A Unique Concept or Theme:
Great bars often have a unique concept or theme that sets them apart and creates a memorable experience for customers. Whether it’s a speakeasy-style bar, a tikki bar, or a sophisticated cocktail lounge, having a distinct identity can draw in patrons looking for something special.
Excellent Customer Service:
Ideally every guest should be greeted and made to feel welcomed as they enter the restaurant. It’s difficult to engage in conversation with everyone sitting at the bar, so introduce guests to their neighbors to encourage conversation between them. Friendly, efficient table service sets a bar apart.
A good server notices that glasses are empty and remembering what the guests previously ordered asks if they’d like another. Providing exceptional customer service is essential for creating a positive experience. Great bars train their staff to be attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable making customers feel welcomed and valued.
A Comfortable and Inviting Atmosphere:
Well-designed bars improve with age, while conversely it’s telling when bars need a refit every few years. Minimalist interiors can look great but cluttered bars tend to be more homely with walls lined with pictures or objects stimulating interest, particularly for solo drinks. Great bars have a warm glow about them with no bright bare bulbs. The floor of a bar not only has to look good it must be robust enough to withstand spillage and high heels.
Well-designed, practical and well laid out bartender stations are essential. Bartenders should have everything they need within an arm’s reach without having to move. The atmosphere of a bar can make or break the experience for customers. Great bars strike a balance between being inviting and comfortable while also creating a sense of excitement and energy. Lighting, music, seating arrangements, and decor all play a role in shaping the atmosphere.
Drinks Offering and Innovative Offerings:
Truly great bars have 7 plus beers on tap and 50 by the bottle including international beers, selection should be varied, encompassing different styles not just local beers. Beers should be served in clean, suitable cold glassware – ideally specific to that beer. It’s great to see a beer menu with tasting notes and perhaps food matching recommendations.
The wine list should be well-designed with short tasting notes and food matching recommendations. Wines should be served by knowledgeable staff who can offer recommendations. Great bars offer a large choice of premium liquor brands across all categories – not just gin. To stay competitive, great bars often offer innovative and creative drink options. This could include unique cocktails, seasonal specials, or collaborations with local breweries or distilleries.
A Great Cocktail List:
Every great bar that describes itself as such should offer great tasting, well-balanced cocktails made using freshly pressed juices. Great bars should have great ice with drinks preferably served over carved ice. Cocktails should be served in clean elegant and chilled glassware. Better to make a few perfect cocktails than offer a list of 100 mostly badly made ones. Many of the world’s best bars have less than a dozen drinks on the menu.
A selection of classic and contemporary cocktails with at least one house signature cocktail. Cocktail menus should avoid mentioning “sour mix”, grenadine. Menus should only list drinks which all the bartenders are confident and proficient at making. Non-alcoholic drinks and cocktails should be available for drivers, pregnant women, children and even those simply thirsty. A great bar pays attention to the quality of its ingredients. This includes using fresh, premium ingredients for cocktails and stocking a selection of top-shelf liquors.
Skilled and Personal Bartenders:
Bartenders play a crucial role in the success of a bar. Great bars have knowledgeable and skilled bartenders who can mix excellent drinks, provide recommendations, and engage with customers in a friendly and professional manner. From the presentation of drinks to the cleanliness of the bar, attention to detail is key. Bartenders should pay close attention to all aspects of the customer experience, ensuring that everything from glassware to garnishes is top-notch.
