As far as we’re concerned, every season is entertaining season. So this is as good a time as any to put together a guide complete with all the tips and tricks you’ll need to create your own bar—including suggestions for signature cocktails. Forget going out; you’ll never want to leave your dreamy little watering hole again.
The Bar
The size of your space dictates the type of bar you can have. If you are living in an apartment, a bar cart might be best. It brings an air of Old World glamour to any room while being extremely functional. If you have a little more space to move around, try a bar cabinet. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorites below.
- A Naturalist’s bar cart: Since the Naturalist is all about organic materials, the Edith Bar Cart is a perfect match. It looks right at home in either a boho Los Angeles pad or poolside in Palm Beach.
- A Curator’s bar cart: The golden frame and mirrors shelves of the Larisa Bar Cart offer timeless glamour.
- A New Traditionalist’s bar cart:With a twisted ropelike framework and a luxe gold finish, the Hyannis Bar Cart is a throwback to a bygone elegance.
- An Eclectic’s bar cabinet: The statement-making Cameroon Bar Cabinet is right at home in an Eclectic’s abode. Its fanciful, colorful wood design will transport onlookers to an island far, far away.
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Tools of the trade. Photo courtesy of Ralph Lauren Home.
The Tools
No bar is complete without a proper set of tools, and we aren’t talking about a bottle of tequila. No, these are the items used by trusted bartenders to make everything from elaborate craft cocktails to a simple gin and tonic. With these tools by your side, you’ll always be ready for an impromptu gathering.
- The shaker: If you have only one tool, this should be it. The shaker can make everything from a martini to an Americano.
- The jigger: This handy tool helps quickly measure the right amount of liquid needed for your drink. Jiggers come in a variety of sizes and can even be double-ended, with two cups, for maximum use.
- The strainer: If a shaker doesn’t appeal, you can get a similar effect with a strainer. When affixed to the top of a glass, this flat piece of metal takes your drink-pouring abilities to the next level.
- The cocktail spoon: Longer and slimmer than your regular spoon, the cocktail spoon is the secret weapon in a bartender’s tool kit.
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The Drinks
Once you have your bar and tools, it’s time to get down to business. We checked our archives for a few favorite cocktail recipes.
- For holiday cheer: Try the Bourbon Apple Cider Cocktail. All this simple cocktail needs is bourbon, apple cider, and a dash of bitters. Check out the recipe here →
- For a spring in your step: Try the Mango Mojito. Justina Blakeney shared this recipe with us a few years ago, and we haven’t forgotten it. It’s perfect for those months when you are wishing for warmer weather but know it could snow again any minute. Check out the recipe here →
- For a resort-inspired sip: Try the Frozen Pineapple Margarita. This delicious sweet treat will whisk you away to paradise with a single sip. Check out the recipe here →
- For end-of-summer sweetness: Try the Peach Pomegranate Tea Cocktail. This is one of those drinks that makes the transition to autumn a little bit easier. It also makes a great mocktail! Check out the recipe here →
The Bourbon Apple Cider Cocktail
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