When it comes to running a successful bar, having the right tools is essential. We know that commercial bar tools are the backbone of any efficient and profitable establishment. From precision pour spouts to durable shakers, these specialized instruments help bartenders create consistently delicious drinks while maximizing productivity.
In this article, we’ll explore the must-have commercial bar tools that every professional bartender needs. We’ll dive into the features that make these tools stand out and how they can elevate your bar’s performance. Whether you’re a seasoned bar owner or just starting out, understanding the importance of quality bar equipment is crucial for success in the competitive hospitality industry.
Essential Commercial Bar Tools for Professional Bartenders
We’ve compiled a list of essential commercial bar tools that every professional bartender needs to deliver top-notch service. These tools are crucial for creating high-quality cocktails efficiently and maintaining a smooth workflow behind the bar.
Bar Shakers
Bar shakers are indispensable for mixing cocktails to perfection. We recommend stainless steel shakers for their durability and versatility. The Barfly 18 Oz. Bar Shaker, available at Rapids Wholesale, comes in various finishes including:
- Black mirror
- Stainless steel
- Antique copper-plated
These options allow bartenders to choose a style that complements their bar’s aesthetic while ensuring functionality.
Jiggers
Accurate measurement is key to crafting consistent cocktails. Jiggers are essential tools for precise liquor portioning. Popular options include:
| Type | Brand | Finishes |
|---|---|---|
| Slim Jigger | Piña Barware | Brushed, Polished |
| Bell Jigger | Piña Barware | Brushed, Polished |
These jiggers provide bartenders with the accuracy needed to create perfectly balanced drinks every time.
Strainers
Strainers are critical for serving cocktails without unwanted ice or solids. The Heavy-Duty Spring Bar Strainer is a popular choice among professionals. It’s available in:
- Stainless steel
- Black
- Antique copper-plated
These finishes offer both style and functionality, ensuring a smooth straining process for every drink.
Bar Spoons
Long-handled bar spoons are versatile tools for mixing and layering drinks. We recommend spoons that are:
- 11-13 inches long
- Made of durable materials like stainless steel
These spoons allow bartenders to reach the bottom of tall glasses and create layered drinks with precision.
By equipping your commercial bar with these essential tools, you’ll empower your bartenders to work efficiently and create consistently excellent cocktails. Remember, investing in high-quality bar tools is an investment in your bar’s success and customer satisfaction.
Shakers and Strainers
Shakers and strainers are essential commercial bar tools that every professional bartender needs. These instruments play a crucial role in mixing, chilling, and serving cocktails with precision and style.
Boston Shakers
Boston shakers are a favorite among professional bartenders due to their versatility and efficiency. They consist of two parts: a metal bottom and a glass or plastic top. Here’s why they’re popular:
- Versatility: Boston shakers handle a wide range of cocktail recipes, from simple mixed drinks to complex concoctions.
- Control: They offer bartenders more control over shaking and straining, allowing for precise drink preparation.
- Efficiency: The two-piece design enables quick separation for straining, speeding up the drink-making process.
- Durability: Metal components are less likely to break compared to all-glass shakers, making them ideal for busy commercial bars.
Cobbler Shakers
Cobbler shakers are user-friendly and popular in both professional and home bar settings. They typically consist of three parts: a metal bottom, a top with a built-in strainer, and a cap. Key features include:
- Ease of use: The all-in-one design makes them simple to assemble and use, especially for beginners.
- Built-in strainer: The integrated strainer eliminates the need for a separate tool, streamlining the drink-making process.
- Seal: Cobbler shakers often provide a tighter seal, reducing the risk of leaks during shaking.
- Aesthetics: They come in various designs and finishes, adding a decorative element to the bar.
Hawthorne Strainers
Hawthorne strainers are indispensable tools for any commercial bar. They’re designed to fit snugly on top of shaker tins and mixing glasses. Key aspects include:
- Versatility: They work well with both Boston shakers and mixing glasses, making them a versatile choice for different cocktail preparations.
- Fine straining: The coiled spring around the edge ensures effective filtration of ice chips and small solids from the drink.
- Control: The finger rest and stabilizing prongs provide excellent control during the straining process.
- Durability: Typically made of stainless steel, Hawthorne strainers withstand frequent use in busy bar environments.
By incorporating these commercial bar tools into your setup, you’ll ensure efficient service and high-quality cocktail preparation. The right combination of shakers and strainers can significantly enhance your bar’s performance and customer satisfaction.
Jiggers and Measuring Tools
Jiggers and measuring tools are essential commercial bar tools that ensure precision and consistency in cocktail preparation. These instruments play a crucial role in maintaining drink quality and controlling costs in professional bar settings.
Standard Jiggers
Standard jiggers are the workhorses of any commercial bar. These double-sided measuring tools typically feature two different volumes, allowing bartenders to quickly and accurately measure liquor for cocktails. Standard jiggers come in various sizes, with common measurements including 1 oz/2 oz, 3/4 oz/1.5 oz, and 1/2 oz/1 oz. The durability and ease of use of standard jiggers make them a staple in busy bars and nightclubs.
Graduated Jiggers
Graduated jiggers offer enhanced versatility in a single tool. These measuring devices feature internal markings that allow for multiple volume measurements, typically ranging from 1/4 oz to 2 oz. Graduated jiggers are particularly useful for crafting complex cocktails that require precise measurements of various ingredients. Their design often incorporates a tapered shape, making them easy to hold and pour from, even during high-volume service periods.
Pour Spouts
Pour spouts are indispensable tools for efficient and accurate liquid dispensing in commercial bars. These attachments fit onto liquor bottles and allow for controlled pouring, reducing spillage and waste. Speed pourers, a common type of pour spout, enable bartenders to achieve consistent pours without the need for a jigger, increasing efficiency during busy periods. Some advanced pour spouts even incorporate ball bearings or other mechanisms to further improve accuracy and prevent overpouring.
Bar Spoons and Muddlers
Bar spoons and muddlers are essential commercial bar tools that every professional bartender needs for crafting high-quality cocktails. These versatile implements play crucial roles in mixing, stirring, and preparing ingredients for various drinks.
Long-Handled Bar Spoons
Long-handled bar spoons are designed for efficient mixing and stirring of cocktails in tall glasses and pitchers. These spoons typically range from 11 to 16 inches in length, allowing bartenders to reach the bottom of deep mixing glasses and shakers. The extended handle provides better control and precision when stirring drinks, ensuring proper dilution and temperature.
We’ve found that stainless steel bar spoons are popular choices for their durability and sleek appearance. For example, the Stainless Steel Bar Spoon 11″L, available at Restaurant Equippers for $2.99, offers excellent value for bars looking to stock up on essential tools. For those seeking a longer option, the Stainless Steel Bar Spoon
|
11-13/16″L from Rapids Wholesale, priced at $11.59, provides additional reach for taller glasses.
Some bar spoons come with added features to enhance their versatility. The Stainless Steel Bar Spoon with Fork 12-1/4″L, priced at $3.99 from Restaurant Equippers, includes a forked end. This dual-purpose design allows bartenders to easily pick up garnishes or ice, streamlining the drink preparation process.
Professional Muddlers
Professional muddlers are indispensable tools for extracting flavors from fruits, herbs, and spices in cocktail preparation. These sturdy implements come in various materials, each offering unique benefits for different muddling techniques.
Wooden muddlers are traditional choices, prized for their gentle yet effective muddling action. They’re ideal for delicate ingredients like mint leaves, as they minimize the risk of over-muddling and releasing bitter flavors.
Stainless steel muddlers are gaining popularity in commercial bars due to their durability and ease of cleaning. Their weight provides excellent leverage for muddling tougher ingredients, such as sugar cubes or citrus fruits.
Plastic or nylon muddlers offer a lightweight alternative that’s gentle on glassware. They’re often textured or grooved at the base to enhance muddling efficiency.
When selecting a professional muddler, we recommend considering factors such as material, length, and grip comfort. A well-designed muddler should feel balanced in hand and allow for precise control during use.
By incorporating high-quality bar spoons and muddlers into your commercial bar setup, you’ll equip your bartenders with the tools they need to create consistently excellent cocktails and elevate your establishment’s drink offerings.
Ice Tools
Ice tools are essential components of commercial bar equipment, crucial for maintaining drink quality and presentation. We’ll explore three key ice tools that every professional bar should have: ice scoops, ice tongs, and ice crushers.
Ice Scoops
Ice scoops are indispensable for efficiently portioning and transferring ice to glasses, shakers, or ice bins. These tools come in various materials, with stainless steel being a popular choice for its durability and ease of cleaning. Some ice scoops feature ergonomic designs to reduce hand fatigue during busy service periods. When selecting an ice scoop, consider factors like capacity, handle length, and compatibility with your bar’s ice bin or commercial ice maker.
Ice Tongs
Ice tongs are designed to handle ice cubes without direct hand contact, preventing contamination and maintaining hygiene standards. Typically made of stainless steel or silicone, these tools come in different sizes to accommodate various ice types. Professional bartenders often prefer tongs with serrated tips for a better grip on slippery ice cubes. Some ice tongs feature locking mechanisms for safe storage, while others have ergonomic handles for improved comfort during extended use.
Ice Crushers
Ice crushers are essential for bars that offer cocktails requiring crushed or shaved ice, such as Daiquiris or Piña Coladas. These tools come in manual and electric versions, with the latter being more suitable for high-volume establishments. Manual ice crushers often feature a hand crank and a sturdy container, while electric models can quickly process large quantities of ice. When choosing an ice crusher, consider factors like crushing speed, ice texture consistency, and noise levels to ensure it meets your bar’s specific needs.
Glassware and Garnish Tools
Glassware and garnish tools are essential components of any commercial bar setup. These items not only enhance the presentation of drinks but also contribute to the overall customer experience. Let’s explore some key tools in this category.
Glass Rimmers
Glass rimmers are indispensable tools for creating visually appealing cocktails with salt or sugar-rimmed glasses. These devices typically consist of a shallow tray with separate compartments for liquid and rimming ingredients. Bartenders moisten the glass rim in one section and then dip it into salt, sugar, or other garnishing substances in the other. This process adds both flavor and visual appeal to cocktails like margaritas or cosmopolitans.
Garnish Slicers
Garnish slicers are precision tools designed to create uniform fruit and vegetable slices for cocktail garnishes. These tools come in various forms, including handheld slicers and more advanced commercial-grade machines. Garnish slicers enable bartenders to quickly and consistently prepare citrus wheels, cucumber ribbons, and other decorative elements that enhance the appearance and flavor of drinks. By using a garnish slicer, bars can maintain a professional presentation while improving efficiency during busy service periods.
Zester and Peelers
Zesters and peelers are versatile tools that allow bartenders to add depth and complexity to cocktails through aromatic citrus oils and attractive garnishes. A zester is used to remove thin strips of citrus peel, releasing essential oils that can be expressed over a drink or used to create twists. Peelers, on the other hand, are ideal for creating longer, wider strips of citrus peel for more substantial garnishes or for use in infusions. These tools are crucial for crafting cocktails that engage multiple senses, from the visual appeal of a perfectly curled lemon twist to the burst of aroma from freshly zested orange peel.
Bottle Openers and Corkscrews
Bottle openers and corkscrews are indispensable commercial bar tools for any establishment serving bottled beverages. We’ll explore the essential types and their features to help you choose the right ones for your bar.
Speed Openers
Speed openers, also known as church key openers, are designed for quick and efficient bottle opening in high-volume bar settings. These versatile tools typically feature a sharp edge for cutting off bottle caps and a lever for prying them off. Speed openers are essential for bars that serve a large number of bottled beers or sodas, allowing bartenders to work quickly and efficiently during busy periods.
Electric Wine Openers
Electric wine openers are becoming increasingly popular in commercial bar settings due to their ease of use and efficiency. These devices offer a quick and effortless way to open multiple wine bottles, making them ideal for busy restaurants and bars. Electric wine openers typically come with rechargeable batteries and can open dozens of bottles on a single charge. They’re particularly useful for establishments that serve a high volume of wine or have staff members who may struggle with manual corkscrews.
When selecting bottle openers and corkscrews for your commercial bar, it’s important to consider durability, ease of use, and efficiency. Investing in high-quality tools will ensure smooth service and customer satisfaction. Remember to pair these tools with other essential commercial bar equipment like bar drink rails, glass washers, and underbar ice bins to create a fully functional and efficient bar setup.
Storage and Organization Tools
Efficient storage and organization are crucial for a well-functioning commercial bar. We’ll explore essential tools that help keep your bar area tidy and optimize workflow.
Speed Rails
Speed rails are indispensable components of a commercial bar setup. These metal racks, typically mounted on the underside of the bar counter, hold frequently used liquor bottles for quick access. Speed rails allow bartenders to grab bottles swiftly, reducing preparation time and improving service efficiency. Most speed rails are made of stainless steel for durability and easy cleaning, with some models featuring adjustable dividers to accommodate various bottle sizes.
Bottle Caddies
Bottle caddies are versatile storage solutions that help organize and transport multiple bottles simultaneously. These portable carriers come in various materials, including plastic, metal, and wood, each offering unique benefits. Plastic caddies are lightweight and affordable, while metal options provide durability for high-volume bars. Wooden caddies offer a rustic aesthetic suitable for craft cocktail establishments. Many bottle caddies feature divided compartments to prevent bottles from clinking together during transport, ensuring safe handling of valuable spirits.
In addition to speed rails and bottle caddies, commercial bars benefit from other storage and organization tools:
- Underbar ice bins: These insulated containers keep ice readily available for drink preparation.
- Glass racks: Hanging or stackable racks efficiently store glassware, maximizing counter space.
- Liquor shelves: Wall-mounted or freestanding shelves showcase premium spirits while keeping them organized.
- Bar wells: These built-in stations house mixers, garnishes, and other essentials within arm’s reach.
By incorporating these storage and organization tools, bars can streamline operations, improve bartender efficiency, and create a more visually appealing workspace. The right combination of these commercial bar tools ensures a smooth service flow and enhances the overall customer experience.
Cleaning and Maintenance Equipment
Maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in a commercial bar is crucial for both customer satisfaction and regulatory compliance. We’ll explore essential cleaning and maintenance equipment that every bar should have to ensure a spotless and efficient operation.
Bar Mats
Bar mats are indispensable tools for maintaining a clean and organized workspace. These durable mats serve multiple purposes:
- Protect bar surfaces from spills and drips
- Provide a non-slip surface for glassware
- Facilitate easy cleanup of liquids
- Reduce noise from glass placement
We recommend using high-quality rubber bar mats with raised edges to contain spills effectively. These mats are easy to clean and sanitize, ensuring a hygienic bar environment.
Glass Washers
Glass washers are essential for efficiently cleaning and sanitizing glassware in high-volume bar settings. These commercial-grade machines offer several advantages:
- Rapid cleaning cycles (30-120 seconds)
- High-temperature washing and rinsing for proper sanitation
- Consistent cleaning results
- Reduced labor costs
- Increased glassware lifespan
When selecting a glass washer, consider factors such as:
- Capacity (glasses per hour)
- Energy efficiency
- Water consumption
- Ease of maintenance
Popular models include undercounter glass washers for smaller establishments and larger, high-capacity washers for busy bars. Investing in a quality glass washer ensures clean, sparkling glassware while improving overall bar efficiency.
Top Commercial Bar Tool Brands
In the competitive world of commercial bartending, the quality of tools can make or break a bar’s efficiency and reputation. We’ve identified several top brands that consistently deliver professional-grade bar tools, ensuring bartenders have the best equipment at their fingertips.
Cocktail Kingdom stands out as a leader in the industry, offering a range of high-quality, professionally designed barware. Their Koriko® cocktail strainers, Patino tasting glasses, and Yarai® mixing glasses are favorites among professional bartenders. These tools combine functionality with durability, making them essential for any commercial bar setting.
Piña Barware has earned its reputation for producing durable, professionally graded bartending tools. Their Slim Jigger and Porcelain Mixing Glass are particularly popular in high-volume bars. These tools are designed to withstand the rigors of busy service while maintaining precision and style.
Barfly is another brand that’s gained traction in the commercial bar scene. Available through retailers like Rapids Restaurant Equipment, Barfly offers a comprehensive range of bar tools. Their stainless steel bar shakers, spring bar strainers, and bar spoons are recognized for their quality and longevity in commercial settings.
For bars looking to stock up on a variety of supplies, Restaurant Equippers is a go-to source. They offer an extensive selection of bar tools from different brands, including their own line of products. This variety allows bar owners to choose the best tools that fit their specific needs and budget.
When selecting commercial bar tools, it’s crucial to consider factors such as durability, ease of use, and cleaning efficiency. These top brands have proven their worth in professional settings, providing bartenders with the reliable tools they need to craft exceptional drinks and maintain a smooth workflow.
Conclusion
We’ve explored the essential commercial bar tools that every professional establishment needs. From shakers and jiggers to ice tools and cleaning equipment these instruments are vital for creating exceptional drinks and maintaining a smooth workflow. Investing in high-quality tools from reputable brands ensures durability efficiency and customer satisfaction. By equipping your bar with the right tools you’ll set the stage for success in the competitive world of mixology and hospitality. Remember it’s not just about having the tools but using them skillfully to craft unforgettable experiences for your patrons.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the essential commercial bar tools every professional bartender needs?
The essential commercial bar tools for professional bartenders include bar shakers, jiggers, strainers, bar spoons, and muddlers. Other important tools are ice scoops, ice tongs, ice crushers, glass rimmers, garnish slicers, zesters, peelers, bottle openers, corkscrews, and storage and organization equipment. These tools are crucial for efficient drink preparation, precise measurements, and maintaining hygiene standards.
Why are stainless steel bar shakers recommended?
Stainless steel bar shakers are recommended for their durability and aesthetic appeal. They are resistant to rust, easy to clean, and can withstand frequent use in busy bar environments. Stainless steel also maintains temperature well, which is important for properly chilling cocktails. Additionally, these shakers come in various finishes, allowing bars to choose options that match their decor.
What are the benefits of using a Boston shaker?
Boston shakers are favored for their versatility, control, efficiency, and durability. They consist of two parts – typically a glass and a metal tin – that create a tight seal when shaken. This design allows bartenders to see the cocktail as it’s mixed, provides better control over the shaking process, and enables quick and efficient drink preparation.
Why are jiggers important in cocktail preparation?
Jiggers are crucial for ensuring precision and consistency in cocktail preparation. They help bartenders measure exact amounts of liquor and other ingredients, maintaining drink quality and controlling costs. Standard jiggers are double-sided measuring tools available in various sizes, while graduated jiggers feature internal markings for multiple volume measurements, ideal for crafting complex cocktails.
What role do bar spoons play in cocktail making?
Bar spoons are essential for efficient mixing and stirring of cocktails, especially in tall glasses. Typically ranging from 11 to 16 inches in length, these long-handled spoons allow bartenders to reach the bottom of glasses and pitchers easily. They’re also used for layering drinks and adding small amounts of ingredients. Stainless steel bar spoons are popular for their durability and ease of cleaning.
How do ice tools contribute to drink quality?
Ice tools, including ice scoops, tongs, and crushers, are crucial for maintaining drink quality and presentation. Ice scoops allow for efficient portioning and transfer of ice, while tongs help maintain hygiene by avoiding direct hand contact. Ice crushers are essential for bars serving cocktails that require crushed or shaved ice, enabling bartenders to create the right texture and dilution for specific drinks.
What are the benefits of using speed openers in a bar?
Speed openers are designed for quick and efficient bottle opening in high-volume settings. They allow bartenders to open multiple bottles rapidly, reducing wait times and improving service efficiency. These tools are typically durable and ergonomically designed for comfortable use during long shifts, making them essential for busy bars and restaurants.
Why are storage and organization tools important in a commercial bar?
Storage and organization tools, such as speed rails, bottle caddies, underbar ice bins, glass racks, and liquor shelves, are crucial for optimizing workflow in a commercial bar. They help keep frequently used items within easy reach, organize inventory, and maintain a clean, efficient workspace. Proper organization improves bartender efficiency, reduces service times, and enhances the overall customer experience.
How do cleaning and maintenance equipment contribute to bar operations?
Cleaning and maintenance equipment, including bar mats and glass washers, are essential for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in a commercial bar. Bar mats protect surfaces, provide non-slip areas, and facilitate easy cleanup. Glass washers efficiently clean and sanitize glassware, ensuring high standards of hygiene and presentation. These tools help maintain a clean, safe environment and contribute to customer satisfaction.
What should be considered when choosing commercial bar tools?
When choosing commercial bar tools, consider durability, ease of use, and compatibility with your bar’s needs. Look for reputable brands like Cocktail Kingdom, Piña Barware, and Barfly that offer professional-grade equipment. Select tools that can withstand frequent use, are easy to clean, and enhance bartender efficiency. Also, ensure the tools complement your bar’s style and meet specific requirements for the types of drinks you serve.
