Essential Bar Accessories - Running a Bar and What You Need

Running a bar, like any business, is all about being prepared and ensuring you have the right tools for the job. In ordering bar accessories or buying bar supplies it doesn't pay to cut corners or by poor quality equipment.
The requirements for running a successful bar differ from bar to bar, location to location but there are some essentials and basic bar equipment that all bars, pubs, restaurants and clubs should have. Whether it is a local pub or uptown club, there are basic drinks and equipment that every establishment should have in stock.
Here is a list of the most essential bar equipment and accessories::

The essentials

These items should be behind every bar. When purchasing look for quality and durability, there is no point in buying bar accessories that are cheap if they break and need replacing. For most food or drink accessories always look for stainless steel. It's easy to clean, strong and hygienic.

• * Corkscrew - no bar can function without being able to open wine bottles
• * Cleaning products - For wiping surfaces, bar, the pumps etc. A bar has to be kept clean so a good supply of clothes and cleaning items should always be kept in stock.
• * Bottle Opener - How else are you going to open the mixers
• * Ice Bucket and scoop - People don't like warm drinks so ice is a must as is the bucket, scoop and tongs.
• * Measures - necessary for spirits. Look for stainless steel measures although glass is nearly as good - although less durable if dropped.
• * Towels - necessary for drying glasses and the hundred and one other jobs bar towels finds themselves tasked with. 100% cotton is by far the best option.
• * Cocktail accessories - everything from the stirrer, shaker, garnish, to perhaps an electric blender. If cocktails are asked for you need to be able to at least serve the basics so ensure you have enough cocktail accessories and equipment.
• * Cutting board and knife - needed for lemons, lime and other fruit. This too needs to be easy to clean. So get a good sharp stainless steel knife and easy to clean cutting board.