Anyone contemplating the operation of a bar or pub will need more than basic restaurant equipment and supplies. In addition to the standard restaurant supplies such as ovens, stoves, and refrigerators, specific supplies designed for bar use will be necessary. Blenders and bar glass washers are just a few of the essentials. The following restaurant equipment supplies should be included on the checklist, and here are the features to look for:
1. A Commercial Bar Blender
This equipment is essential for mixing bar favorites such as daiquiris and frozen margaritas. Unlike your typical home blender for mixing light beverages and smoothies, a commercial bar-quality blender should have the horsepower to perform the most demanding tasks with ease. For good performance, look for a model with a two-speed motor (high and low switch). The motor should operate with minimal noise.
A large capacity unbreakable container is a must as well. For convenience, you should also insist on a bar blender that uses stackable containers. Most importantly, be sure the containers are dishwasher safe.
A bar blender with programmable features is another feature to look for. With this option, you can set a timer and speed that is right for the specific drink you are mixing. In a busy restaurant/bar environment, setting a timer for 30 seconds is more convenient than watching the clock.
2. A Commercial Bar Glass Washer
In a busy bar kitchen, cleaning all the glasses by hand is more than tedious, as it will slow down operations considerably. For this reason, you'll need to invest in a commercial bar glass washer. Decide whether you would prefer an upright manually operated model or an electric powered glass washer.
Upright manual glass washers are typically less expensive than the electric powered ones and may only be equipped with a few brushes for cleaning and sterilizing. These are generally mounted to the sink or affixed to a counter top with suction cup "feet" and will be utilized by hand with a few steps. It's a good choice for hand washing delicate glassware. The electric models are quite efficient and will do the work for you. These may not be suitable for the more "breakable" and delicate glasses, however.
3. A Commercial Back Bar Cooler
What is a back bar cooler? Simply put, this is a refrigeration unit kept in the back of the bar, used for keeping cans and bottles of beer and other ready-to-drink beverages chilled. In your restaurant bar or pub, a beverage cooler will be indispensable.
A unit with a see-through swing glass door will keep your beverages easy to view and sort, as well as making them easy to access. Depending upon your needs and the volume of patrons in your business, choose from a two- or three-door cooler. A galvanized steel top with a protective zinc coating will help resist corrosion.
4. A Condiment Holder or Garnish Tray
This bar supply is also indispensable, as it will hold your condiments and drink garnishes neatly and accessibly. Look for a holder made of acrylic, steel, or glass with several compartments for holding lemons, olives, and condiments. A separate ice compartment at the bottom of the tray will keep everything chilled and fresh.
5. An Overhead Glass Rack Hanger
These are often utilized in restaurants and bars. With hanging hardware, the rack will hang from the ceiling and hold your glassware in several slots. This frees up your counter space, yet makes it easy to access the glasses as needed. You'll find aesthetically pleasing racks made with walnut or other wood finish to match your bar decor. Be sure the slots are wide enough to accommodate all widths of glasses.
When purchasing your bar equipment and supplies, you might buy them new or used. Buying previously owned supplies may save you money. When buying used bar supplies and equipment, check for signs of damage such as dents, scratches, or chips.