A bartender explains the reality behind requests for “less ice” in drinks, revealing what customers are truly getting instead at bars.
A Las Vegas bartender addressed the misconception about “less ice” drinks at bars
When you go to a bar and order a drink, you might think you are saving money or getting more alcohol by asking for “less ice.”
However, a bartender from Las Vegas, named Marti, has shared some insights that might change your mind about this common request.
Marti works in the busy Fremont Street area of Las Vegas, a place known for its lively atmosphere and many visitors.
While some patrons prefer a drink filled with ice to keep it cold, others want less ice for various reasons.
They might feel that too much ice dilutes their drink or that it turns into water too quickly.
Bartender reveals what actually happens when customers ask for “less ice” in drinks at bars
In a recent TikTok video, Marti explained what happens when you ask for less ice.
She made it clear that asking for “light ice” does not mean you get more liquor.
Instead, it usually means you get more mixer, like juice or soda, and possibly even a smaller drink overall.
This might surprise many people who think they are getting a stronger drink by reducing the ice.
She said: “You come to the bar and you order a drink with light ice.
“Light ice does not mean more liquor. It just doesn’t. It does not mean more liquor.
“It actually just means more juice. It could even just mean you don’t get a full drink.
Marti noted that this misunderstanding is common, especially among European and UK customers, where drinks are often served with less ice.
While she respects everyone’s preferences, she wants to ensure that customers know the reality behind their requests.
“And I understand people in like, Europe, UK, like specifically, they don’t like a lot of ice in their drinks.
“That’s fine. I don’t have a problem with it. You’re drinking. It’s your drink.
“I want you to enjoy it. I want to make it how you like it.
“But I just want people to know that don’t know less ice does not mean more liquor. Have a good day.”
The video has gained attention from the public.
One viewer on her TikTok asked if it was strange not to like ice at all.
Marti reassured them that it is perfectly fine to dislike ice. She suggested simply ordering the drink without ice.
Another viewer, who lives in Las Vegas, expressed frustration with drinks that taste too strong.
Marti recommended asking the bartender about the house pour, which is the standard amount of liquor they use, and requesting a larger glass to allow for more mixers.
Marti responded: “Honestly not sure, maybe ask what the house pour is and if the drink can be in a bigger glass/cup so you get more mixer to make it not taste as strong.”
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Some commenters shared their own tips.
One person said they ask for their drink in a bigger glass, which helps them enjoy the drink more slowly.
Another mentioned that they often request a “not full” drink to avoid consuming it too quickly.
I make the not full drink, but yes most people think it means more liquor people think tall has more liquor also!!
Always ask if they want a double when they ask for a tall, one user said.
I just ask for my diet and wiskey in a bigger glass… prevents me from drink it in 2.1 seconds, the second user commented.
I need all the ice, the third user said.
Tbh, I don’t think “more liquor” but u make a glass of ice & I gotta speed drink cuz it tastes like water in 30 seconds, another wrote.