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A well-stocked bartender kit can include up to 13 essential tools. Let's dive into what exactly goes into this kit and why each tool is a must-have for creating perfect cocktails.
Here are 13 essential bar tools to include in your bartender kit:
There are two main types of cocktail shakers: the Boston shaker and the Cobbler shaker. The Boston shaker consists of two parts – a metal tin and a mixing glass – while the Cobbler shaker is a three-piece tool with a built-in strainer and a cap.
The Boston shaker is preferred by professionals since it’s more versatile and allows for a more vigorous shake. The Cobbler shaker, on the other hand, is easier to use for beginners since it comes with a built-in strainer, but it can sometimes leak and doesn’t offer as tight a seal.
A mixing glass isn’t just any glass—it’s usually made of thick, durable glass that can withstand a lot of stirring without breaking or cracking. The most common type is the Yarai mixing glass. It includes a cut-glass design that provides a better grip when you’re mixing. These glasses are great for cocktails that need to be stirred rather than shaken, like a classic martini or a Manhattan.
Bartenders typically use three types of strainers: Hawthorne strainers, fine mesh strainers, and Boston strainers. Hawthorne strainers have a flat metal head with a spring coil. They're used to keep ice and other solids out of your final drink. When using one, make sure to slightly tilt it to control the flow of your pour.
For an even smoother cocktail, you can use a fine mesh strainer. It’s ideal for catching tiny bits of ice, fruit pulp, or herbs. Lastly, you'll need to use a Boston cocktail strainer or a julep strainer. It's shaped like a large spoon with perforations and is often used for stirred drinks poured from a mixing glass. It’s great for providing a quick strain while still allowing smaller ingredients through.
A jigger is a small, double-sided measuring tool. It comes in different styles, like the standard double-sided jigger and the Japanese jigger, which has a taller, slimmer design. The Japanese version is popular among bartenders since its shape allows for a more precise pour and a comfortable grip.
Bar spoons have a long twisted handle to help stir drinks in tall glasses or shakers without bruising the ingredients. You can also use it for layering drinks like classic pousse-cafés. The flat end is perfect for cracking ice cubes as well.
The muddler is like a pestle used to crush or muddle ingredients, like fresh herbs, fruits, or sugar, at the bottom of a glass. This process releases essential oils and juices that add intense flavor to your drink. When using this tool, make sure to avoid over-muddling! Crushing herbs like mint too much can release bitter chlorophyll. Instead, gently press and twist to get the perfect balance of flavor.
Fresh juice adds a type of flavor that bottled juice just can’t match. These juicers come in different sizes. Some are designed specifically for smaller fruits like limes, while others can handle bigger fruits like oranges and grapefruits.
Ice tongs are designed to grip ice cubes and transfer them smoothly from ice bucket to glass without any spills. They’re also perfect for handling larger ice cubes or spheres that are becoming trendy in cocktail making. When using tongs, try to avoid holding the ice too long. Even a little extra contact can start the melting process.
A good bottle opener isn’t just for popping the tops off beer bottles; some come with additional features like a corkscrew or wine key for opening wine bottles or a built-in knife for slicing through foil. Make sure the opener you choose has a comfortable grip.
If you want to look more professional, having a variety of cocktail glasses is a great start. Here are a few types you should definitely consider adding to your collection:
Get a sharp, high-quality chef knife for cutting garnishes like herbs and fruits, and for prepping ingredients that go into your drinks. It’s also a good idea to have a small, serrated knife on hand. This type is especially useful for slicing fruits with tougher skins, like oranges or pineapples. Get a paring knife, too for more delicate tasks, like peeling or trimming small fruits and vegetables. Whatever knife you choose, make sure it has a comfortable, non-slip handle.
You'll need something to chop fruits, herbs, and any other cocktail ingredients. Ideally, you want one that is sturdy, easy to clean, and non-slip to prevent accidents. Go for a wooden version since they're gentler on your knife. Plastic cutting boards are also good since they’re easier to clean. Choose a medium-sized board.
Speed pourers are the little spouts you see on top of bottles in every bar. They help control the flow of liquid from a bottle. They’re especially useful when you’re working with multiple bottles or multiple cocktails. There are two types of pourers: some have finer spouts for better control, which are great for syrups and liqueurs. Others have wider spouts for a quicker pour that are perfect for spirits like vodka or gin.
Putting together a great bartending kit is all about having the right tools. From shakers and strainers to jiggers and glassware, each tool helps you make delicious drinks at home. Choose quality tools that are easy to use and match your needs.
Want to up your cocktail game? Try the Pepe Nero Bartending Kit! It has all the tools you need to prepare drinks, like a shaker, jigger, and more, all in a stylish set. Perfect for beginners and pros alike. Shop with us today.
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