Before having kids, my partner and I lived for Fridays, when we would meet our close friends for beers, cocktails and good conversation at the local watering hole. Three years and two kids later, our Fridays are mostly spent at home, inviting friends over for dinner and drinks. So, now that we have graduated from frequenting bars to having friends over for drinks, we decided to set up a home bar. And guess what? It was easier than we imagined. If you want to set up your own bar but are not sure where to begin, we are here to help.

While it may seem difficult if not impossible to recreate the ambience of an actual bar, you can create a cosy drinking corner in your home. Invest in some basic equipment, stock up on essential liquors, know the right techniques and bingo! Your dream home bar is now a reality.

Home Bar Equipment Essentials

A Dedicated Space

First, decide where to set up your counter. You can go all the way and invest in a proper bar top and bar stools, but any raised surface with enough space will do. While a classic bar cart looks great and makes an ideal dedicated space for drink mixing, an unused kitchen countertop or narrow bookshelf can be equally functional and attractive. Having a designated area keep you organized and makes your home bar look professional.

Quality Glassware

What’s a bar without proper glassware? The right glasses make the difference between a standard bar counter and an impressive one. You need to stock up on three basic types of glasses: martini glasses, tumblers and stemmed glasses for both red and white wine. Once you have the basics, you can invest in others. For example, if you are a fan of sparkling wine and champagne cocktails, go for flute glasses that take up less surface area and prevent bubbles from disappearing too quickly. You can also invest in margarita glasses which generally have a larger bowl and fully conical base.

Basic Alcohols

Start by stocking the bare essentials, including:

• Cognac
• White Rum
• Gin
• Bourbon
• Vodka
• Tequila
• Whiskey

You can also experiment with flavoured liquors like frozen cherry brandy and coconut flavoured vodka (which tastes excellent with pineapple juice). Get creative with different combinations of liquors and mixers. Covering the basics will help you do that.

Mixers and Garnishes

If you want to experiment with different cocktail recipes, here’s a list of mixers and garnishes to stock up on.

Water: It’s said that water opens up the flavours of Scotch. So, keep some bottled water in your bar counter.

Cola: Works great for rum and whiskey cocktails. For the best flavour, mix drinks with swizzle sticks.

Tonic and/or Club Soda: Mostly used for gin and vodka drinks, these enhance the taste of a margarita as well. 

Sweet and Sour Mix:  From margaritas and whiskey sours to classic Tom Collins, many cocktail recipes call for both a sweet and sour taste.

You can experiment with a range of garnishes. Stock up on plenty of fresh fruits including lemons, limes, cherries, oranges, pineapples and strawberries. Other interesting garnishes include gummy bears, dried fruits, shaved chocolate, whipped cream, iced flower cubes and candied citrus peels. Personally, I love roasted marshmallows and edible flowers; they look great and taste amazing.

Some other important tools

• Ice bucket or bag
• Bar spoon
• Muddler
• Jigger
• Cocktail shaker
• Strainer
• Ice cube trays

While there’s nothing better than having a well-stocked home bar, you don’t always have to be prepared for a party of eight. Just stock up on the essentials and a few of your favourite alcohols. Never be afraid to start off small. Soon, you will be on your way to becoming your friends’ favourite at-home bartender.