Underbar workstations are the modular building blocks behind a busy bar — combining ice bins, speed rails, drainboards, and sinks into a compact, efficient workflow for bartenders during high-volume service.
What’s Included in an Underbar Setup
A typical underbar lineup includes an ice bin with cocktail rail, a bottle well or speed rail for well liquors, a glass/bar sink for rinsing, and drainboards for staging glassware. Units are modular, so operators can mix and match sections to fit their bar’s footprint.
Ice Bin and Cocktail Station Sizing
Ice bin capacity should match your bar’s peak-hour drink volume — running out of ice mid-rush is one of the fastest ways to slow down service. Insulated bins with cold plates help keep bottled beer or garnishes cold within reach.
Sink Requirements and Code Compliance
Most jurisdictions require a multi-compartment glass wash sink separate from any hand sink at the bar. Check local health code for the exact compartment count and hand-sink placement rules before finalizing your layout.
Layout and Bartender Workflow
Efficient underbar layouts minimize the steps a bartender takes between the ice bin, speed rail, and glass sink. Plan the sequence around your most common drink orders rather than defaulting to a generic template.
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Ice bin / cocktail station | Holds ice, mixers, garnishes within reach |
| Speed rail | Quick access to well liquors |
| Glass/bar sink | Rinsing and washing glassware |
| Drainboard | Staging clean or draining glassware |
- Size the ice bin to your peak-hour drink volume
- Confirm your glass sink meets local health code compartment rules
- Lay out stations around your most common drink workflow
- Choose modular sections that can be reconfigured later
What is an underbar workstation?
An underbar workstation is a modular combination of ice bins, speed rails, sinks, and drainboards installed beneath the bar top, designed to keep a bartender’s tools and ingredients within easy reach during service.
How many sink compartments does a bar need?
Requirements vary by jurisdiction, but many health codes require a 3-compartment glass wash sink plus a separate hand sink — check your local code before finalizing a layout.
How do I size an ice bin for my bar?
Base ice bin capacity on your peak-hour drink volume rather than an average night — running low on ice during a rush is one of the most common bar service bottlenecks.
Can underbar equipment be reconfigured later?
Most underbar systems are modular, so sections like ice bins, sinks, and speed rails can often be rearranged or added to as your bar’s needs change.
Build Out Your Bar
Main Auction Services carries underbar equipment and workstations for bars and restaurants.
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