Bar tipping, alkie and non-alkie drinks

[Lenore]

I rarely drink, so I'm clueless when it comes to bar and tipping etiquette, but I hang out with people who like drinking a lot so occasionally I'll get something for myself. My first drink was a $6.50 beer that I picked out of a cooler and took to the bar to be opened. I paid with a 10, thinking I would get change and could give a $1-2 dollar tip on that. Instead, the bartender took the ten and assumed the rest was tip. So basically, I ended up paying over 50% for him to flip off the cap. Was I wrong to expect change?

Also, should I tip anything on water (which is what I usually get)? What about non-alcoholic drinks like sodas?

Thanks

[jamesglewisf]

You should have gotten change.

I would probably tip regardless of what kind of drink I got. He is still serving you.

[Kelly]

You definately should have gotten change...

I would tip regardless of what you're ordering.

[Dude111]

Tipping is always a positive thing!

Welcome ashore :)

[tface]

Yes, you should have gotten change. I would tip a buck on non-alkie drinks like soda or juice, but tap water is up to you. Most bartenders do not expect it, but it a VERY nice gesture to throw down a dollar. Not an expected one, though.