I'm not sure where you work, but I know that here in Texas, the laws are clear
about "tipped" employees.
First, according to Tx law, no employee can be made to work without pay.
Ever. If you are working then you receive some kind of hourly pay.
On the hourly, hourly wage + tips must equal or pass minimum wage or the
business must compensate for the rest.
If you have questions, contact your local gov't workforce agency or just ask
another experienced bartender at another bar.
--
You only live once, and the way I live, once is enough.
Frank Sinatra