Bartenders Can Smell a Recession: Here’s Why We’re In One

Bartenders Can Smell a Recession: Here’s Why We’re In One

Bartenders have a unique ability to predict a recession—and right now, they're saying it loud and clear: We're already in one.

In Scottsdale, March and April are usually the peak of the season—big crowds, big tips. But this year? It's a different story. On a recent shift, one bartender was cut entirely from the schedule, leaving the rest of the team standing around, waiting for customers who never showed up.

It’s not just the lack of customers, though—it’s the tips. A bartender who's usually pulling in over 20% on tips is now struggling to even get close to that. If that doesn’t scream trouble, what does?

And it’s not just a few quiet shifts. 45 new restaurants have opened in the Phoenix Valley alone in the last couple weeks, adding more competition into an already tight market.

The writing's on the wall—bartenders, what are you seeing? Let’s talk in the comments, because it looks like the roller coaster ride is just getting started.