Expert Advice on Hospitality Topics

5 Exciting Bar Trends to Look Out for in 2024

Posted by John Cammalleri on Tue, Feb, 13, 2024 @ 09:02 AM

Discover the top 5 bar trends that will shape the industry in 2024 and revolutionize the way we enjoy our drinks.

Sustainable and eco-friendly practices

In 2024, one of the top trends in bars will be the adoption of sustainable and eco-friendly practices. Bars will strive to reduce their carbon footprint by implementing practices such as using biodegradable straws, composting organic waste, and sourcing locally grown produce. Customers will appreciate the efforts of bars to contribute to a healthier planet while enjoying their favorite drinks.

Another aspect of sustainable practices that will gain popularity in 2024 is the use of renewable energy sources. Bars will invest in solar panels and energy-efficient equipment to minimize their reliance on non-renewable resources. This commitment to sustainability will not only attract environmentally conscious customers but also help bars save on energy costs in the long run.

Virtual reality experiences

Another exciting trend that will dominate the bar industry in 2024 is the integration of virtual reality experiences. Bars will offer customers the opportunity to step into immersive virtual worlds while enjoying their drinks. Whether it's exploring exotic locations, participating in virtual cocktail-making classes, or engaging in interactive games, virtual reality will provide a unique and entertaining experience for bar-goers.

Virtual reality experiences will not only enhance the entertainment factor but also allow bars to differentiate themselves from competitors. Customers will be drawn to bars that offer innovative and interactive experiences, making virtual reality a must-have trend for bars in 2024.

Artisanal and locally sourced ingredients

In 2024, bars will focus on elevating the quality of their drinks by using artisanal and locally sourced ingredients. Customers will increasingly appreciate the craftsmanship and unique flavors that come with using artisanal ingredients. From small-batch spirits to handcrafted bitters and syrups, bars will showcase the best of local and regional flavors.

By sourcing ingredients locally, bars will also support local farmers and producers, contributing to the growth of the community. This trend will not only enhance the overall taste and quality of drinks but also create a stronger connection between bars and their local surroundings.

Alcohol-free and low-alcohol options

As the demand for healthier lifestyle choices continues to grow, bars in 2024 will offer a wide range of alcohol-free and low-alcohol options. Customers who prefer to avoid or reduce alcohol consumption will have plenty of choices beyond traditional mocktails. Bars will experiment with creative and sophisticated non-alcoholic beverages that are equally enjoyable and refreshing.

Low-alcohol options, such as spritzers and session beers, will also gain popularity among customers who want to enjoy a drink without the accompanying buzz. Bars will recognize the importance of catering to diverse preferences and will ensure that everyone can find a drink that suits their taste and lifestyle.

Technology integration

The integration of technology will be a key trend in bars in 2024. Bars will leverage technology to enhance the overall customer experience, streamline operations, and provide personalized recommendations. From mobile ordering and payment systems to interactive menus and self-serve stations, technology will play a significant role in transforming the way bars operate.

Customers will be able to use their smartphones to browse the menu, place orders, and even customize their drinks. Bars will also utilize data and analytics to understand customer preferences and offer personalized recommendations based on individual tastes. This seamless integration of technology will not only improve efficiency but also create a more interactive and convenient bar experience for customers.

Topics: Bar inventory, Bar trends, Classic drinks, Bar products, Beer stock, Best Bar Inventory app, Best Liquor Inventory app, Cruise ship bar inventory

Get your “Rocks " Off!! Drink Recipes

Posted by Nick Kaoukis on Tue, Mar, 29, 2011 @ 12:03 PM
e-mail: "bjbarhop@aol.com, web page  
www.BobTheBarGuy.com
phone number: (800) 447-4384

Get your “Rocks ” off with  the Black Russian, Old FashioLongIslandIceTeaned & Daiquiri 

In this part of our series on contemporary drink making, bar management expert Bob Johnson examines  some of the most popular “Collins”  glass drinks  including the Long Island Ice Tea,  the Tom Collins and everybody’s favourite hangover cure, the Bloody Mary. 

Collins” glasses are usually 12-16 ounces, and these glasses can be used for a variety of drinks.  Here are some of the more popular drinks served in a Collins glass.

Long Island Ice Tea

This drink has been a consistent big seller in the 19 to 35 age group.  It’s a “quick” drunk. 

Customers who order Long Islands need to be carefully watched.  How fast are they drinking the Ice Tea?  How long between re-orders? The traditional recipe for the Long Island Ice Tea is: 

Collins glass  filled with ice; 1/2 shot of Vodka,Gin, Rum, and Triple Sec; Sweet and Sour mix to 4/5 of the glass; add coke to the top; shake; garnish with a lemon wedge/straw.

There are many variations, including:

(1)  Use Tequila in the recipe.  Many Midwestern bartenders will tell you that a Long Island Tea with Tequila is a “Texas Tea.”

(2)  Consider using non-alcoholic Triple Sec. 

It’s cheaper ($3-4 per bottle) as compared to the Triple Sec that contains alcohol ($7-9 per bottle).  Triple Sec is nothing more than a  flavouring agent. When mixed with other liquors and ingredients, the presence of alcohol in Triple Sec is meaningless.  All we care about as mixologists is the orange flavour we get from using Triple Sec.  Triple Sec is the domestic substitute for Cointreau. 

(3)  Make an Ice Tea using Blue Curacao instead of Triple Sec; it’s now a “Blue Tea.”

(4)  Use 7-Up (not Sprite) and cranberry juice instead of Coke and it’s now a “Long Beach Tea.” Also, if you’re measuring 1/2 ounce shots, use the small side of the jigger (3/4 oz.) and pour below the top of the jigger.  Put in 1/2 shots of Vodka, Gin, Rum, Triple Sec into small side of the jigger.  Or simply have your bartenders “free pour” 1/2 ounce of liquor one at a time directly into the glass. Bartenders who pick up and pour the four bottles at the same time make the drink wrong. Usually more of one liquor comes out. Great “show,” but a lousy drink. Instead, consider premixing the four liquors into a separate container along with the sweet and sour mix if you get a lot of calls for this drink.  If you’re high volume, your bartenders could save valuable time by-passing the steps of picking up each of the four liquor bottles.  De nightly pre-mix the liquor for the service bartenders.

Next Up Vodka Collins…..

Topics: Bar drinks, Classic drinks, Drink Recipes

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