After a long day at one of Disney World’s theme parks, few things can be more refreshing than sitting back with a delicious drink. For me, that means something fruity and colorful and… ahem, excuse me, I was daydreaming about Trader Sam’s again.
Cherry Marquee
However, if you’re grabbing a drink at one of Disney World’s lounges, bars, or restaurants, there are some things the bartenders at the “Most Magical Place on Earth” are dying for you to know!
“Complicated Drinks are Not Necessarily Better”
According to a former Disney World bartender, complicated drinks with long and unique ingredient lists are eye-catching and pique the interest of those looking for a unique experience; they are not necessarily better. As they explained, sometimes a classic drink with better alcohol is going to be better than a fancy one with a dozen steps/ingredients. So, if you think you see your bartender side-eyeing a complex cocktail, you may be right.
Polynesian Pearl
“We Don’t Want to Make Certain Drinks When It’s Super-Busy”
Speaking of more complicated mixed drinks, a former Disney bartender was quick to admit that at busier times — and let’s face it, at Disney World there are a lot of “busy times” — they’d actually prefer to not make more in-depth, ingredient-heavy drinks. Top of the list? Mojitos.
Dragon fruit mojito
“Frozen Drinks are Usually Sugar Bombs”
Given the heat that Central Florida is known for, it’s no surprise that frozen (guilty) and sweet (GUILTY) drinks are popular at Disney World! However, a former Disney World bartender was quick to remind us that these drinks are “sugar bombs” full of artificial flavors.
Avalanche Blue Margarita
“A Strong Drink is Not Always a Well-Crafted Drink”
For some guests, the only kind of drink worth having is the strongest possible. However, requests for the strongest drink possible often indicate that a guest doesn’t usually like well-crafted drinks. A really good drink doesn’t need to taste strong in order for it to be potent. Don’t assume because you can’t taste the alcohol in a strong way that the drink is lacking the correct amount of alcohol.
Caramel Corn Old Fashioned
“Don’t Dismissively Wave, or Snap Fingers to Get Attention”
Honestly, this one could fall under the overall headline “Don’t be rude.” It’s totally understandable to be tired, and maybe even a bit cranky after a long day at Disney World. However, there’s no need to take it on a bartender — or ANY Cast Member — with rude or dismissive behavior. If you need to get their attention, you can wait or politely say, “Excuse me.”
Bartenders at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto
“Please Tip!”
Workers in U.S. restaurants, including bartenders, rely on customer tips. That is just as true at Disney World as anywhere else in the country. And yes, even if you are visiting from a country that doesn’t tip, you should tip while you’re at Disney World. Generally, the appropriate tip is anywhere between 18 percent and 20 percent of the cost of your overall bill.
Welcome to The Perch!
If you’re planning to grab a drink on your next trip to Disney World, be sure to keep in mind the things your bartender probably wants to say but won’t! Stay tuned to DFB for more Disney World tips!
Speaking of Disney World tips, these are some of our favorites that run under the radar.
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