The cliché says that our beverage choice at a restaurant might be more telling than we think, with an insightful server able to make educated assumptions about us based on that order. From the humble water order to a more extravagant beverage, servers that have been working in the industry for years can deduce a fair amount about their customers.

Ever noticed how some servers seem to have a certain knack for understanding their customers? Well, they might not be psychic, but they have been working around people long enough to pick up on some subtle cues. And interestingly, your beverage choice is one of those cues they often rely on.

When you order tap water, servers often interpret this as a sign of either a budget-conscious customer or someone who values hydration. While ordering sparkling water might indicate an adventurous spirit and a fascination with European culture. Similarly, if you prefer your water room temperature, they might assume you have sensitive teeth. If, however, you ask for extra ice and lemons, servers often anticipate you as someone who keeps an eye on their expenses and appreciates a free drink.

The famous Cosmopolitan, popularized by HBO's Sex and The City, still has its faithful devotees in 2025. Despite it being in the public consciousness for more than a decade prior to the characters of Sex and The City sipping it on screen, they certainly helped bring the drink into vogue. Whether it's relishing nostalgic moments or simply because you love the taste, ordering a Cosmo can indicate that you're a fan of tailored experiences instead of settling for well drinks.

Then there's the black coffee crowd – straightforward, decisive folks who prefer to skip the frills. They typically appear ready to tackle the day without the fuss of sugar or cream. A black coffee customer is often seen to approach meal pairings in a very eclectic way, ranging from an omelet to a cheeseburger. That first cup is never going to be enough for them.

On the other hand, those who go for complex coffee orders with an assortment of ingredients, from oat milk to nutmeg, can come off as frequent Starbucks visitors.

Ordering a hot tea may paint you as someone thoughtful, introspective, and honest– someone who understands the importance of self-care, even when dining out.

A particularly bewildering order that some servers come across is a double vodka on the rocks, featuring both top shelf and bottom shelf vodkas. An order like this suggests a customer who doesn't often pay close attention to the specifics. Ordering such a concoction often elicits a few laughs from servers and sometimes, a temporary simplification of their interaction with the customer.

Although these are hasty generalizations, they're often considered useful insights for many servers in navigating their world of hustle and bustle. However, not all servers rely on these broad-stroke assessments. But for those who do, it's a fascinating game of matching beverage choices to customer personalities.

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