Grown-Up Bar Cart Must-Haves
So you’ve officially entered the world of grown-up hosting, and your bar cart is about to get an upgrade. Gone are the days of throwing together whatever you can find in your kitchen; now it’s all about style, sophistication, and actually knowing what you’re doing. Here’s my list of essentials that will take your bar cart from basic to next-level fab.
1. The Tools – Obvi, You Need These 🍸
First things first, you need tools. And not just any tools—cute ones. Because why settle for anything less than matching, stylish bar tools? I’m obsessed with this Harrison Classic Metal Bar Tool Set from Pottery Barn (I’ve got the silver set—can’t go wrong with shiny). Trust me, a good jigger is non-negotiable. Just make sure you actually read the measurements so you don’t end up like me, accidentally getting everyone drunk off one drink (see: Hostess Confessions). No one needs that kind of chaos again.
2. Bar Towels – Because Spills Happen 🍹
You’re making cocktails, which means, inevitably, things will get messy. Bar towels are your unsung heroes. Any kind will do, but I like to keep it cute. Anthropology has some adorable ones, but for me, Williams Sonoma is the go-to for quality, soft towels that can handle a spill or two. Bonus: They’re chic enough to double as a cute accessory for your bar cart.
3. Classic Cocktail Glassware – Timeless, Not Trendy 🥂
Okay, listen—while I do love a funky, unique glass, nothing beats the classic cocktail glass. Whether it's a martini, coupe, or rocks glass, you can’t go wrong with a timeless set. My pick? Williams Sonoma again (yeah, I may be biased since I used to work there). But if you're looking for other options, CB2 has some great, modern designs, and even Amazon has some solid choices. Here’s my tip: Buy glasses for what you actually drink. If you’re not a champagne person, don’t buy a 6-piece set that’ll collect dust in your cabinet. Be real with yourself.
4. Cocktail Garnishes – The Secret to Looking Like You’ve Got It Together 🍊
Nothing elevates a cocktail like a well-chosen garnish. Fresh citrus and herbs are classics, but I’m all about the pretty garnishes. Think: dehydrated lemon, blood orange, or grapefruit wheels. They add instant sophistication and require minimal effort. For that extra flair, put them on a cute cocktail pick—like these from Crate and Barrel. They’re just fancy enough to make you look like a pro, but still easy enough that no one needs to know how little effort it took. Pro tip: switch them up seasonally for added flair.
Bonus Tip: Remember, the goal of your bar cart isn’t just to make drinks—it’s to make your guests feel like they’re getting something special. So, keep it cute, keep it classic, and most importantly—keep it functional. Cheers to your grown-up bar cart dreams! 🥂