Bar Spoon
Doubles as a measuring spoon and a stir stick.
Bartender's Handbook
Unless you're a walking encyclopedia of cocktail recipes.
Bar Towels
Keep your space clean.
Bottle Pourers
This is a must for mixing spirits.
Bottle Stoppers
For when screw-top bottles annoy you
Cocktail Picks
Cocktail Shaker
Don't even think about stirring every mixed drink.
Corkscrew/Wine Opener
It isn't always about style — ease of use is more important.
Cutting Board
It should be large enough to be useful but small enough to store easily.
Electric Blender
Definitely comes in handy for many cocktail recipes.
Fresh Fruit
No liquid fruit can replace the quality of fresh fruit in a cocktail recipe.
Glassware
Be sure to have a good assortment to cover most liquor, wine and beer (see list, below).
Grater
To grate spices.
Ice Bucket
Perfect for small gatherings, but think ice tube for anything bigger.
Ice Crusher
Normal ice cubes are too big for most cocktails.
Ice, Ice Tongs and Scoop
Jigger
This is a must if you can't measure liquids accurately.
Juicer
Look for one that is easy to use.
Margarita Rimmer
Beats using a wet paper towel.
Martini Pitcher
For those best-stirred-and-not-shaken drinks.
Mixing Glass
Don't play the guessing game.
Muddler
Make sure it's long enough.
Napkins and Coasters
Useful for soaking up weepy drinks.
Paring Knife
For cutting fruit garnishes.
Rubber Spill Mat
Sure makes cleaning up a bit easier.
Strainer
Don't do with your hands what you can do with a nice strainer.
Swizzle Sticks
Go for a variety (in size, color and shape).
Sword Picks
For garnishes.
Glassware
- Martini glasses
- Highball glasses
- Old-Fashioned glasses
- Wineglasses (all shapes)
- Margarita glasses
- Heavy-based Collins glasses
- Heavy-based rocks glasses
- Hurricane glasses
- Tulip-shaped champagne flutes
- Shot glasses
- Brandy/cognac glasses
- Beer mugs
- Candy jar (with a nice variety of candies and nuts available)
- Ashtray
Tip: Shot glasses are great conversation pieces. Use them to dazzle your friends with all the places you've visited.
"No Labor" Labor Day Menus
