If you are a movie buff, you might have seen how customers end up pouring their hearts out to bartenders over a drink. From breakup stories to work stress, the person preparing your drink often plays the role of a silent listener. But does this really happen in real life, or is it something that only exists in movies? On World Bartender Day, we at Curly Tales spoke to several well-known Indian bartenders to understand what actually happens behind the bar.
World Bartender Day Special: Do People Really Open Up To Bartenders?
When we step into a bar, under the influence of alcohol, does it get easier to talk to the ones making our drinks? We reached out to many bartenders across India, and they definitely had something to say. You might be surprised to know that this does happen in real life, though it may not be as dramatic as shown in movies.
According to Karthik Kumar from Naked & Famous, Bengaluru, customers often start conversations at the bar. It takes just soft eye contact and a genuine smile for many guests to feel seen and welcomed. After all, a guest in search of a drink might also be looking for someone to talk to, and sometimes, they find a friend in the bartender.
Saying hello and asking ‘how are you’ may seem simple. But beyond that, many guests do open up about their personal and professional lives.
Aneesh Jog, a bartender from Woodside Inn, Bengaluru, says, “We’ve heard breakup stories, promotion wins, startup failures, wedding plans, sometimes all from the same person over the years.” According to him, the bar stool has seen it all. Honestly, there is something about a drink and the vibe of a bar that can make anyone loosen up a little, right?
Datta Alvar, Head Bartender at Bar Sama, Bengaluru, shared that once customers get familiar, they open up about work, relationships, family, and more. However, he adds that most conversations still revolve around food and drinks. Sometimes, bartenders also strike up conversations to understand guests’ preferences and any customisations they may want in their drink.
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Are Bartenders Silent Listeners Or Therapists?
In our opinion, the atmosphere in a bar can naturally make people feel more at ease. Guests not only engage with bartenders behind the counter but also with strangers sitting nearby. We often thought this was a fictional imagination, but judging by these answers, it seems very real. But are bartenders trained to handle emotional guests? Do they act as therapists or just listeners?
Akash Singh, Corporate Mixologist at KOKO & Foo, says, “Listening is key. As hospitality professionals, our role is to create a warm and respectful environment.” He mentions they don’t offer advice unless customers ask for it. Instead, they provide empathy and comfort.
Kaustubh Sawardekar, Head Mixologist at Yazu, Goa, agrees that bartenders are not therapists. But they can listen without judgment. According to him, guests don’t visit bars seeking advice; they come to enjoy a drink and have someone hear them out. At Raasta, the team of bartenders is trained to be attentive, intuitive, and discreet. They believe that sometimes the right response is simply listening.
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Bar Conversations Are Not Always Filmy!
Bar conversations are not always as dramatic as movies make them seem. In films, we often see a character crying over a breakup or job loss and making life-changing decisions over a drink. Yes, conversations do happen, but they may not be too filmy.
Rahul Kamath, Bar Operations Head at Idoru, Mumbai, says, “Real-life bar conversations tend to be more understated than what we see in films. They are less dramatic and more about small, genuine moments of connection that unfold naturally.”
The team of bartenders at Yeti also shared that conversations at the bar are rarely as dramatic as movies portray. According to them, “Bartenders aren’t philosophers delivering life lessons, they’re listeners. And sometimes, that’s enough.”
It is clear that while conversations with bartenders can be genuine, they are not always dramatic. Have you ever tried striking up a conversation with the bartender preparing your drink?
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ andresr (Representative Image)
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE. First Published: February 24, 2026 3:37 PM