My bar is great. I’ve spent several years and a good chunk of money perfecting it. I’ve got all the bells and whistles – the best liquor, the coolest glasses, and even a little bar fridge to keep everything ice cold. But what good is all that without the right accessories? No matter how lovely your liquor or glasses are, your home bar won’t be complete if you don’t have the right tools and accessories. Here’s a list of must-haves for any home bar:
1. Cocktail shaker
This is essential for making mixed drinks. You can find them in many materials, from stainless steel to glass, and various styles. I have a few, but my favorite is a classic Boston shaker, which consists of two tins – one that fits inside the other.
2. Cobbler shaker
Source: Advanced Mixology
This is similar to a cocktail shaker but has a filter built in. This is great for drinks that need to be strained, like martinis or margaritas. It isn’t quiet, but it gets the job done.
3. French shaker
Source: waterdrop®
This cocktail shaker has a built-in strainer and is very popular with bartenders. It’s also known as a Parisian shaker.
4. Jigger
Source: Target Corporation
A jigger is a small measuring cup used to measure the perfect amount of liquor for a drink. They usually have two measurement marks – one for 1.5 ounces (the standard ‘shot’) and one for 3 ounces (a ‘double’). I keep a jigger at my bar to ensure my drinks are right.
5. Japanese jigger
This is a small, metal jigger with two different measurement marks – one for 0.5 ounces and one for 1 ounce. This is an excellent tool for bartenders who want to be precise with their measurements.
6. Pony jigger
This small cocktail shaker holds 1.5 ounces – the perfect amount for a single drink. Look for one made of stainless steel or glass.
7. Pourers
Source: SHOP HSTV
Pourers are little spouts that fit into liquor bottles. They help you pour the perfect amount of liquor without making a mess. I have them on all my bottles, and they’re a lifesaver.
8. Cocktail strainer
Source: Piña Barware
This is used to strain mixed drinks into a glass. It’s a must-have to ensure your drinks are smooth and free of lumps or chunks. It’s a must-have for cocktails with fresh fruit or vegetables.
9. Bitters
Source: Local Palate Marketplace
Bitters are a type of flavoring agent used in cocktails. They’re usually made from herbs, spices, or fruit, adding a unique flavor to drinks. I like to keep a few different kinds on hand to experiment with.
10. Ice bucket
Source: NUDE Glass
A good ice bucket is essential for keeping your ice cold. I like to have a few on hand – one for my bar and one for my kitchen. I also keep a few small ones around for when I entertain.
11. Ice tongs
Source: Cirrus Products
Tongs are a must-have for picking up ice without getting your hands wet. I like to have a few different sizes – small ones for picking up cubes and large ones for picking up ice blocks.
12. Ice pick and knife set
This is an excellent tool for carving ice into cubes or shaping it into balls. I use it all the time when I’m making mixed drinks. Choose a set that includes a pick and a knife.
13. Bar spoon
A bar spoon is a long, thin spoon for stirring mixed drinks. They’re essential for getting the perfect consistency in your drinks. There are a few types. I have several ones, but my favorite is a classic muddler spoon. I often choose the European over the American because it’s a bit longer.
14. Muddler
A muddler is used for crushing fruit, herbs, and spices. It’s great for making cocktails with fresh ingredients. I have a few different ones, but my favorite is wooden.
15. Cocktail picks
I like to keep various choices on hand to add flair to my glasses. Cocktail picks garnish drinks with fruit, herbs, or olives. To save money, I often buy in bulk.
16. Corkscrew
Source: SHOP HSTV
A corkscrew is a must for any home bar. I like to keep a few on hand – one for myself and one for guests. I also want to keep a wine key on hand for when I entertain.
17. Strainer
This is necessary for straining cocktails into glasses. There are several types, but the most common is the Hawthorne strainer, which has a coil that fits over the edge of the glass. I have a stainless steel one that’s easy to clean.
18. Fine mesh strainer
Source: Advanced Mixology
This is a must-have for cocktails that need to be strained twice – like a martini. It’s also great for removing the pulp from juices. Wash this right away, as it can rust if left wet.
19. Atomizer
An atomizer is a tool used to mist cocktails with liquor or water. It’s great for adding a little extra flavor to drinks. I like to keep one on hand to make perfect drinks.
20. Peg measure
A peg measure is a small, handheld tool used to measure liquor. I have one at my bar to impress my guests. They’re great for measuring shots or small amounts of liquor.
21. Glass topper cocktail smoker
Source: Uncommon Goods
This is an excellent tool for adding a smoky flavor to cocktails. It’s easy to use and adds a unique flavor to drinks. I store one for special occasions, such as parties and similar gatherings.
22. Bloody Mary tree
A Bloody Mary tree is a great way to garnish a Bloody Mary. It’s easy to use and makes a beautiful presentation. I try to pull these out to use a few times per year.
23. Whiskey water dropper
A whiskey water dropper is a great way to add a little bit of water to your whiskey without diluting it too much. I like to keep one on hand to use when I’m enjoying a glass of whiskey neat.
24. Tequila tasting board
Source: Uncommon Goods
A tequila tasting board is a great way to taste different tequilas. It’s easy to use and allows you to try new things. Plus, who doesn’t love tequila shots?
25. Bar mat
Source: A Bar Above Barware
A bar mat is a must-have for protecting your countertop. I like to keep a few on hand – one for my bar and one for my kitchen. I also keep a few small ones around, so I don’t have to worry about spills.
26. Bottle Lift
Source: Nueby
These magnetic strips are perfect for keeping my craft beer selection in one section of my fridge. I never have to worry about losing a bottle or having one tip over and make a mess. They also are great for adding more space to my small fridge.
27. Wine and whiskey stones
Source: SHOP HSTV
Wine and whiskey stones are a great way to keep your drinks cold without diluting them. I like to keep a few in my freezer, so I always have them on hand.
28. Cocktail napkins
Source: This is The Last Line
Speaking of protecting your counters, cocktail napkins are essential for protecting your furniture from spills. I enjoy keeping a stack of them at my bar and kitchen. I also purchase different themes for holidays and other occasions.
29. Cocktail napkin holder
Source: Global Industrial
A cocktail napkin holder is a must for any home bar. I like to keep mine on the counter so I can quickly grab a napkin when I need one. Plus, it simply looks nicer.
30. Bar towels
Bar towels are essential for keeping your bar clean. I like to keep a few on hand – one for wiping down the counter and one for drying glasses. I also keep a few in my kitchen for spills.
31. Glass rimmer
A glass rimmer is a tool to rim glasses with salt, sugar, or other materials. I like to keep one on hand to rim glasses for cocktails. My favorite is for Margaritas.
32. Peeler
Source: Bed Bath & Beyond
A peeler is a great way to garnish cocktails. I like to keep one on hand to add a lemon or lime twist. Look for one with a pointed end to make life easier.
33. Foil cutter
Source: SHOP HSTV
A foil cutter is a great way to remove the foil from wine bottles. I like to keep one on hand to open wine bottles quickly. It also reduces cuts from trying to remove the foil with a knife.
34. Wine aerator
Source: Quill.com
A wine aerator is a great way to oxygenate wine. I like to keep one on hand to aerate wine before serving. This allows the wine to open up and taste better.
35. Wine decanter
Source: SHOP HSTV
A wine decanter is another great way to aerate wine and improve the flavor. I like to keep one on hand to decant wine before serving. This also makes a great presentation.
36. Wine stopper
A wine stopper is a great way to keep wine fresh. I like to keep one on hand to seal open wine bottles. This prevents oxidation and keeps the wine tasting great.
37. Wine preserver
A wine preserver is a great way to keep wine fresh. I like to keep one on hand to seal open wine bottles. This prevents oxidation and keeps the wine tasting great.
38. Whipped cream dispenser
A whipped cream dispenser is a great way to make fancy cocktails. I like to keep one on hand to make drinks like Irish coffees and chocolate martinis.
39. Beer sampler paddle
A beer sampler paddle is a great way to taste different beers. It’s easy to use and allows you to try new things. Plus, who doesn’t love to try new craft beers?
40. Bartenders knife
Source: Giften Market
You need to cut more than ice. This bartender’s knife can handle slicing fruit, cutting garnishes, and even opening bottles. I have a few knives behind the bar for various tasks.
41. Cutting Board
Source: Advanced Mixology
I don’t cut on my counter. I have a small cutting board that I use for all my fruit prep. It’s easy to clean and store.
42. Cocktail glasses
Of course, you need a glass to drink your cocktails out of! I like to have a variety of glasses on hand, from martini glasses to tumblers. I also like to keep a few different sizes – small for sipping and large for gulping.
43. Collins Glass
Source: WebstaurantStore
A Collins glass is a tall, skinny glass that’s perfect for cocktails like gin and tonic. I also like to use them for tall drinks like Long Island iced tea or lemonade. Of course, the main purpose is for the famous Tom Collins cocktails.
44. Shot glasses
Source: DiscountMugs Promotional Products
No home bar is complete without a few shot glasses. I like to have a variety of sizes and types – from plastic to glass to ceramic. I also want to keep a few different colors and styles on hand.
45. Wine glasses
I like to keep several sizes and shapes – from small to large, round to oval. I also like to keep a few different colors on hand—Okay, maybe I’m a bit of a wine lover! If you’re a fan of wine, then you’ll need a few wine glasses.
46. Champagne flutes
Source: Macy’s
No home bar is complete without a few champagne flutes. I also have a few special ones that I only use occasionally, such as for New Year’s Eve. I like to keep various sizes and shapes – from tall to short, wide to narrow.
47. Pilsner glasses
Source: Global Industrial
If you’re a fan of beer, then you’ll need a few pilsner glasses. I have a set for sports games and another for more formal occasions. I also like to keep a few different colors on hand – from clear to amber.
48. Mason jars
Mason jars are great for storing and serving cocktails. During the summer, I love using these at my poolside bar. The drinks seem to taste better in Mason jars!
49. Coupe (glass)
Source: Advanced Mixology
A coupe is a type of champagne glass characterized by its shallow bowl and flared rim. The coupe’s shape allows the champagne to keep its bubbles longer than other glasses. I have a set of them for parties.
50. Highball glass
The highball glass is a type of glass that is taller and narrower than a traditional drinking glass. We typically use highball glasses for mixed drinks or serving soda, water, or other non-alcoholic beverages. I keep a few of these on hand for when the kids have friends over.
51. Pint glass
Source: Fanatics
A pint glass is a type of glass that is used for serving beer. Pint glasses come in a variety of sizes and shapes, but they typically have a capacity of 16 ounces. I have a few different pint glasses for other occasions.
52. Tumbler
Source: North Drinkware
A tumbler is a type of short, stout glass with a flat bottom. I typically use tumblers to serve whiskey, bourbon, or other neat spirits (without ice). I like to keep a few tumblers on hand for when I want to enjoy a nice glass of whiskey.
53. Snack Bowls
Source: Uncommon Goods
Snack bowls are essential for any home bar. They’re great for holding nuts, pretzels, and other snacks. I also like to keep a few different types on hand – from plastic to glass to ceramic.
