First time going to a bar - advice?

LegacyUser

Hey,

I'm a 19 year old guy and I've never been to a bar before. I'm going next week in maynooth with two female friends. I don't really know what to expect. My main concern is that I know I won't know anyone there , just the three of us. I've been to party's at bars and houses where I knew everyone so it was really easy to walk around and just talk with everyone, but that won't be so easy If I don't know anyone.

I'm not a very confident person (although most people say that I come across as confident) so I find it harder to talk to random people.

Any advice on this?

Neyite

When you go to a bar with friends, you don't tend to move around talking to people, unless you happen to spot someone that you know. You generally get a table /spot with your friends and chat among yourselves.

It will be fine. It's just like hanging out with your two friends like you always do, just in a different environment with other people hanging out with their friends.

Enjoy your night.

whiskeyman

Just relax and enjoy it!
Be friendly and polite to other people there... some people in bars may strike up a random conversation with you. Everyone there is there to have a good time, so be part of it.
Oh, and some advice I wish I had... if you order a Guinness, just be aware the barman only 3/4 fills it up and then fills it up a min or so later. This was something I didn't know at my first time in a pub and my mates erupted laughing as I brought over the pints looking like I was annoyed for not getting the full amount!!

mikemac1

ID

Bring ID!

You're only a young lad and if you get stopped at the door in front of your friends it's embarrassing

Dress well, no runners, don't give them a reason to stop you

However you entering the bar with two girls does amazing things for your chances of getting in

It's why a large group pair off into couples. Even if people are just friends, bouncers don't tend to stop couples

Stavro Mueller

whiskeyman wrote: »

Oh, and some advice I wish I had... if you order a Guinness, just be aware the barman only 3/4 fills it up and then fills it up a min or so later. This was something I didn't know at my first time in a pub and my mates erupted laughing as I brought over the pints looking like I was annoyed for not getting the full amount!!

Oh I'm glad I'm not the only person who has ended up looking like an eejit by doing that :pac:

Back on topic, just look on it in the same way as going for a cup of coffee or something to eat with your friends. Just start chatting to them like normal and if other people start talking to ye or whatever, go with the flow. The main thing is to avoid drinking too much, don't mix your drinks (e.g. a vodka one minute, a bacardi, the next, a whiskey..), avoid shots and don't wear runners. Enjoy!

What I've found helps a lot is if at least one of the others in your group is outgoing and more comfortable at striking up conversations with randomers. you wouldn't believe how much that greases the wheels.

--LOS--

You definitely wont be expected to walk around and socialise with randomers, it's just a place to meet your friends so no pressure. Maybe head out a bit earlier to make sure you get a seat/table if it's a busy night.

summerlucey

Hello,
Def bring ID! Relax. Choose one main drink and stick with it. I presume you and your friends will have turns going up to the bar to buy the drinks well when its your round just make light conversation with whoever is next to you waiting for a drink too. Dont worry once your there you'll be wondering why you even posted this thread. Smile and look friendly and who knows who may come chatting to you!