Sure, great spirits and fresh citrus are essential when crafting an excellent cocktail. But don’t discredit bar tools as a crucial part of the cocktail equation. A good shaker, bar spoon, jigger and strainer will make stirring and shaking up a cocktail a breeze.
Though it might seem more convenient to buy all-inclusive bar-tool sets, the majority tend to be cheaply made or designed more for their looks than for functionality. You’ll get better value and quality for your money by buying individual tools, because no manufacturer makes the best in every category. This guide provides recommendations for anyone who wants to outfit a stylish and functional bar at home, with options for every skill level.
Essential bar tools
1. Jigger
2. Citrus press
3. Pen and paper
4. Hand towel
5. Muddler
6. Wine opener
7. Shaker
8. Bar spoon
9. Hawthorne strainer
10. Blender
11. Brûlée torch
12. Knife
13. Spirit pourer
14. Coravin
15. Large-format ice
Here are their top picks for the best bar tools to seek out right now.
Best Overall: Cocktail Kingdom Essentials Kit
Best Juicer: Sunkist J-1 Commercial Citrus Juicer
Best Jigger: HIC Stainless Steel Japanese Jigger
Best Strainer: Cocktail Kingdom Koriko Hawthorne Strainer
Best Shaker: Cocktail Kingdom Koriko Weighted Shaking Tins
Best Mixing Glass: Mofado Crystal Cocktail Mixing Glass
Best Muddlers: Fletchers Mill Muddler
Best Peeler: Kuhn Rikon Original Swiss Peeler 3-Pack
Best Bottles: Crew Supply Co.
Lifevips.com carry plenty of Cocktail Shakers and Cocktail Smoker for your favorite cocktails and mixed drinks. We offer the best brands in the industry for tonic waters, club sodas and ginger beer. If you’re feeling sober curious then check out our speciality cocktail ingredients, non-alcoholic mixers and cocktail shrubs for enjoying tasty drinks without the hangover.