10 Essential Bar Tools

Here are some of my favorite bar tools and core essentials, tried and tested in real bars over the years. These bar accessories are great for home use as well as professionally behind the bar. I also share the specifics of why certain bar equipment works better for certain uses, and do some bar tool comparisons.

Jigger

You only need to find one of these to be your workhorse. Ideally one with different measurement markings.
My favorite: Double Jigger by OXO
Japanese-style by Cocktail Kingdom

Shaking Tin

There are two common shaker styles, I prefer the boston shaker version
My go-to large shaking tin by Cocktail Kingdom
My go-to small cheater tin by Cocktail Kingdom

Strainer

I typically use two strainers, an open gate strainer and a fine mesh strainer in tandem for a quick clean pour.
Hawthorne strainer by OXO
Hawthorne strainer by Cocktail Kingdom: https://amzn.to/36smrY7
Fine mesh strainer by RSVP: https://amzn.to/3mitomO

Mixing glass

A pint glass works fine but once you use a mixing glass you will never want to go back.
My favorite mixing glass by Mofado: https://amzn.to/3qoVgai

Barspoon

Great for floating and measuring small amounts but you are looking for something that mixes smoothly.
My got to is the Hoffman barspoon by Cocktail Kingdom: https://amzn.to/3wkkDhg

Knife

I prefer the serrated version of the knife for citrus rinds etc.
Serrated utility knife by Cuisinart: https://amzn.to/3qg8nsB
Straight paring knife Victorinox: https://amzn.to/3ln3wSM

Wine Key

Look for something solid here, the less points of weakness the better.
Single hinged wine key by True: https://amzn.to/39tNMex
Double hinged wine key by True: https://amzn.to/3mtKlrS

Juicer

Make sure it's solidly built and keep it clean!
Hand juicer by Rasse: https://amzn.to/3ioOwFe

Muddler

I like the rubber ends or a material that will be unlikely to break glass.

Muddler by Barvivo:https://amzn.to/2VqXZjr

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