Using the Word "Try" at a Bar

I usually use the word "sample" if I explicitly want just a taste (mainly because I was following the example of others). There never has been any confusion with that term.

 

"Mind if a get a little taste?" is what I always ask.

But yeah I have had bartenders pour me full pints when I say "Can I try that?"

 

They let you do it with ice cream, so WTF!

 

OP, sounds like you're a server and thus in the service industry. I'd say the burden is on you to clarify. Just the reality of it.

 

I bartend as well, and I find that a quick, "would you like a taster or do you want a full glass?" usually solves the problem. I assumed this post was going to be about people asking to "try" nine different taster glasses before picking something different entirely.

 

I guess I am partially guilty. When I would like to "try" (taste) a beer; I ask "May I try the XXXX ?" I think my use of "May' indicates my intent and the bartender has the option of telling me to pound sand.

 

If I use the word "try" I'm implying that I've never had the beer before, give me a full pour. If I want a sample, I ask for a sample.

 

The English language is such an abused language. Just asking them if they want a sample seems like the easiest solution.

 

At the Toronado San Francisco, the bartender's response to anymore asking for more than one "taster" (if you're lucky enough to even get that first taster) is "This ain't 31 Flavors pal!"

 

I order exactly the same way.

 

I sympathize and you're not insane, but unless the above request is being broadcast to all past, present and future patrons your request will do little good. Look on the bright side, if you've had just one miscommunication regarding this in half a year, I'd say things are working out amazingly well.

 

Try=full serving.

Taste(r) or sample=taste(r) or sample.

 

I've bartender for a few years and still do once or twice a week on the side right now. I definitely can relate to this, and it seems to go about 50/50. I've learned that I can usually tell just by tone/context with about 90% accuracy what the customer means. On the occasion it is still ambiguous, a simple "would you like a sample or a pint?" typically suffices.

 

I say try while I do the thing with my index finger and thumb

 

I never get a sample at a bar. I always know what I'm going to be drinking. As far as style goes. To me asking for a sample especially if it's busy is a pain in the ass for the bartender.

 

I make sure to use the word "taste". Using the expression of "have a little taste" is even more explicit.

I personally do not use the word "sample" because several of my local beer bars provide sample glasses (e.g., 6-8 ounce small glasses) as well.

Cheers!

 

I never get samples or tasters of a beer... Don't think you can really get the full essence or flavor from a sip or 2 but if I was to do it I would ask for a sample.

 

No. Stop it. Don't do that anymore. Try saying the word "taste". See how easy it was, and nobody has to see you finger things.

 

Well, around here at least, when you get a taste, it's generally a couple ounces, which is certainly enough to tell if the beer is what you're looking for.