Partaking in rounds of drinks at Irish pubs is more than just a regular event – it’s enmeshed intricately within the fabric of the culture at those drinking establishments. Disrupting this pattern, beware, may stir up quite a storm, even to the extent of damaging social reputations and managing to rupture friendships. The reason boils down to the cultural need to display generosity, which has been a coveted trait dating back to Brehon Law times. Indeed, no one wishes to shoulder the burden of being thought of as miserly. Being part of such a round is somewhat similar to playing a dangerous game with your image. So, let’s acquaint you with some basics.
At a pub, being in the company of two or more individuals immediately implies you are part of a round – a methodical process rather than a mere display of benevolence. Old-school-style rounds would usually continue until someone bails out, falls down or until it’s time for the pub to shut. Although in modern times, patrons generally seem more mindful. However, it’s perfectly fine to call it a day when you wish to, while still adhering to some key guidelines.
It’s crucial not to wait until your pint is completely drained before placing the next order. This is especially important if you’re sipping on a stout. When you notice about a third of your pint remaining, that’s your cue to get moving. If your round isn’t due and you’re gulping down your beer faster than the person whose round it is, a respectful move would be to ease up and slow down. Subtly signalling the person responsible for the current round that you’re ready for another one could be accomplished by taking a large, demonstrative sip and expressing your enjoyment with an exaggerated mmm or ahhh. This implies you’re thoroughly relishing your beer, when in reality, you’re nudging them to get their round going.
Understanding the pricing is key when deciding what to order. If you’re a high-end whiskey aficionado or indulging in upscale spirits, the rounds may not accommodate such luxuries, unless your drinking companions are on the same boat. It’s essential to gauge the vibe before ordering a drink that costs double of others might be having. While you may not earn the ‘stingy’ tag, you could possibly be accused of being pretentious, which isn’t any more desirable. The solution entails either toning down your choices or accepting you’re being a little ostentatious and opting for your own drinks. Alternatively, you might find someone in your group sharing the same taste and willing to team up for a similar order. This way, everyone’s happy and no grievances regarding the drinks are harboured when the night concludes.
Offering to buy a round early in the gathering can endear you to those present whilst memories are still fresh. If your plans only allow for a single drink during your visit, make sure to express this upfront and purchase your individual beverage. Although you may find yourself inadvertently included in someone else’s round before you have the chance to do so. In such cases, be sure to emphasise your intent to reciprocate during the next gathering. If a non-drinker chooses a beverage, they should be incorporated into the round, assuming their non-alcoholic drink is on par in price with a pint. If a soft drink or water is their poison, their involvement in the round may not be mandatory. It’s considered poor form to comment on those abstaining from alcohol intake. In the past in Ireland, such individuals received teasing, but nowadays, most people mind their business and respect other people’s choices.
While fairness is often sought, it is not always achieved in every gathering. Some individuals may eagerly overspend or purchase rounds outside of their turn, and others may seek to dodge their round. The response to this discrepancy often depends on the closeness of the group. Usually, the practice endorsed is silent acceptance followed by continued consumption. Take the initiative to buy a drink for everyone early while you’re still noticed. Investing in snacks when it’s your round is a wise decision. The responsibility of the first round falls to the host or the individual who arranged the gathering. On personal celebratory occasions like birthdays or weddings, you may be advised against buying a round but it’s generally good form to do so. The one who tends to be most observant of everyone buying their round is often the person who makes a big fuss about doing so. Ideally, someone should have a casual eye on keeping score, but nobody wants to be identified as keeping a close tab. The process can be somewhat intricate.
An intriguing concept of “drink karma” was revealed to me by Judith Boyle, a beer sommelier and pub owner, during a conversation about our nervousness concerning drinks rounds. Her approach indicates that it’s essential to be the first to buy a round but avoid worrying excessively about the favour being returned during that session, thanks to drink karma. “There will be individuals whom you will encounter and for whom you would buy a beverage. Their response would be, ‘Oh, I owe you one,’ but my usual rejoinder is, ‘No need, it’s all part of the drink karma.’ In Ireland, your drink always finds a way back to you”, she narrates.
This extract is sourced from “A Compendium of Irish Pints: The Culture, Customs and Craic”, penned by Ali Dunworth and slated for release on May 7th by Nine Bean Rows.