Are you turning a space into a new neighborhood bar? Exciting times ahead! We’re sure you’re in the throws of setting up shop and making a hundred different decisions. Do you need a kegerator? What about a wine fridge or back bar cooler? How about a commercial ice maker? While this is an exciting chapter for any business owner, we understand that things can become a little overwhelming.
One thing’s for sure, choosing the right commercial refrigeration equipment can seem like a rather daunting task. Plus, you need to think about design, efficiency, cost, and maintenance. It’s important to note that establishing a functional bar goes beyond aesthetics and creating the right ambiance. Of course, this is important, but you also need to think about how the right tools and equipment can help your bar run as smoothly as possible–in terms of functionality and productivity. Focusing on these must-have tools before the nice-to-haves is essential when setting up, especially on a budget.
Lots to think about, right? So, to help you out, we’ve put together a list of the top five pieces of equipment to kit out your new bar. Each of the five suggestions can help create a functional and productive space–setting your bar up for success right from the start! Below, we’ll cover everything you need, from back bar coolers and kegerators to wine fridges and ice makers. Let’s dive in!
Top 5 Pieces of Equipment to Kit Out Your New Bar
1. Commercial Back Bar Cooler
A commercial back bar cooler (or bar cooler) is your go-to chiller to display, chill, and enable convenient access to drinks. The transparent display glass can help make your stock look more extensive while creating a modern look and feel. Beyond these features, commercial back bar coolers also offer functionality.
A bar cooler allows your customers to see what’s on offer and provides bartenders and staff with easy access to displayed drinks. The display, ease, and overall appearance can help contribute to sales and efficiency as a business.
Durability and maintenance are also key factors to consider when maximizing the benefits of a commercial back bar cooler. Quality bar coolers will ensure you get the best value for your money as they can withstand the rigor of commercial use to provide years and years of use.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to opt for commercial back bar coolers that are easy to maintain and keep clean. It’s also best to go for scratch-resistant, so it looks pristine for years, despite the frequency of usage.
2. Commercial Refrigerator
Next on the list of important items for your new bar is a commercial refrigerator. Commercial refrigerators not only provide a space to keep your drinks cool, but you can also place any garnishes such as fruit, herbs and edible florals in your commercial fridge– keeping produce fresher for longer.
Serving food or bar snacks at your establishment? Then a commercial refrigerator is a must-have. Depending on the space available in your kitchen and your budget, there are a variety of different sizes and models to choose from. Again, you’ll want to look for a model that’s known for durability and can withstand heavy use over many years.
3. Kegerators
Kegerators are another efficient option to chill and dispense drinks at your bar. They can be used to store and serve all types of drinks on tap, including cider, wine, sparkling water, or even coffee.
Kegerators are also a great option to help maximize space. They can be conveniently stored under or on counters or in a cupboard, storeroom or walk-in freezer until you need them.
Additionally, storing beverages at the appropriate temperature in a kegerator will help maintain their freshness, enabling you to establish a consistent taste over time. Did you know, some larger commercial refrigerators have enough space to hold several half-barrel kegs with extra space for additional items?
4. Commercial Ice Makers
If you’re serving drinks, you’ll need lots of ice on-hand all the time. Enter the commercial ice maker! An extremely handy piece of kitchen equipment to have, a commercial ice maker is designed to produce a large amount of ice both quickly and efficiently.
With a commercial ice maker, you’ll be able to meet all your ice needs and never run out. With a simple touch of a button, many commercial ice makers also allow you to adjust the ice’s thickness and shape, creating the perfect type of ice for your customer’s needs.
5. Wine Fridges
Wine lovers will know that temperature is vital when it comes to serving wines. So if you need to chill Chardonnay or cool down some Sauvignon Blanc, a wine fridge is a great way to do this. Not only do they look beautiful, but they will keep wine bottles at the correct temperature and keep your customers oh-so-happy.
Like regular fridges, wine fridges come in a variety of sizes to suit your space and budget. Sleek and sophisticated, a wine fridge will only add to your bar’s overall look and feel. Did you know some wine fridges have special amber glass doors to help prevent UV damage to wine? Sold!
So there you have it, the ultimate, must-have equipment for your new bar. Remember, take your time when it comes to choosing your equipment. While you may be in a hurry to check things off the list, it’s so important to choose the best high-quality commercial equipment for your space’s specific needs.
Contact Us Today
So, as you can see, setting up a bar requires equipping it with practical tools to enhance operations and help you make the most of your investment. Still not sure what you should get and how it will benefit your new space? Feel free to contact one of our friendly customer service agents, and we will be happy to talk you through any questions you may have.
With clients all over the country, Iron Mountain Refrigeration Equipment has developed a reputation for excellent service and as a top supplier of high-quality commercial refrigeration equipment. Contact us today or complete this form, and we’ll help you find the equipment you need.
Need a few tips to prepare your restaurant or bar for winter? Click here.