10 Tips for Bottomless Brunching Like a Pro This Weekend!

Are You Wasting Your Bottomless Brunch? Here’s How to Fix That!

Bottomless brunch sounds like the perfect way to start your weekend—unlimited drinks, delicious food, and great company with your favourite people. But let’s be real: not all bottomless brunches are created equal. Some restaurants slow down refills, water down bottomless cocktails, or leave you waiting forever while your glass stays empty. If you’re in Melbourne or any major city, you want to make sure you’re getting the best experience possible.

Sound familiar?

If you’ve ever felt like you didn’t get your money’s worth or found yourself leaving your meal too full, too tipsy, or just disappointed, you’re not alone. But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.

With these 10 expert-backed, unheard-of tips, you’ll master bottomless brunching like a pro. Get more drinks, faster service, and a truly unlimited experience this weekend! 🍾✨

1. Order the “Bartender’s Favorite” First

🍹 Why it works: Most restaurants use cheap sparkling wine for mimosas and bottomless cocktails. But bartenders often have a better-tasting option that still fits their budget. Asking, “What’s your go-to pour?” can get you a smoother, more flavorful drink alcohol right from the start.

🔸 Pro Tip: If the bartender seems hesitant, try something like, “What’s the best sparkling wine you’d recommend for a mimosa?” This can signal to them that you care about quality, and they might pour you something slightly better without breaking their budget.

2. The Ice Cube Stacking Trick

🧊 Why it works: Ever noticed how your bottomless drinks get weaker with each round? That’s because they use the same glass, filled with melting ice. Ask for extra ice cubes in your first drink. As you sip, remove and stack them on a napkin. This keeps later refills from getting too diluted.

🔸 Pro Tip: This trick works best for cocktails served over ice, like Bloody Marys or spritzers. If you’re drinking mimosas, consider requesting them without ice to avoid unnecessary dilution.

3. The “Half-Full” Mimosa Hack

🍊 Why it works: Many venues pre-mix juice and sparkling wine—which means flat, sugar-heavy drinks. To fix this, ask for your mimosas to be “half-full with juice” instead of the standard pour. It’s a subtle way to get more wine and less juice.

🔸 Pro Tip: If you want even more control over your drink, ask for the juice and sparkling wine to be served separately. That way, you can mix the perfect ratio yourself and avoid over-sweetened cocktails.

4. Time Your Orders with the Server’s Flow

 

 

⏳ Why it works: Servers mentally track who drinks the fastest. If you empty your glass too soon, they might slow down your refills. Instead, observe when your server is making rounds and time your sips so your glass is empty when they arrive.

🔸 Pro Tip: Try slowing down and keeping pace with your tablemates. Servers are more likely to refill drinks when multiple people at a table need refills at the same time.

5. Always Order a “Distraction Drink”

 

🫖 Why it works: Want to make sure your server isn’t watching how much you’re drinking? Order a non-alcoholic option like tea, coffee, or iced water. It makes you seem less like a heavy drinker and keeps your refills coming without suspicion.

🔸 Pro Tip: A stylish iced tea or mocktail can blend seamlessly with your alcoholic drinks, keeping you refreshed and keeping your table in the good graces of your server.

6. The “Sudden Bathroom Break” Move

🚻 Why it works: Some places intentionally skip tables if they think guests are drinking too fast. If you notice this happening, time a quick bathroom break right before a refill round. When you return, say, “Oh, I think I missed my top-up!”—they’ll likely pour you an extra.

🔸 Pro Tip: If you’re in a group, stagger bathroom breaks so at least one person is always at the table when refills come around.

7. Use “The Spill Excuse” to Get a Bonus Round

💦 Why it works: If your bottomless brunch session is almost up and you want one last drink, try this trick. Casually mention, “Oops, I spilled a bit of my last one,” while showing a napkin with some liquid. Most servers will top you off out of courtesy.

🔸 Pro Tip: This works best when the staff is busy and not keeping a strict count of each refill.

Note: Please don’t take this one very seriously. It’s never nice to waste food or drinks. 😅😅

8. Look for the “Forgotten Table” for Faster Service

🍽️ Why it works: Some tables get ignored by accident, which means when the server finally checks in, they compensate with extra drinks. If you notice a slower section, sit there for a better refill rate.

🔸 Pro Tip: If you’re flexible with seating, opt for a table near the service station—staff will pass by more frequently.

9. Pre-Game With Sparkling Water & Salt

💧 Why it works: Want to stay hydrated and last longer without getting too full or drunk? Drink sparkling water with a pinch of salt 30 minutes before brunch. This boosts hydration and prevents early alcohol burnout, a trick used by bartenders who need to stay alert.

🔸 Pro Tip: Adding lemon to your water can also help balance pH levels and keep you feeling refreshed throughout your meal.

10. The “Fake Cheers” Strategy

🥂 Why it works: If your large group drinks at the same pace, your server is more likely to keep refilling everyone. Casually raise your glass and say “cheers” every 20 minutes. This makes people sip together, keeping everyone’s drinks at the same level, which signals the server to keep the refills coming.

🔸 Pro Tip: This is an especially useful tactic for birthday parties or celebrations where servers expect frequent toasts.

Bonus Tip: Tip Early for VIP Treatment

💵 Why it works: Most people wait until the end of brunch to tip, but tipping early can make all the difference. A generous tip at the beginning of your meal signals to the staff that you appreciate great service, and they’ll be more inclined to keep your drinks flowing.

🔸 Pro Tip: Handing over a cash tip with a friendly comment like, “Looking forward to a great brunch with your help!” can set the tone for exceptional service.

 

Looking for a Unique Bottomless Brunch Experience?

If you’re ready to take your bottomless brunch game to the next level, why not enjoy it with stunning views on a river cruise? Instead of a standard brunch setting, imagine sipping unlimited cocktails aboard a scenic boat cruise while taking in the sights. A bottomless cocktail cruise offers a refreshing and unforgettable way to dine, drink, and celebrate in style. Check out this two-hour bottomless cocktail cruise for an elevated experience.

Final Thoughts

Bottomless brunching isn’t just about drinking—it’s about getting the most out of your experience. These expert-approved strategies will help you avoid slow service, weak bottomless cocktails, and wasted time.

So, next time you’re brunching this weekend, try these pro tips and make every sip count! 🍾🥂✨