Bar Accessories Make Bartending Easier

It’s hard to envision working as a bartender and not having access to certain bar supplies. The occupation would be drastically different. If you have access to the accessories, you not only can provide better service, but you can maximise your profits. You simply cannot operate without such items as thimble measures, disposable straws, optics, ice buckets, cocktail stirrers and napkins. These same supplies also are important accessories if you cater events.

The Cocktail Shaker

Every occupation has its basic tools of the trade. Bartending is no exception to the rule. Thankfully, the implements that are required do not cause a bartender too much difficulty in figuring out how they are used. One of the most important tools used is the cocktail shaker. You simply cannot be a bartender and go without this implement. The design features a closed container that prepares the liquids and ice that are used for mixing drinks.

Of the bar accessories that are featured, two main kinds of shakers are used. The Boston shaker is made up of two parts. It consists of a mixing glass and a cover made of stainless steel. When it is used, the ingredients for the drink are placed in the glass portion of the tool before being covered. The drink is shaken using an up-and-down movement, with the support of each hand – one at the top and the other at the bottom. This shaker is often preferred by professional bartenders.

The standard shaker is the second tool used for mixing cocktails. This particular implement consists of three parts, all made of stainless steel. It is made up of a container, strainer and cover. The container, where the ingredients and ice are placed, looks similar to a tall steel glass. The second part, or the strainer, fits over the container snugly like a cap.

The slotted opening on the strainer assists the bartender in straining drinks. The cover is merely a plug for the hole in the strainer. Use is the same as it is for the Boston shaker. However, the cover is taken off and the drink is strained. Therefore, a separate strainer is not needed, as is the case for the Boston shaker.

A Mixing Glass

A mixing glass is another essential bar accessory. This glass is used for stirring drinks, not shaking them. It usually is used with a strainer. Measuring devices used by bartenders indicate how much of a drink’s ingredients are being used. There are various types of measuring devices with almost identical uses.

One of the measuring devices is a measuring spoon, which looks very much like a kitchen measuring spoon. Plastic spouts that fit over ends of liquor bottles are also used. These items permit a steady and measurable pour whilst preventing spills and drips.

Other accessories include the wine opener, bar spoon, ice bucket, scoop and pitcher, including the various glassware that is required for making drinks. All are essential in the bartending trade.