Up to 40% off
Glassware
Shop
Bar Accessories
Get 30% off
Tableware
Shop
Refrigeration
Save Up To 30%
Front of House
Shop
Kitchen Accessories
Shop
Catering Equipment
Shop
Cleaning
Get 30% off
Disposables
Read the ultimate bar equipment guide for restaurants to help understand the essential bar tools and equipment you will require. Start with top-quality cocktail shakers, jiggers for accuracy, muddlers for fresh flavour and various strainers for clarity.
Don’t forget durable glassware—rocks glasses for spirits, highball glasses for mixed drinks and speciality glasses for cocktails make the drinking experience better.
Beverage dispensing systems—kegerators for beer and shot dispensers for liquors will keep things consistent and reduce waste.
Make sure your refrigeration is on point with coolers and ice machines.
For ongoing success, keep these tools in top condition, and you’ll see an improvement in service speed and customer satisfaction.
Now, let’s talk about the bar tools and accessories you’ll need.
You’ll need mixing equipment—shakers, stirrers, strainers to make a classic martini to a mojito.
And don’t forget other accessories—jiggers, muddlers, bottle openers to make your bar more functional and serviceable.
To set up your bar you’ll need a range of essential mixing tools that are crucial for making great cocktails.
Start by adding top quality cocktail shakers to your bar equipment list. They’re a must have for mixing and chilling drinks to perfection. A good shaker will impress your bar staff and the cocktail making process.
Next invest in jiggers. Accurate measurements are key to consistency in drink quality which brings customers back.
Add muddlers to the list, they’re essential for crushing ingredients like herbs and fruits into your drinks.
Don’t forget the bar spoon. This tool isn’t just for stirring it’s also for layering drinks so you can make drinks look good and complex.
Finally make sure you have a range of strainers. These will help your bar staff separate ice and other solids from the liquid so every drink is smooth and drinkable.
Beyond the essentials you’ll also need a range of extras to run your bar smoothly.
To improve functionality and service at your bar consider:
1. Glass Mats: Protect your bar surfaces and reduce glass breakage. These mats provide a safe place to dry and store glasses so they’re always clean and ready to go.
2. Cutting Boards and Paring Knives for garnishes like lemons, limes and oranges. Choose durable easy to clean materials for hygiene and efficiency during peak hours.
3. Garnish Bins: Keep your fruit slices, herbs and other garnishes tidy and at hand. Having these bins within reach speeds up drink making and allows for quick garnishing.
4. Napkin Holders: An often overlooked bar accessory, sturdy napkin holders keep your bar tidy and your customers happy. Place them strategically around the bar for easy access during service.
A range of glassware is a must have for any bar to be able to serve everything from classic cocktails to fine wines and craft beers.
You’ll need a range of bar glasses to suit all your customers. Start with rocks glasses they’re for sipping spirits or short cocktails. Highball glasses should be on your shelf too for those tall mixed drinks that are a classic at any bar.
Don’t forget wine glasses. To improve the drinking experience you’ll need different shapes for red and white wine. Champagne flutes are a must for special occasions to add a touch of class to your service.
For beer enthusiasts pint glasses are a must. They’re good for a wide range of beers from ales to lagers so you’re ready for any beer request.
Also consider stocking speciality cocktail glasses like martini and margarita glasses to elevate your cocktail presentation. Each type of glass serves a purpose and improves the drinking experience so your bar stands out.
Investing in good glassware is a smart move for any would be cocktail bar.
Refrigeration, cooling and the right equipment is key to your bar’s operation. You’ll need to choose units that keep drinks cold and have them at your fingertips during peak hours.
Select the right ones, from under-bar refrigerators to ice machines and you’ll improve service speed and beverage quality.
Investing in the right cooling equipment is crucial to keep your drinks refreshing and safe. Here’s what you’ll need to meet your bar’s refrigeration and cooling needs:
1. Bar Coolers and Refrigerators: These are the basics for keeping your bottles and perishables at the right temperature. They keep your drinks fresh and food safe.
2. Ice Machines: An ice machine is a must have for any bar. It provides a steady supply of ice for mixed drinks, cocktails and other beverages.
3. Ice Buckets and Scoops: For serving, these are important for hygiene and efficiency as you run your bar.
4. Freezers: For storing frozen ingredients and speciality ice, which can add to the uniqueness of your drinks.
Good inventory management of these is key to a smooth operation. Regular checks and maintenance of your bar equipment especially refrigeration and cold storage units will save you time and money and prevent operational hiccups.
Make sure your set-up can handle the demands of a busy bar and the intricacies of speciality drink making.
Focus on beverage dispensing systems when setting up your bar and you’ll be smooth sailing. Investing in the right beverage dispensing bar equipment will improve your service speed and customer satisfaction with every pour.
Start by installing a draft beer system with kegerators, they’re perfect for keeping your beer at the right temperature and carbonation. This is a must if you’re offering multiple beers on tap.
Also consider liquor dispensers for accurate pours. These systems keep cocktail-making consistent and reduce waste by dispensing the right amount of liquor.
Wine dispensers are a must for venues serving wine by the glass. They preserve the wine and allow you to serve precise pours.
And don’t forget soda guns for mixed drinks. They speed up service and reduce the mess of multiple soda bottles.
When planning your bar layout the bar station setup is key.
You’ll need furniture and equipment arranged thoughtfully so your staff can move quickly and serve fast.
Furniture and equipment should be placed to streamline workflow and overall functionality of the space.
Setting up a bar station is key to any restaurant bar. Here’s how to create a work station that will keep your bartenders happy and your service on point.
First, check your bar equipment list and make sure you have these:
1. Speed rails: Place them where you can easily access your most used liquor bottles.
2. Under-bar sinks: For washing hands and utensils quickly without leaving the station.
3. POS system: For efficient order taking and payments so everything runs smoothly.
4. Blenders: For those popular frozen drinks.
Don’t forget about comfort and safety! Invest in good quality floor mats to reduce fatigue during long shifts.
Also make sure your bar stools are sturdy and match the height of the bar for customer comfort.
Keep your station clean and hygienic with the right cleaning equipment and hand sanitiser.
Remember the layout of your bar can make or break service and the customer experience.
Get it right and you’ll see the results quickly.
You’ll need the right equipment and supplies to maintain a clean bar area. First invest in glass washers or dishwashers designed for bar use. These machines will clean and sterilise glasses so each drink is served in a clean glass.
You’ll also need three compartment sinks for manual washing. This setup allows you to wash, rinse and sanitise utensils and glassware according to health regulations.
Also stock up on sanitising solutions and bar rags. These are for wiping down surfaces quickly and keeping the area clean during service hours. Use the sanitising solutions to kill germs and keep the environment safe for your staff and customers.
Don’t forget waste management. Have waste bins and recycling containers for all waste and recyclables. Having them easily accessible and labelled will keep the area tidy and encourage your team to use the correct waste disposal methods.
Beyond the basics bar equipment you’ll also need to consider food service equipment which will make your bar more appealing.
Make sure you’re up to date with safety regulations and compliance standards so your operation runs smoothly.
Invest in the right mix of equipment and you’ll meet all the legal requirements.
If your bar also serves food consider investing in specific equipment to streamline kitchen operations. Having the right equipment will make your life easier and you’ll be able to serve food efficiently and professionally.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Invest in these and you’ll be able to manage your food and beverage service.
Don’t forget, the food service equipment is crucial to the quality and speed of service. Don’t be stingy with these essentials they’re as important as the drinks you pour!
While setting up your bar, make sure you check compliance with safety standards to protect your staff and customers. You must be up to date with local regulations and have all the necessary safety equipment. This includes a fully stocked first aid kit, accessible fire extinguishers and working smoke detectors, all essentials for a safe environment.
Also don’t forget about ventilation. This isn’t just about comfort it’s about safety. Proper ventilation reduces hazardous contaminants and minimises the fire risk by removing flammable vapours from the air. It also gives your staff and customers a healthy and pleasant environment free from overpowering smells or smoke.
Check these systems and equipment regularly to make sure they’re in working order. Compliance isn’t a one off setup it’s an ongoing commitment.
Keep records of inspections and maintenance to show you’re committed to safety. By following these guidelines you’re not only meeting the legal requirements but also looking after everyone who walks into your bar.
Now you know the basics bar equipment you can turn your restaurant’s drink service into a selling feature.
Remember a well equipped bar attracts more customers and improves their experience and they’ll stay longer and order more.
Invest in the right tools and your bar will be the busy hub you’ve always wanted. Cheers to your business and profits with the ultimate bar setup!
Stay connected with Ascot Wholesale for more insights, tips, and industry trends. Whether you’re looking to elevate your business or simply stay informed, we’ve got you covered.
Contact us to learn how we can support your business with our extensive range of quality products and exceptional service or, explore more blogs for additional valuable content.
