I love sipping a cocktail at one of my favorite restaurants, but heading out for a drink isn’t always an option (especially over the past year). Having a dedicated home bar means you can craft a beverage from the comfort of home. Plus, your guests will be delighted with the options!
Integrating a home bar doesn’t require a kitchen remodel – in fact, you can complete a setup in one afternoon. Keep reading to learn how to set up a bar in 3 simple steps!
1. Find the Perfect Space
The perfect place for a bar isn’t necessarily where you have the most amount of space. Look for an area that flows with your entertaining space: the kitchen, dining room, or living room are all great options for a home bar. A bar in the basement is another popular option, but if you rarely spend time down there, it will end up becoming a hassle.
Just about every home has a bit of space that you don’t quite know what to do with. An empty corner, nook, or even a small closet can be transformed into a functional home bar. Remember, a simple set up doesn’t require a lot of space when you get creative with shelves, cabinets, and tables.
2. Choose Your Set-Up
Now that you found your space, you can take measurements and decide on your presentation. Take a look at some popular options:
Bar Cart
A bar cart is compact and moveable – making it easy to roll out to the living room after dinner or the patio when the weather is warm. When organized neatly, a bar cart makes a stylish statement in any room.
Console Table and Tray
Any console table, sideboard, credenza, or buffet can be transformed into a functional bar. Use the cabinets to store seldom-used glassware and liquor, and place a tray on top for your most-used items. You can even opt to take all the cabinet doors off, leaving an open display.
Built-ins
A built-in wet bar is the ultimate home bar, and the options are endless. Do you want hanging racks for glassware, or cabinets above the sink? A wine fridge can be added, a backsplash can elevate the style, and the counter is the ideal space to mix up your favorite drink.
3. Gather the Essentials
Even if your go-to is a glass of wine, having the essential tools on hand makes it easy to craft new drinks for when guests visit. Here are some basics to get you started:
Foundational Spirits
- Gin
- Vodka
- Bourbon Whiskey
- Scotch Whiskey
- Tequila
- White Rum
- Dark Rum
Tools
- Shaker
- Mixing Glass
- Strainers
- Bar Spoon
- Muddler
- Jiggers
- Ice-mold freezing trays (square and round molds)
Bitters, Mixers, and Garnishes
- Angostura Aromatic BItters
- Simple Syrup
- Dry and Sweet Vermouth
- Club Soda
- Tonic Water
- Juice or Soda
- Luxardo Maraschino Cherries
- Fruit for garnishes
Glassware
- Highball and Collins glasses
- Rocks glasses
- Martini glasses
- Margarita glasses
- Red Wine glasses
- White Wine glasses
- Champagne glasses
- Beer glasses
- Specialty glasses (i.e., Coupe, Snifter, Cordial)
Now that your bar is set up, all you need to do is learn how to mix the perfect drink! Let me know what you’ll be sipping on this week!
