How to Set Up a Cocktail Bar

A well-stocked cocktail bar can be your best friend after a long day or a spur of the moment party. It's not that hard to put together with a few common bar and wine tools. Whether you have a full bar in your home or you are simply using a regular table set with glasses and barware, you can set up a stunning cocktail bar with ease self-serve or with a bartender!

Things You'll Need

• Corkscrew
• Bottle opener
• Strainer
• Jigger
• Stirrers
• Straws
• Ice bucket and tongs
• Paper towels or rags
• Glasses (Beer, Wine and Martini)
• Liquor
• Garnishes
• Cocktail recipes
• Juices

Instructions

1. Purchase appropriate liquors and mixers for your cocktails. Basics would include: Vodka, Rum, Whiskey, Red and White Wine.

2. Make sure you have the appropriate glasses for your drinks! You can't serve beer in a wine glass without getting a few looks!

3. Prepare fruit slices, cherries and olives for garnishes if you are having a party.

4. If you don't have a full bar, cover a large table with a dark colored table cloth to hide spills. Try to make sure the table is not round as it is not a conducive to a bar like scene.

5. Arrange the liquor and mixers at the center of the table. If guests will be making their own drinks, make sure there are two bottles of each item, one at each side of the table for easier access. If you have a full bar set up your rack to work for you best. Place garnishes, glasses and barware at the ends of the table.

6. Provide a corkscrew, bottle opener, jigger, strainer and any other necessary bar and wine tools in the middle of the table to help guests prepare their drinks. If you have you are tending bar, make sure you have 2 sets, they always seem to walk away as the party proceeds.

Tips & Warnings

• Drink Responsibly

• Consider the floor the bar is on... Can it take a few spills?

Resources

• Every Bar Accessory You Could Need
• Beer Glasses
• Wine Glasses
• Everything You Need for A Great Martini