15 Weird Ways To Order Beer In Different Countries

I’ve always loved how something as simple as ordering a beer can tell you so much about a culture.

Early in my travels, I found myself confused in a bar in Spain. I thought ordering beer was universal, but suddenly, slapping the table or nodding meant the difference between getting a beer or nothing at all.

That experience stuck with me because it showed how something small, a gesture or phrase, can unlock a whole new level of connection.

So I wrote this article to share the weird, surprising ways people order beer around the world.

This isn’t just about words you say — it’s about secret signals, local customs, and cultural quirks that you won’t find in a dictionary.

If you want to avoid awkward moments or truly blend in on your next trip, knowing these strange customs will help you get your beer fast and make a great impression.

Let’s dive into 15 countries where ordering beer is a little more than just saying “beer, please.”

1. Germany — Slap the Table, But Not Too Hard

In Germany, especially in traditional beer halls, ordering a beer sometimes involves a quick slap on the wooden table.

But be careful — it’s a gentle tap, not a pound. It’s a way to catch the bartender’s attention when they’re busy.

I once tried it in Munich and accidentally knocked over a glass. The locals laughed, but it was a clear lesson: this gesture is about respect, not force.

This subtle table tap says “I’m ready for another beer” and keeps the flow going without shouting or waving your arms.

2. Mexico — Nod or Raise Your Hand

In Mexican cantinas, the bartenders often serve regulars without a word.

If you want a beer, just a quick nod or raising your hand is enough.

No need to shout “una chela” all the time.

I found this out while chilling in Playa del Carmen — simply catching the bartender’s eye and nodding got my cerveza delivered fast.

It’s a quiet, almost secret code that shows you belong to the place.

3. Japan — The Polite Bow and “Nama Beer”

In Japan, manners are everything.

When ordering beer, you say “nama beeru kudasai,” which means draft beer, but it’s the bow that seals the deal.

A small bow when you order shows respect, and in return, you get swift, polite service.

I remember feeling shy about bowing in a Tokyo bar, but it made the interaction smooth and even enjoyable.

4. Belgium — Ask for a “Pintje” and Wait Patiently

Belgians take beer seriously — so much so that you’ll often hear locals ask for a “pintje,” a small pint.

But here’s the catch: you don’t wave or shout. Instead, you make eye contact, smile, and wait for your turn.

In Brussels, I learned that patience is part of the beer ritual. If you’re too eager, you might get ignored.

The unspoken rule is to respect the flow, and soon enough, your pintje arrives.

5. England — Order “Bitter” Like a Local

In English pubs, ordering a “bitter” is not just about taste; it’s a cultural cue.

Say “bitter” with confidence, and you’ll get a classic ale poured with pride.

No need to say “beer” — that sounds foreign here.

Once in London, I tried ordering a generic “beer” and got puzzled looks. Switching to “bitter” made all the difference.

6. Czech Republic — Say “Pivo” Loud and Clear, Then Wait

In the Czech Republic, the secret is to say “pivo” loudly and clearly, but don’t wave your arms.

The bartenders are quick, but they expect a direct call without fuss.

I noticed in Prague that locals often just say “pivo” once and wait calmly, unlike the impatient tourists who shout for service.

This respect gets you served faster and with a smile.

7. Russia — The Firm “Pivo” and Toasting First

In Russia, it’s not just what you say but what you do next.

After ordering your “pivo,” it’s polite to toast with your friends before drinking.

Slamming your glass down is a no-no, but clinking glasses loudly is part of the ritual.

I enjoyed this once in Moscow — it felt like a secret handshake that turned strangers into friends.

8. Brazil — Whisper “Breja” and Expect Friendly Banter

In Brazil, “breja” is slang for beer, but the real secret is in the vibe.

Say it quietly to your bartender and expect a friendly smile or a joke back.

I found that in Rio, using “breja” makes bartenders more chatty, turning a quick drink into a conversation.

It’s less about the order and more about the connection.

9. Ireland — Call It “The Black Stuff” and Order With a Nod

Ordering Guinness in Ireland means calling it “the black stuff.”

But the real trick? A subtle nod to the bartender.

At a Dublin pub, I learned nodding signals you’re ready for a refill without interrupting anyone’s conversation.

It’s a respectful gesture that gets you poured without fuss.

10. South Korea — Raise Your Glass First, Then Order

In South Korea, the act of ordering beer is wrapped up in social rituals.

Before you say “maekju juseyo,” it’s polite to raise your glass in a toast, even if it’s empty.

Skipping this step can feel rude.

During my visit to Seoul, joining this toast made me feel part of the group instantly.

11. Australia — Say “Schooner” and Don’t Flinch

Australians love their beer sizes, and “schooner” means 425 ml.

The secret? Don’t flinch if the bartender asks if you want a schooner or a pint.

Once, I hesitated and got some teasing — Aussies take their beer sizes seriously!

Ordering the right size with confidence is key.

12. France — Say “Pression” and Look Casual

In France, ordering draft beer is “une pression.”

But the real code is to say it while looking casual and relaxed.

French bartenders appreciate subtlety and style — order loudly or urgently, and you might get a raised eyebrow.

I learned to soften my voice in a Paris café and was rewarded with the perfect cold beer.

13. Italy — Point and Say “Birra alla Spina” With a Smile

In Italy, many times you’ll often be in noisy piazzas or crowded bars.

Pointing at the tap and saying “birra alla spina” with a smile is your best bet.

It’s less about the words and more about your friendly attitude.

During a trip to Rome, this simple combo got me served faster than trying to explain in broken Italian.

14. India — Use Direct Language and Keep It Simple

In India, ordering beer is straightforward: “ek beer dena” means “give me one beer.”

But the key is to say it clearly and without hesitation.

In Mumbai, I noticed bartenders appreciate directness — no need for flowery language.

It speeds up the service and shows you’re confident.

15. Thailand — Hand Signals and Polite Words Go a Long Way

In Thailand, you can say “bia neung kaew” for one glass of beer.

But the real secret is the polite hand gesture called the “wai” — pressing your palms together lightly as you order.

It shows respect and often earns you faster service.

In Bangkok, I tried this and the bartender smiled warmly — it’s a small gesture with a big impact.

Final Thoughts

Ordering a beer might seem simple, but these customs prove it’s a cultural language of its own.

Small gestures, secret words, or just the right tone can turn an awkward moment into a smooth connection.

Next time you travel, try one of these weird ways to order beer — it might just be the key to your new favorite bar.

After all, it’s not just about the drink, but how you ask for it that counts.