Bartender Sets the Record Straight: “No Ice” Doesn’t Mean More Alcohol

Jemima June, a seasoned bartender from Nashville, Tennessee, recently found herself at the center of an engaging debate on TikTok. In a viral video that has amassed over 7.3 million views, Jemima recounts an interesting interaction with a customer who ordered a tequila cranberry without ice. What happened next left viewers divided and sparked a lively discussion.

As the customer adamantly requested no ice in his drink, Jemima, being the attentive bartender that she is, calmly clarified the situation. She asked the customer if he wanted a double tequila cranberry instead, highlighting that simply removing ice from the equation wouldn’t result in more alcohol. This seemingly simple question ignited a social media frenzy.

The comment section of the TikTok video became a battleground as viewers took sides. Many supported Jemima’s stance, agreeing that the customer was trying to “pull a fast one.” On the other hand, some individuals preferred drinks with less ice to prevent quick dilution. One comment humorously expressed, “Sometimes we just want more drink, not more alcohol, so we don’t finish our mainly cup of ice in 5 seconds.”

Jemima’s professionalism shone through as she remained courteous despite the customer’s insistence. Supporters applauded her ability to handle such situations gracefully, as they noted the challenges of working in a high-volume setting. One TikToker empathetically shared, “It gets frustrating being yelled at when you are doing what they ask.” It’s clear that those who have never worked in the industry may not fully understand the pressures bartenders face.

Viewers expressed astonishment that the distinction between “no ice” and “double” even had to be clarified. One person bluntly stated, “Blows my mind that we still have to say this.” This video underscored the complexities bartenders encounter when striving to meet customer expectations while providing responsible and professional service.

Jemima June, with her impressive bartending skills and captivating content on TikTok, has gained immense popularity and almost one million followers. Her engaging videos resonate with audiences, amassing millions of likes. Through this spirited debate on TikTok, it’s evident that clear communication between customers and service providers is vital, along with respect and understanding from both sides of the bar.