Raising the Bar

The key to impressing customers by serving up classic cocktails in a flourish is to have the best possible bar equipment. Managers and staff can often be let down by poor quality, unsatisfactory performance of their tools and the look and appearance of any gadgets that they may use. The right bar equipment can improve the performance of staff and ensure that customers will have a pleasurable evening in a bar that runs smoothly.

Depending on the style of the establishment, a varying range of bar equipment will be necessary. All bars will generally require drip trays for newly poured or mixed drinks to be placed on and to catch any mistakes when serving. However, a traditional English pub manager for example, may choose to purchase trays which are styled in a traditional brass effect. Alternatively, the supervisor of a cosmopolitan cocktail bar might prefer a sleek stainless steel option. Purchasing the correct style of accessories to complement any establishment is essential practice. It will encourage a theme throughout the bar or pub, and an attention to detail is often noticed and appreciated by customers.

Creating and serving cocktails can often be a more demanding task than selling ready-to-serve drinks in bottles or on tap. The mixing and blending required can require many different styles of bar equipment, and can often become messy or disorganised if not co-ordinated effectively. A stock of high quality tools which enable staff to work quickly and neatly will speed up service and keep any preparation areas risk free. For example, many cocktails require a garnish such a slice of lemon or lime. Instead of keeping a chopping board and selection of fruits behind the bar which would get messy quickly, it may be easier to pre-prepare slices and store them in smart airtight boxes. These can also be in a colour or finish that complements the surroundings, such as black or stainless steel. Touches such as this will enable staff to access the ingredients they need quickly and easily, without involving too much preparation. Similarly, it may be beneficial to pre-mix popular blends and juices, and store them ready for use. Neat trays for holding salt and sugar are another aid, for dipping the rims of glasses intended for margaritas and similar cocktails. Keeping the work area as simple and neat as possible will ensure that is runs smoothly and safely. A messy bar creates more risk of staff slipping on spilt drinks or dropping glasses, and preparation of ingredients and garnishes can involve knives, which should not be used carelessly in a busy working environment.

Sleek cocktail shakers, stainless steel strainers, muddlers and stirrers, and chrome plated juice extractors will all create a professional and high quality image in any bar. Customers will appreciate seeing their drinks prepared and served with impressive bar equipment, and will return often when it is coupled with fast and friendly service. By creating the right atmosphere of quality and care, patrons will choose a good cocktail bar for celebrations and special events, which always come with a group and friends and family of course!

back