Bartender shares secret code women use when they're feeling unsafe: '[This] actually did save my life'
It’s no secret that nights out rarely go as expected, which can sometimes lead to serious danger.
If you’re ever out on the town and find yourself in an uncomfortable situation with a fellow bar patron, there’s a subtle yet effective way to ask an employee for help.
TikTok user @BenjiSpears explained that ordering a nonexistent “angel shot” is a secret code to alert staff that you feel unsafe.
In a viral post, the Los Angeles-based bartender reenacted a situation where he spotted a woman who looked uncomfortable.
As he checked on the pair, the woman requested an angel shot, which @BenjiSpears explained has become more common among bartenders lately. He then stayed by her side until the “shot” arrived.
“It can save you or your best friend’s life, and it’s something we should all know about,” he said.
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The concept of the angel shot first went viral back in 2017 as an open secret among women and bar employees. The exact name of the drink may vary, but bars sometimes post the code words in the women’s bathroom.
The angel shot has three different versions now, @BenjiSpears explained. The angel shot with lime suggests that bartenders need to get the police involved; ordering one “neat” is a request for an escort to your car and “on the rocks” means you need someone to call a car to get you home safe.
“I think this is a great learning lesson. Everyone should know about the angel shot,” he said. “It’s just a great way to make sure that we all feel safe.”
The video has racked up more than 10 million views, so the concept is certainly spreading. It might reach folks with unsavory intentions, but no matter what, it’ll get your bartender’s attention — even if they have to pull you aside to ask what it means.
Commenters thanked @BenjiSpears for his thoughtful advice.
“An angel shot with lime actually did save my life. Thank you for this,” one user wrote.
“It’s a literal lifesaver,” another said.
“You are an angel for sharing this,” a third remarked.
Others shared tips just in case your bartender doesn’t know what you’re talking about, like saying, “let me show you on my phone,” and then writing a request for help in your Notes app.
Another said that if you ask a bartender if someone named “Angela” is working, they’ll know that it means you need help.
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