What Does Angel Shot Mean?

An angel shot is a code phrase a guest can use at a bar to quietly ask for help when they feel unsafe, uncomfortable, or threatened.

The idea is that the guest asks the barback or server for an “angel shot,” and the staff knows to step in. Many places use a simple system for how the guest orders it:

How they order it	What it means
Straight up	Escort me to my car or the door
Neat	Call me a ride or taxi
With ice	Call the police

The codes can differ from bar to bar, and not every bartender knows them, so don’t assume guests or staff will understand them.

Train all members of your staff, not just the bartenders, if you want to implement this at your restaurant. Determine in advance who will step in and how.

Ensure that employees can immediately contact management or call for assistance, and that they never leave a guest alone with the person they are concerned about.