The key functions of bar counters include providing storage and functionality to bar servers. Bar or food service counters at restaurants, pubs or cafes need the following components:
Storage Cabinets
Different types of drinks have different set of needs. Beers and cold drinks need refrigeration. Wine needs different temperate and needs to be stored sideways.
The quantity of beverage you need to stores for quick access will drive the decision on the size or number of fridges you need. Which, in turn, will help figure out storage space required for it.
Consider if you may be better served with all the items stored in one location, or if you’d prefer to arrange a “long-term” storage spot separate from the main bar.
Temperature-controlled wine coolers come at a variety of sizes and price points. This is also true for beverage fridges for beers, sodas and cold drinks.
There are also many solutions for horizontal wine storage including standard cabinets that can be included in a custom bar solution.
Alternatively, if you have a large collection of spirits to showcase then open shelving mounted over a distinctive backsplash is a great statement maker.
Display Shelves or Rail Racks for Barware
One of the most aesthetically pleasing components of a bar is the sparkling glassware that comes with it. With specific glasses and mugs made for variety of drinks, your barware collection can rival your beverage collection.
It is better to store glassware and china at your bar counter itself rather than the kitchen so they can be accessed on the fly for serving drinks efficiently.
When it comes to storing these, there are a few options:
– Glass cabinets with interior lighting adds shine to glassware.
– Or, if you have stemware, consider bar counter racks that allow glasses to hang upside down for serving wine efficiently and provides a clean, industrial look.
Waste Disposal
Waste storage and disposal is an essential component of any bar counter. You will need to decide the size and location of waste receptacle(s) based on the seating capacity and whether the counter is a managed-service front counter or a food & bar service counter.
Construction Tip #: Countertops with waste holes increase functionality of kitchen or bar counters since scraps can be quickly swiped into the hole for efficient waste disposal helping cooks / bartenders avoid walking over to trash can at regular intervals. A 6-inch diameter hole is sufficient for most use cases however the ideal size can vary based on design and layout. A stainless-steel bin or compost holes can be incorporated into the waste hole that lifts out for emptying or cleaning. Trash holes can have lids if required.
Other Essential Fit-Outs
You will also need to assess if the bar counter needs to be outfitted for dishwasher &/or a warming drawer, microwave and a full-sized fridge or two?
Share and discuss these essential requirements with your restaurant bar counter manufacturer / supplier.
Finalizing these must-haves will help nail down the number of cabinets, their dimension, and other specs. These, in turn, will enable the bar counter supplier to share more accurate quotes with you.