On The Rocks: Bar Essentials You Need for Your Restaurant Business

Running a restaurant can be a challenging business to manage. There are so many things to think about, from the food you’re serving to the decor of your establishment. But one thing that’s often overlooked is the bar.

Your bar is an important part of your business, and it’s essential to have the right equipment and supplies for it. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the essentials you need for your bar and why they’re important.

1. Menu

Your bar menu is one of the important factors of your business. It’s what will attract customers and keep them coming back. Make sure you have a variety of drinks available, including both cocktails and non-alcoholic options. You should also have a good selection of appetizers to keep your customers fed and happy.

It’s also important to have a varied menu that offers something for everyone. This means you’ll need both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, as well as savory and sweet appetizers. Your menu should be easy to read and understand, with clear prices listed for each item.

2. Alcohol Selection

One of the most important things you need for your bar is a good selection of liquor. This includes both popular and obscure brands, as well as a variety of spirits and mixers.

Having a good selection of liquor will ensure that your customers can find something to suit their taste, no matter what they’re looking for. It’s also important to have a good stock of beer and wine. Make sure you have a variety of styles and brands available, so there’s something for everyone.

You can offer specialty drinks to your menu as well. This could include cocktails, mocktails, and non-alcoholic options. It’s important to have a good selection of drinks so that your customers can find something they’ll enjoy.

3. Garnishes and Mixers

In order to make your cocktails look and taste their best, you’ll need a variety of garnishes and mixers. This includes things like fruit juices, syrups, seltzers. Make sure you have a good selection of both sweet and savory flavors so that you can create any type of cocktail your customers might want.

Garnishes like mint, lemon, lime, cherry, oranges, and olives are great things to have on hand for topping off your creations.

4. Fountain Drinks

Another essential for your bar is a fountain drink machine. This is important for two reasons: first, it will help keep your customers hydrated; and second, it will help you save money on buying bottled drinks.

Having a fountain drink machine will also allow you to offer a variety of drink options to your customers.

You can also use these fountain drinks to create mixed drinks and chasers for your customers.

5. Signature Drinks

Exclusivity attracts interest. If you want to really make your bar stand out, offer signature drinks that can only be found at your establishment.

This could be something as simple as a twist on a classic cocktail or an original creation. Signature drinks are a great way to attract attention and interest to your bar.

Specialty creations are also a great conversation starter, so your customers can mingle and get to know each other while enjoying their drinks.

6. Contests and Prize Incentives

A great way to attract customers to your bar is by offering contest and prize incentives. This could be something like a free drink for the person who can guess the secret ingredient in your signature cocktail.

Or you could offer a discount on drinks for anyone who can prove they’re 21 or over. Contest and prize incentives are a great way to get people interested in your bar and what it has to offer.

You can also play drinking games to market new alcohol brands or drink blends.

7. Ice Machine

An ice machine is another essential piece of equipment for your bar. This is because ice is used in a lot of mixed drinks and cocktails. Without an ice machine, you’ll have to buy ice from the store, which can be expensive. A good ice machine will produce enough ice for your needs and will help you save money in the long run.

8. Good Glasses

Another essential for your bar is glassware. You’ll need glasses for all sorts of drinks, from cocktails to beer and wine. Make sure you have enough glasses for all your customers, as well as extras in case some get broken.

You’ll also need to have a variety of glassware for different types of drinks. For example, you’ll need wine glasses, pint glasses, and shot glasses.

9. Bar Tools

Another important aspect of your bar is the tools you use to make drinks. This includes things like shakers, strainers, jiggers, and muddlers. You may want to consider a whipping canister as well. Canisters can help you make large batches of drinks quickly and easily. Having the right tools will ensure that your bartenders can make multiple orders in an efficient manner.

Some other helpful bar tools are a wine key, bottle opener, and corkscrew. These are essential for serving wine and beer.

Make sure your bar is stocked with napkins, towels, and extra glasses for easy clean-up and drink refills.

10. Appetizers

Another essential for your bar is a selection of appetizers. Appetizers are a great way to keep your customers fed and happy, and they can also help increase drink sales. Make sure you have a variety of appetizers available, including both savory and sweet options.

There are few options of quick snacks and starters that patrons like to enjoy with their drinks like; chips and dip, wings, sliders, and pretzels.

There are a few fried options like mozzarella sticks, onion rings, and chicken fingers. You could also have some fruit or veggie platters. Cheese plates are also a good option.

You can even get creative with your appetizers and offer something unique that will really stand out. Every restaurant has a unique, one-of-a-kind dish that keeps people coming back; yours can be a bar-starter.

These are just a few of the bare essentials you need for your restaurant business. With these items, you’ll be able to create a successful and thriving bar that your customers will love. So what are you waiting for? Get started stocking up on all the essential bar supplies today. Cheers!

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