Bars run the gamut from noisy and fun to more laid-back or refined. But regardless of what kind of crowd is drawn, no one wants to wait a long time for a drink.

Restaurant Pro Express™ has a bar tab feature that helps keep the drinks flowing. A bartender or server can start a bar tab by swiping the customer’s credit card, which will pre-authorize the card before the patrons are served their drinks. Many bars will store credit cards with open tabs behind the counter, which can lead to confusion, misplaced or forgotten cards at the end of the night. Instead of holding the credit card behind the bar until the tab is closed, Restaurant Pro Express™ only requires one swipe, so the card may be given back to the patron after opening the tab.

A server or bartender can also start a tab for guests just at the bar for drinks or appetizers while they wait for their table.  Tabs are listed by name in alphabetical order and can either be closed out at the bar or transferred to a table. A bartender can also use the Quick Tab button for guests who are ordering one drink and paying for it immediately.

Customers tend to be more conscious of their purchases if they pay for a drink every time they order one, so bar tabs are good for your bottom line. It’s easier for revelers to say “this round is on me!” if they are putting it on their tab and then paying at the end of the night. It’s also more convenient for the customer because they only tip the bartender or server once, when they close their tab.

Tabs also help safeguard establishments that tend to get extremely crowded or are prone to theft. For bars that draw large sports crowds or busy college establishments, it’s common for customers to sit at a table and drink for the duration of a game or night out. Even the best servers, on busy days, may lose track of their tables. Occasionally after a long game or too many beverages, a group could “walk out” without paying their check, leaving the bar tab to absorb the loss or the unlucky server to pay the bill. Tabs ensure that the establishment is paid for the food and drinks consumed, even if the person walks out without officially paying their check.