Explain a bar tab to me...?

Question

Everytime I go to a bar, I usually pay in cash. If I open up a tab (for me), what do I have to do or say to the bartender. He says, do you want to keep it open or close it. If I say open, and then later I get another beer, what do I say to him? How does he know my debit card belongs me (and not some other bozo)?

Also, is there a forced gratuity fee?

Answer 1

Just a girl has a really good answer here.  As a bartender, I will associate the card and the drink and the customer in some way.  I might even write the color of his or her shirt on  the check until I get to know them.  The check might have little scribbles on in like 5 stars means it belongs to a good looking girl.  Dollar signs might mean, it belongs to a classy guy. Ballcap, might mean, the dude is a hick.  Every situatiion is different.  When I go out, I usually run tabs with barstaff that I know. It helps me to relax and enjoy when I am not thinking about what I owe, or what is being charged to my card.  Cash is king in a crowded bar.

Answer 2

They put your tab under you card and what you look like (ex: your shirt or a feature). They will bring you a drink whenever you like and there is no forced tip. That is illegal. It's an easier way to keep track of how many you drink and how much you spend.

You can also request to have your card back and pay in cash when you are ready to "tab out". It is up to you.

Answer 3

when you walk in you hand the bartender your card and tell them you want to open up a tab. then whenever you need a drink order it and tell them to put it on your tab, they will know who you are and what to do. then when you leave just say you want to close out your tab. you can tip them whatever you want