Equipment list

Our mixologists are often asked for their preference for equipment and bar tools. The tools don’t make a great bartender or mixologist, but they can help. Our staff uses tools readily available and fair priced for the average enthusiast or professional. Our Lead Mixologist has prepared the list of tools below for those interested in adding to their collection.

Note: The following items and links are unaffiliated with Empire Mixology and are not endorsed or sponsored content.

libbey glassware

Glassware is glassware. I prefer using plain, undecorated glasses. For me the focus is on the drink not the serving glass. Libbey glassware is durable and relatively imperfection free. At a fair price point I typically stock my own bar with it.

Bullet cocktail shaker

I’m not typically too attached to shakers, but I’ve owned this specific one for a long time. It’s a vintage style shaker that cannot be used with a pint glass. It’s decorative, a conversation starter, and does its job well.

Boston Shaker

The Boston Shaker is more traditional and often more preferred in a typical bar setting. Shakers are nice but Boston Shakers are typically quicker to use if multiple tins are around. This combo comes with a mixing glass, tin, and strainer.

Shaker tins

It’s standard equipment for any bartender. A good set of shaking and mixing tins are a fairly essential tool. Typically these tins take a fair amount of abuse, so its not worth going for something too expensive.

Ninja nutri Bowl duo

Ninja quality and longevity is definitely an industry standard. It blends, smoothies, purees; exactly what you need it to do. If you have a small personal bar I would recommend it.

Hamilton beach Blender

Ninjas are nice, but if you need a workhorse then this is perfect. The size is great for multiple cocktails and it’s very simple and reliable. Typically half the price of a Ninja, its value is worth it.

Bar Pour Bottles

These aren’t totally necessary in a bar situation, but they do keep a more professional appearance. Color coded and the ability to seal tight for storage, they help organize a back bar.

Bottle Pourers

Bottle pourers are more important than you think. So much alcohol is wasted each year because of leaky spouts. I personally use and highly recommend the Pure Pour. It fits almost all bottles and creates a perfect seal.

ceramic peeler

I prefer ceramic because it doesn’t rust. This peeler is lightweight and cuts well. I wouldn’t invest heavily but get something that peels well. I also recommend ceramic for knives as well.

OXO Zester

This zester has been perfect in my opinion. I’ve been using it for a while and I love the ergonomic handle and how well it cuts. It’s inexpensive and does a great job.

Strainer

You don’t realize you need it until you really need it. They’re cheap and plentiful to buy. I’d keep a few handy just in cade.

muddler

A muddler is pretty important. A lot of key cocktails like the Mojito and Old Fashiioned depend on this tool. Solid wood is a good option, I prefer the more modern model above.