It’s that time of week when we answer the questions you’re to drunk or shy to ask…This question comes from Lisa: We had a drink at the bar before going to our table and wanted to settle our tab before moving. The hostess told us it wasn’t necessary and that we could transfer our check. Does the bartender get tipped for the drinks we had at the bar? What’s the best way to handle this? I’ve always wanted to know because I always feel bad about it.Servers must tip the bartender on any amount transferred to them from the bar, but this rule, and the amount tipped, changes from establishment to establishment. The average tipout to the bartender is 10%. So, it’s up to you, your assessment of the service you received and your conscience whether you want to settle up before moving to a table. Did the bartender help you choose between the wines by the glass, helping you with the choices and pouring samples? Did they just pour you a couple of beers? How long were you at the bar?If you’d rather have the convenience of one tab but want to make sure the bartender gets his due, just leave a few bucks at the bar. This is a very nice gesture and shows you appreciated the service. From the bartending end of things, we understand the situation. Although, it did bum me out to know that sometimes when I really styled a customer and talked up the menu, I had to watch them switch to a server who would reap the lion’s share of the tips. That’s kinda one of the crappy side affects you accept as a bartender, like Cyrano de Bergerac we are sometimes, but the odds (and tips) usually end up in our favor.Got a question for the bartender? Email me at mdutton@seattleweekly.com.