Expert Bartenders Share Their Favorite Tools of the Trade

As a bartender, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference in creating the perfect cocktail. Essential tools include a shaker, jigger, bar spoon, strainer, and citrus juicer. Each tool serves a specific purpose, from measuring precise amounts of alcohol to ensuring a smooth pour.
Expert bartenders also have their go-to tools, such as a Japanese jigger or a fine-mesh strainer. Their recommendations bring years of experience and expertise to the table, and are worth considering when building your own kit.
Innovative tools like a smoking gun or a carbonation cap may not be as widely used but can add unique flavors and textures to cocktails that customers will love. Investing in these tools can elevate your bartending game and set you apart from the competition.
Having the right tools is essential for any bartender looking to create a memorable experience for their customers. Whether you stick with the basics or branch out into the innovative, having a well-stocked toolkit will help you create delicious cocktails every time.




Essential Tools:

1. Shaker: A shaker is one of the most important tools for any bartender. It is used to mix cocktail ingredients together quickly and efficiently, creating a smooth and consistent drink every time. There are two main types of shakers: the Boston shaker and the Cobbler shaker. The Boston shaker consists of two parts - a metal tin and a mixing glass - while the Cobbler shaker has three parts - a metal tin, a strainer, and a cap. Both types of shakers work well, so it comes down to personal preference.

2. Jigger: A jigger is a small measuring cup used to measure out precise amounts of alcohol and other ingredients. This is an essential tool in creating balanced cocktails that taste great. There are many different sizes of jiggers available, but a standard shot glass can also be used as a makeshift jigger in a pinch.

3. Mixing spoon: A mixing spoon is used to stir cocktails gently, ensuring that all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the drink. A long-handled spoon with a twisted stem is ideal for this job, as it can reach all the way to the bottom of the glass without getting in the way.

4. Strainer: A strainer is used to remove ice and other large particles from a cocktail when pouring it into a glass. There are several types of strainers available, including the Hawthorne strainer (which fits inside a shaker), the Julep strainer (which fits over the top of a mixing glass), and the fine mesh strainer (which removes even the smallest particles from the drink).

5. Muddler: A muddler is a tool used to crush fruits, herbs, and other ingredients in the bottom of a glass or shaker. This releases the flavors and juices of the ingredients, infusing them into the cocktail. A wooden muddler is preferred over a metal one, as it is less likely to damage delicate ingredients.

Expert Recommendations:

To help you navigate the world of bartender tools, we gathered recommendations from expert bartenders on their favorite tools. Each of these bartenders has years of experience in the industry and has honed their craft using the best equipment available.

First up is Mike Ryan, the director of bars for Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants. Ryan recommends the Koriko Shaker Tin Set, which he describes as "the gold standard for shaker tins." Made from high-quality stainless steel, this set includes both a large and small shaker tin, perfect for shaking up classic cocktails or experimenting with new recipes.

Next, we have Tiffanie Barriere, a James Beard-nominated mixologist based in Atlanta. Barriere recommends the Usagi Yojimbo Jigger, which she calls "a must-have for any professional bartender." This Japanese-made jigger features precise measurements and a sleek design that fits comfortably in your hand.

Another expert recommendation comes from Theo Lieberman, co-owner of New York City's award-winning bar, Lantern's Keep. Lieberman swears by the OXO Steel Cocktail Strainer, which he says "fits perfectly on any mixing glass and catches every last bit of ice and herb debris." This strainer's double-spring design ensures a tight seal while allowing for easy pouring.

Finally, we have Ivy Mix, owner of Brooklyn's Leyenda and author of "Spirits of Latin America." Mix recommends the Cocktail Kingdom Teardrop Barspoon, which she calls "a workhorse in any bar." This spoon features a teardrop-shaped head that allows for easy stirring and layering of ingredients.

Innovative Tools:

One such tool is the muddler. Muddlers are traditionally used to mash fruits or herbs in the bottom of a glass, releasing their flavors and aromas into a cocktail. However, newer models also come with a serrated edge, allowing them to be used for cutting and slicing ingredients as well. By using a muddler, a bartender can quickly and easily create fresh, flavorful cocktails that leave a lasting impression on their customers.

Another innovative tool that has gained popularity in recent years is the smoking gun. This tool allows bartenders to infuse cocktails with smoky flavors without actually lighting anything on fire. The smoking gun uses wood chips to create a smoky atmosphere inside a glass or carafe filled with a cocktail. The result is a drink that not only tastes amazing but also smells incredible.

A third tool that has been making waves in the bartending industry is the sous vide machine. Originally developed for cooking, sous vide machines have found a new home behind many bars. These machines allow bartenders to create perfectly infused syrups and spirits by placing them in vacuum-sealed bags and cooking them at a low temperature over an extended period of time. The result is a concentrated flavor and aroma that can then be added to cocktails to create a truly unique experience for customers.

So, why should bartenders invest in these innovative tools? For one, they allow bartenders to create drinks that are unique and memorable. By incorporating new flavors and techniques into their cocktails, bartenders can set themselves apart from their competition and attract new customers. Additionally, using these tools can be an excellent marketing strategy. When customers see a bartender using a smoking gun or sous vide machine, they're likely to take notice and ask questions about what the bartender is doing.

In conclusion, innovative tools like muddlers, smoking guns, and sous vide machines can greatly enhance the overall experience for both bartenders and customers. By investing in these tools, bartenders can create unique and memorable drinks that set them apart from their competition. So, whether you're a professional bartender or a home mixologist, consider adding these tools to your kit to take your cocktails to the next level.

FAQ

Q1. What are some of the must-have tools for a professional bartender?

Professional bartenders have a variety of tools at their disposal, but some of the most essential include a shaker, jigger, strainer, bar spoon, and citrus press. A sturdy cutting board and sharp knife are also important for preparing garnishes and other ingredients. Other tools that can come in handy include a muddler, ice scoop, and bottle opener.

Q2. How important is quality when it comes to bar tools?

Quality is crucial when it comes to bar tools. High-quality tools not only last longer, but they also perform better and can help improve the overall quality of your drinks. Cheap, poorly made tools can be frustrating to work with and can negatively impact the taste and presentation of your cocktails.

Q3. Can you recommend any specific brands or models of bar tools?

There are many great brands and models of bar tools available, and the right choice will depend on your personal preferences and needs. Some popular choices include OXO, Cocktail Kingdom, and Koriko for shakers and strainers, and HIC for citrus presses. Japanese-style jiggers, such as those from Yukiwa or Timbuktu, are also highly regarded by many bartenders.

Q4. How can I learn more about using and choosing bar tools?

There are plenty of resources available online and in print for learning about bartending tools and techniques. Many bartending schools and courses offer instruction on the proper use and care of tools. Books such as "The Bar Book" by Jeffrey Morgenthaler and "Liquid Intelligence" by Dave Arnold are also excellent resources for aspiring bartenders looking to up their game. Additionally, attending industry events and workshops can provide valuable opportunities to learn from experienced bartenders and try out different tools firsthand.


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