If you're in the practice of having an occasional drink, then having the correct barware is a nice touch that will enhance the experience. If you're planning on having a cocktail party or having to mix drinks quickly then the correct bar equipment is absolutely essential.
When you're first getting started, having a three to five piece beginning bar set and cocktail napkins should be sufficient. Beginning bar sets usually include a shaker, bar-spoon, and strainer. As you continue making drinks, however, your further investment in the proper tools will continue to enrich the experience and allow you to make a wider variety of drinks.
You may also want to peruse the recommended alcohols if you're putting together a home bar.
Disposable resources
There are a few things you should always have on hand, although they may be used up by you and your guests and in the normal course of use:
- Cocktail napkins and coasters
- Swizzle sticks
- Straws, both long and short ones
- Cocktail picks
Basic set of tools
As you complete your bar, mixing drinks will become easier, faster, and more fun.. If you are also interested in glassware available for your home bar, please peruse Assorted Glassware
- Blender
- Bottle opener
- Corkscrew
- Can opener or Churchkey
- Measuring cups and spoon set
- Bar spoon
- Jigger
- Juice squeezer
- Electric blender
- Cutting board and a sharp knife
- Ice bucket and tongs
- Mixing glass
- Shaker and strainer
- Bottle sealers
- Towels
Additional equipment
In addition you may wish to buy some other equipment to make things a bit easier and to be able to make additional drinks.
- Citrus reamer
- Funnel
- Glass Pitcher
- Ice crusher, preferably electric
- Ice pick or chipper
- Ice scoop
- Muddler
- Nutmeg grater
- Paring Knife
- Vegetable peeler or a twist cutter for fruit peels