Setting Up a New Bar: An Equipment Checklist
Opening a new bar involves more equipment decisions than most first-time owners expect, from underbar refrigeration to glassware storage and draft systems. Missing a key piece during planning often means an expensive last-minute purchase once the bar is already open. This checklist covers the core equipment categories to plan for before opening day.
Core Bar Equipment
Every bar needs a foundation of underbar coolers, ice bins, speed rails, and a functioning drainage system before it can serve its first drink. Build your equipment list around your actual drink menu, since a cocktail-forward bar has different needs than one focused primarily on beer and wine.
- Underbar refrigeration and ice bins
- Speed rails and bottle storage
- Glassware storage and drying racks
- Drainage and waste disposal setup
Draft and Dispensing Systems
If your bar will serve draft beer, plan the keg cooler, tap tower, and line cleaning equipment early, since draft systems often require specific plumbing and electrical work that’s much easier to handle before opening than after.
Point-of-Sale and Service Equipment
Don’t overlook service-side equipment: a functioning POS system, garnish stations, and enough smallwares like shakers, jiggers, and strainers to support your expected volume without staff constantly running short mid-shift.
New Bar Equipment Checklist
| Category | Key Items |
|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Underbar coolers, ice bins, keg coolers |
| Dispensing | Draft towers, speed rails, soda guns |
| Storage | Glassware racks, bottle storage |
| Service | POS system, smallwares, garnish stations |
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the most commonly forgotten bar equipment item?
Adequate glassware storage and drying rack space is one of the most frequently underestimated needs when planning a new bar.
Do I need different equipment for a cocktail bar versus a beer bar?
Yes, a cocktail-forward bar needs more speed rail and mixing equipment, while a beer-focused bar needs more draft and keg cooler capacity.
How early should draft system plumbing be planned?
As early as possible, since draft systems often require dedicated plumbing and electrical work that’s far more difficult to add after opening.
Can used bar equipment work for a new bar opening?
Yes, underbar coolers, ice bins, and speed rails are all strong candidates for used equipment purchases, since they see heavy daily use but hold up well when maintained.