In a recent TikTok video that’s quickly gone viral, bartender Michelle Raleigh, known as @michellebellexo, is setting the record straight on a common misconception about ordering drinks “no ice.” Her light-hearted yet informative clip addresses the myth that asking for a drink without ice automatically means a higher alcohol content. Here’s a breakdown of her message and what customers should really expect.
Key points
The Myth of No Ice: More Alcohol for Free?
Many patrons believe that ordering a drink “no ice” means they’re getting more alcohol. They think that removing ice will make room for extra liquor, leading to a stronger, more potent drink without paying extra. Raleigh’s video humorously debunks this idea by demonstrating the reality behind this popular belief.
In her video, Raleigh plays the role of a customer requesting a vodka cranberry without ice. She explains that while she can make a drink without ice, the volume of alcohol used remains the same as it would be if ice were included. “When you ask for no ice,” she clarifies, “you actually get more mixer because ice takes up space in the drink. It’s not that we’re skimping on the alcohol; it’s just how the drink is prepared.”
How Ice Affects Your Drink
Ice plays a crucial role in the preparation of mixed drinks. It chills the beverage and dilutes the alcohol slightly, balancing the flavors and making the drink more enjoyable. Here’s what happens when you order a drink without ice:
- More Mixer, Same Alcohol: Without ice, the glass can hold more mixer, but the amount of alcohol used remains consistent. This means you’re not getting more liquor; you’re simply getting a drink with a higher ratio of mixer to alcohol.
- No Extra Booze: Raleigh emphasizes that if customers want a stronger drink, they need to pay for a double shot or an additional pour. Removing ice does not increase the alcohol content; it only changes the drink’s composition.
- Consistency in Serving: Bartenders pour a set amount of alcohol per drink to ensure consistency. The same amount of liquor goes into each mixed drink, regardless of whether ice is present or not.
Customer Reactions and Misunderstandings
Raleigh’s video resonated with many in the service industry. Other bartenders shared their own experiences with customers who mistakenly believe that “no ice” equates to more alcohol. Their comments highlight a broader issue of misunderstandings about drink preparation:
- One bartender noted: “Yes, exactly. I don’t get how people don’t understand that we pour the exact same amount for every mixed drink.”
- Another added: “Ma’am, this is not a McDonald’s; that no ice trick ain’t gonna work.”
- A third commented: “So in Germany, we actually do get more booze. When the card says 0.5 liters without mentioning ice, then we get 0.5 liters, without the ice.”
- A final user said: “People thought this at the coffeeshop I used to work at too.”
These reactions show that the confusion about ice and alcohol content is widespread. It’s important for customers to understand that bartenders follow standard procedures to ensure fairness and consistency.
Understanding Drink Preparation
To get the most out of your drink order, it’s helpful to understand how bartenders prepare beverages:
- Ice and Alcohol Balance: Ice is essential for chilling and diluting the drink to achieve the desired taste. Removing ice means the drink will have a higher concentration of mixer, which can alter the flavor profile.
- Requesting Stronger Drinks: If you prefer a stronger drink, it’s best to request a double shot or an extra pour of liquor. This will ensure you get the increased alcohol content you’re looking for.
- Fairness in Serving: Bartenders aim to provide a consistent experience for all customers. Adhering to standard measures ensures that everyone receives a fair amount of alcohol in their drinks.
In Conclusion, The next time you order a drink “no ice,” remember that it doesn’t mean more alcohol. Ice is a fundamental part of drink preparation, affecting both temperature and flavor. If you desire a stronger drink, simply ask for a double shot or additional liquor. Understanding these details will enhance your drinking experience and help avoid any confusion with your bartender.
