where do the chefs and kitchen staff go to eat after work?” Many cities have late-night spots that cater to industry workers and serve incredible, no-frills food.

For Nightlife Explorers: “Is there a bar or club that only locals seem to know about?” Some of the best spots aren’t advertised online and only spread by word of mouth.

For Unique Experiences: “Do you know of any cool underground events happening this week?” Bartenders are often aware of secret parties, pop-up bars, and unique experiences.

When and Where This Trick Works Best

Not all bars are ideal for this approach. Try to find places that are:

1. Less busy: If the bartender is slammed making drinks, they won’t have time to chat. Go during early evening or on a quieter night.

2. Local or dive bars: Trendy spots and touristy rooftop bars may have staff who don’t live in the city long-term, whereas neighborhood bars attract longtime locals.

3. Cocktail lounges or speakeasies: These bartenders are usually well-connected in the industry and know where to find the best hidden gems.

The Unexpected Perks of Talking to Bartenders

Beyond getting great recommendations, asking bartenders for tips can lead to unexpected perks. You might get:

- Free drinks or samples: If you hit it off, some bartenders might offer a small taste of something special.

- Invites to exclusive events: Industry folks often know about private parties, soft openings, or underground events.

- Insider knowledge of the city: They can share the history behind certain bars, neighborhoods, and local legends.

Find the City’s Best Hidden Spots—One Drink at a Time

Next time you travel, ditch the online lists and try the ‘Ask a Bartender’ trick. Whether you’re hunting for a speakeasy, a secret food spot, or an unforgettable local experience, bartenders hold the key to the city’s best-kept secrets. All it takes is a drink, a conversation, and a little curiosity.