It's an exciting endeavor to open a bar, but it takes meticulous planning and preparation. Having all the tools you need to serve customers well is one of the most important parts of setting up a bar. We'll provide you the most comprehensive bar equipment checklist in this in-depth guide to help you set up your bar for success.

Cocktail and bartending equipment

When it comes to crafting the perfect cocktail, having the right tools and equipment is essential. Whether you're a seasoned bartender or just starting, having a well-stocked bar can make all the difference. Here's a list of essential cocktail and bartending equipment you'll need:

Glasses

• Rocks Glasses: Used for serving drinks like whiskey on the rocks or cocktails that are served over ice.
• Pint Glasses: Typically used for serving beer, but can also be used for certain cocktails like beer cocktails or shandies.
• Shot Glasses: Used for measuring and serving shots of liquor.
• Collins (and other Specialty) Glasses: Tall, narrow glasses used for drinks like Tom Collins or Mojitos.
• Wine Glasses: Used for serving wine-based cocktails or wine.
• Champagne Glasses: Flute-shaped glasses used for serving champagne or sparkling wine.
• Martini Glasses: Iconic glasses used for serving martinis and other cocktails.
• Brandy Snifters: Wide-bottomed glasses used for serving brandy or cognac.
• Highball Glasses: Tall glasses used for drinks like gin and tonic or highball cocktails.
• Mixing Glasses: Large glasses used for stirring cocktails with ice.

Bartending Tools and Accessories

• Jiggers: Used for measuring precise amounts of liquor.
• Muddlers: Used for muddling ingredients like herbs, fruits, or sugar cubes.
• Cocktail Shakers: Used for shaking cocktails with ice to mix and chill them.
• Cocktail Spoon: Long-handled spoon used for stirring cocktails.
• Citrus Juicers: Used for juicing citrus fruits like lemons and limes.
• Cap Catchers: Attached to bottle openers to catch bottle caps.
• Bottle and Can Openers: Used for opening bottles and cans.
• Cocktail Strainers: Used for straining cocktails to remove ice or other solids.
• Garnishing Tools: Used for creating garnishes like twists or peels.
• Muddling Supplies: Includes ingredients like sugar cubes or mint leaves for muddling.
• Straws and Stirrers: Used for stirring cocktails and for serving.
• Cutting Boards: Used for cutting fruit garnishes.
• Napkins and Coasters: Used for wiping up spills and protecting surfaces.
• Bar Mats: Rubber mats placed on the bar to catch spills and prevent glasses from slipping.
• Bar Towels: Used for cleaning up spills and wiping down surfaces.
• Liquor Bottle Pourers: Used for pouring liquor into drinks quickly and accurately.
• Containers for Garnishes and Bitters: Used for storing garnishes and bitters.
• Ice Cube Trays and Ice Buckets: Used for making and storing ice.
• Wine Openers: Used for opening wine bottles.

Beverages and beverage dispensing bar equipment

A well-stocked bar is not complete without a wide selection of beverages and the equipment needed to dispense them. From spirits to mixers and garnishes, here's a comprehensive list to ensure your bar is ready to serve a variety of drinks:

Spirits

• Vodka: A versatile spirit used in many cocktails.
• Gin: A key ingredient in classic cocktails like the Martini and Gin and Tonic.
• Tequila: Essential for Margaritas and other tequila-based cocktails.
• Whiskey: Includes varieties like bourbon, Scotch, and rye, used in cocktails like the Old Fashioned and Whiskey Sour.
• Rum: Used in cocktails like the Mojito, Daiquiri, and Piña Colada.

Basic Liqueurs

• Amaretto: A sweet almond-flavored liqueur used in drinks like the Amaretto Sour.
• Coffee Liqueur: Used in cocktails like the White Russian and Espresso Martini.
• Dry and Sweet Vermouth: Essential for classic cocktails like the Martini and Manhattan.
• Irish Cream Liqueur: Used in drinks like the Irish Coffee.
• Orange Liqueur: Includes varieties like Triple Sec and Cointreau, used in cocktails like the Margarita and Cosmopolitan.

Non-Alcoholic Mixers for Mixed Drinks

• Lemon and Lime Juice: Used as a base for many cocktails.
• Orange Juice: Used in drinks like the Screwdriver and Mimosa.
• Cranberry Juice: Used in cocktails like the Cosmopolitan.
• Grapefruit Juice: Used in drinks like the Greyhound and Paloma.
• Pineapple Juice: Used in cocktails like the Piña Colada.
• Tomato Juice: Used in the Bloody Mary.
• Bitters: Used to add flavor and depth to cocktails.

Essential Sodas

• Club Soda: Used as a mixer in drinks like the Mojito and Tom Collins.
• Tonic Water: Used in drinks like the Gin and Tonic.
• Ginger Ale: Used in cocktails like the Moscow Mule.
• Cola and Diet Cola: Used in drinks like the Cuba Libre and Rum and Coke.
• Lemon-Lime Soda: Used in drinks like the Vodka Collins.

Fruit Garnishes

• Lemons, Limes, Oranges: Used as garnishes and for adding flavor to cocktails.
• Maraschino Cherries: Used as a garnish for cocktails like the Manhattan and Shirley Temple.

Beverage Nice-to-Haves

• Olives: Used as a garnish for cocktails like the Martini and Bloody Mary.
• Cocktail Onions: Used as a garnish for cocktails like the Gibson.
• Mint: Used as a garnish and for flavoring cocktails like the Mojito.
• Salt and Sugar: Used for rimming cocktail glasses.
• Cinnamon: Used as a garnish and for adding flavor to cocktails.
• Grated Nutmeg: Used as a garnish and for adding flavor to cocktails.
• Celery or Pickles: Used as a garnish for cocktails like the Bloody Mary.
• Whipped Cream: Used as a garnish for cocktails like the Irish Coffee.

Essential features for a bar POS system

• Easy-to-Use Interface: Ensure the system is intuitive for quick order processing.
• Inventory Management: Track stock levels, automate reordering, and reduce waste.
• Remote Access: Manage your bar from anywhere with an internet connection.
• Actionable Data and Insights: Gain insights into sales trends, customer preferences, and employee performance.
• Integration with Other Systems: Streamline operations by integrating with accounting or inventory management software.
• Customization Options: Customize menus, pricing, and settings to suit your bar's needs.
• Security Features: Protect customer data with encryption and secure payment processing.
• Scalability: Expand the system as your bar grows, adding more terminals or features as needed.

Bar furniture and other equipment

Bar furniture and other equipment play a crucial role in creating the right ambiance and functionality for your bar. The choice of furniture should align with your bar's theme and customer expectations. For instance, a high-end cocktail bar may opt for elegant, modern furniture, while a sports bar might choose more casual, comfortable seating. The bar counter is often the focal point, so it should be well-designed and functional, with ample space for bartenders to work efficiently.

In addition to furniture, you'll need other equipment to ensure smooth bar operations. Refrigeration and cold storage are essential for storing beverages at the right temperature. Kegerators and beer coolers are necessary for serving draft beer, while wine coolers are needed for storing and serving wine. Other equipment includes horizontal bottle coolers, swing door back bar coolers, and swing door merchandisers for storing bottled beverages. A storage cooler is also essential for storing additional inventory.

Cleanliness is paramount in a bar, so you'll need strong cleaning tools and a streamlined process for disinfecting glassware and barware. A two or three sink setup is necessary for washing dishes with specialized cleaning agents. Additionally, having bathroom equipment, hand sanitizer, and cleaning supplies readily available is crucial for maintaining a clean and hygienic environment for both employees and customers.

When it comes to decor, consider elements that reflect your brand story and create a welcoming atmosphere. From color schemes and textiles to artwork on the walls, every detail should contribute to the overall ambiance. TV monitors, cable, and sound equipment are also essential, especially if you plan to show sports or entertainment events. Overall, investing in quality furniture and equipment will not only enhance the customer experience but also contribute to the efficient operation of your bar.

How and where can I get this equipment?

You can obtain bar equipment from a variety of sources, including restaurant supply stores, online retailers, and specialized bar equipment suppliers. Here are some options for acquiring the equipment you need for your bar:

Restaurant Supply Stores: Local restaurant supply stores often carry a wide range of bar equipment, including glassware, bar tools, refrigeration units, and furniture. Visit stores in your area to see their selection and compare prices.

Online Retailers: Many online retailers specialize in bar equipment and supplies. Websites like Amazon, WebstaurantStore, and BarProducts.com offer a wide selection of products at competitive prices. Online shopping allows you to compare products and read reviews from other customers before making a purchase.

Specialized Bar Equipment Suppliers: Some suppliers specialize in bar equipment and can provide personalized service and guidance. These suppliers often carry high-quality products and may offer bulk discounts for larger orders.

Used Equipment Suppliers: If you're on a budget, consider purchasing used equipment from suppliers that specialize in refurbished or second-hand items. Make sure to inspect the equipment thoroughly before buying to ensure it's in good condition.

Renting or Leasing: For equipment that you only need temporarily or for special events, renting or leasing may be a cost-effective option. Look for rental companies that specialize in restaurant and bar equipment.

Local Auctions or Liquidation Sales: Keep an eye out for local auctions or liquidation sales where you may be able to find discounted bar equipment. These events can be a great way to save money on high-quality equipment.

Stocking up your new bar with the right equipment

Stocking up your new bar with the right equipment is essential for ensuring smooth operations and delivering a great customer experience. Here's a guide to help you get started:

Essential Bar Tools: Invest in high-quality bar tools, including shakers, strainers, jiggers, muddlers, and bar spoons. These tools are essential for preparing and serving drinks efficiently.

Glassware: Stock up on a variety of glassware to serve different types of drinks, including rocks glasses, highball glasses, martini glasses, wine glasses, and shot glasses. Having the right glassware enhances the presentation of your drinks and adds to the overall experience.

Refrigeration Equipment: Ensure you have adequate refrigeration equipment to store beverages and ingredients at the right temperature. This includes kegerators for draft beer, wine coolers, and refrigerators for storing garnishes and other perishable items.

Dispensing Equipment: Consider investing in dispensing equipment such as liquor dispensers, speed rails, and pourers. These tools help bartenders accurately measure and pour drinks, reducing waste and improving efficiency.

Bar Furniture: Choose bar furniture that is comfortable, durable, and aesthetically pleasing. This includes bar stools, tables, and chairs. The layout of your bar furniture should be designed to maximize space and create a welcoming atmosphere for customers.

POS System: A Point of Sale (POS) system is essential for managing customer orders, processing payments, and tracking sales. Look for a POS system that is user-friendly and offers features like inventory management and reporting.

Cleaning Supplies: Stock up on cleaning supplies to maintain a clean and sanitary bar environment. This includes dish soap, sanitizer, cleaning cloths, and brushes. Regular cleaning is essential for preventing contamination and ensuring food safety.

Safety Equipment: Ensure you have safety equipment such as fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and emergency exits in place. Safety should be a top priority in your bar to protect both customers and staff.

Conclusion

To sum up, getting the correct supplies for your new bar is essential to making sure everything runs smoothly and giving your patrons a wonderful time. Every piece of equipment, from POS systems and refrigeration units to basic bar tools and glassware, is crucial to the success of your bar.

Purchasing high-quality equipment up front can save you money over time by lowering maintenance expenses and increasing productivity. Furthermore, keeping the bar clean and hygienic is crucial to avoiding contamination and guaranteeing food safety.

You can create a welcome environment that entices clients to return by carefully choosing the appropriate equipment and setting up your bar for success. To your new bar endeavor, cheers!