In professional bartending, quality bar supplies play a crucial role. They are indispensable tools of a bartender, allowing them to create flawless drinks, unique in taste and appearance. The efficiency of work behind the bar, the general atmosphere of the establishment, and its professional image depend on the choice of inventory.
Basic bar tools
Behind a professional bar, a bartender requires a vast arsenal of various tools and supplies.
Shakers
Shaker — one of the main attributes of the bartender. It is used for shaking ingredients and preparing a variety of cocktails. There are several basic types of shakers:
- Tin-on-tin. This classic two-piece stainless steel shaker consists of two parts: a glass and a cap. Thanks to the sealed connection of the parts, you can shake the contents vigorously.
- Boston shaker. A glass beaker with a metal cap. The glass allows the shaking process to be monitored. The cap is often notched for a firm grip.
- French shaker. All-metal design consisting of cylindrical parts. The ergonomic shape simplifies the shaking technique.
Following proper technique when shaking, holding the shaker firmly but without undue strain is essential. A quality shaker should be balanced, withstand vigorous shaking, and not leak.
Strainers and mixing spoons
Strainers (filters) are essential for gently straining drinks after shaking. A distinction is made:
- Strainer julienne — a flat filter with holes fixed on a shaker or glass.
- Streiner hawks — a filter with a compact bowl that collects ice. Used with a tin shaker.
- Mixing-glass filter — suitable for mixing ingredients directly in the glass by straining through the built-in filter.
Special spoons are used for slow rotary mixing. They have a long handle and an oval bowl for dipping into the glass. Professional mixologists prefer thick metal or glass spoons that hold cold well.
Muddlers and ice pushers
In addition to the essential tools in the bartender’s arsenal, there are other necessary accessories for the preparation of cocktails:
- A muddler is essential for stirring and crushing ingredients such as fruit, spices, or sugar. It is a thick stick with a soft end.
- Ice Pusher is a rod with a spatula at the end. It is used to stir and break the ice in the glass to form the desired consistency.
These small but useful tools help the bartender achieve the perfect consistency and texture of drinks, giving them the final touches before serving.
Meters and funnels
Proper proportions of ingredients are critical to the perfect flavor of a cocktail. Standard measuring containers and dispensers with different volumes are used for precise dosing. And funnels allow you to pour liquids to avoid spills carefully.
Bar Knives
A fundamental tool for slicing citrus fruits, bartenders worldwide use sharp knives to remove thin zest or cut slices to garnish drinks. Bar knives feature a narrow, long blade sharpened for fruit handling and an all-metal construction for stability while slicing. The intricate cutting of zest and slices gives the drink a distinctive flavor and appearance. It is important to keep knives sharp and safe, sharpen them properly, and store them. Used with professional skill, they turn the preparation of a drink into a true art.
Choosing quality accessories
When choosing barware, you should be guided by several critical criteria and go to a trusted commercial barware supplier specializing in professional bar equipment. They guarantee high-quality materials, compliance with standards, and a wide range of products.
Material
Most professional accessories are made of high-quality stainless steel — a robust and durable material resistant to corrosion and aggressive environments. Copper, pewter, and even natural wood are also used to make glasses and stands. When choosing knives, you should favor high-carbon stainless steel, which keeps the blade sharp for a long time.
Design and ergonomics
Professional bar equipment should thoughtfully combine functionality and aesthetics. Tools should fit comfortably in the hand and have the right balance and weight for comfortable work. Ergonomic design allows the bartender to focus on the process of preparing cocktails.
Reviews of professionals
Before making a choice, it is worth studying the experience of famous bartenders and sommeliers. Their recommendations will allow you to choose the accessories models optimally suited for specific tasks and work processes.
Care and Storage
To prolong the life of bar equipment, it is necessary to properly care for it and create conditions for its careful storage.
Washing and cleaning
After use, all accessories should be washed thoroughly with material-safe detergents. Do not use abrasive sponges and powders that may scratch the surfaces. Shakers, cocktail glasses, and containers should be washed by hand, removing residual ingredients. Special brushes can be used to clean hard-to-reach areas. Knives should be washed separately, avoiding immersion of the entire handle in water. After drying, lubricate the blade with a small amount of vegetable oil. Metal objects can be disinfected using unique solutions for dishes in bars and restaurants.
Storage conditions
Bar equipment should be stored in a clean, dry place. It is optimal to allocate a separate shelf or cabinet for this, protected from dust and moisture. Knives are stored in unique stands or covers to avoid damage. It is necessary to protect the blades from contact with other objects. Glass objects such as wine glasses and bottles must be stored separately in a safe place to prevent falls.
Prevention of wear and tear and breakage
Timely prevention extends the life of accessories. To do this:
- Wipe metal surfaces with protective oils after use, preventing oxidation.
- Regularly check and sharpen knife blades with unique stones or sharpening systems.
- Use soft stands for bar tools to prevent scratches and dents when dropped.
- Avoid sharp blows and intense pressure on fragile parts.
- Replace worn or damaged parts before the tool fails.
Professional care will prolong the performance of the bar equipment, keeping its appearance attractive.
Conclusion
Bar supplies are indispensable tools for a professional bartender. Quality equipment allows you to create flawless drinks, demonstrating skill and virtuoso technique.
Experienced bartenders know how to choose the right accessories that will last a long time and provide maximum comfort at work. When selecting, using the materials, design, and ergonomic expert feedback experts is necessary. Proper care with regular cleaning, careful storage, and preventive maintenance will extend the life of your bar equipment.
In the modern world, drinks have become a real art, where every element matters. After all, by creating each glass, the bartender presents the guest with a cocktail and all but embodied skill, style, and professionalism. And quality bar accessories become indispensable helpers in this case.