Evaluating A Cocktail Bar

(Credit: Matti Blume/Wikimedia Commons — CC by-SA 4.0)

There is no arguing that cocktails are unique. For starters, there are so many varieties of cocktails that one only needs to search to find something that pleases their taste buds. Cocktails are a great accompaniment when hanging out with friends or family and having a good time. But have you ever wondered how to pick out a great cocktail bar? This article will help you explore key factors to consider when evaluating a cocktail bar for the best experience.

What To Check For In Evaluating A Cocktail Bar

1.  The vibe check

This is one of those things with no quantifiable measurement, but you have to ask yourself what vibe you’re going for with the cocktail bar. Every bar projects its own vibe, and it depends on a couple of factors, such as the decor they chose, the placement, i.e., indoor vs. outdoor, the music playing, and even how the booths are organized. Do your research and match what you find out against your needs. Don’t be downtrodden if you have to try out a few cocktail bars before finding the right one.

2.  Attentive service

Customer service is another intangible aspect of a business that can make or break it. Find out what other people’s experience is with the bar staff. They don’t have to remember the names of every single client they have ever served, but are they courteous, prompt in their service, and professional in their delivery? Attentive service can be the difference between wanting to go home and get away from the bar and extending your stay because everything flowed smoothly.

3.  Convenient location

It goes without saying, but we’ll say it anyway. You don’t need to travel long distances to get to a cocktail bar unless you want to or have no other options. Check within your area to find a cocktail bar that is conveniently placed. The you headed to the bar may not mind, but after a fun night out, the you leaving the bar would definitely not want to have an hour commute back home so that they can slide into bed and get some well-deserved zzzs.

4.  Competitive price

The price of the cocktails is another serious consideration when choosing a cocktail bar. This is not so much about finding cheap cocktails but about finding reasonably priced cocktails based on the ingredients in question. Fair pricing means that the cocktail bar sources for good quality ingredients but also that the cocktails are reasonably priced. To meet this demand, some cocktail bars choose to have a revolving menu where their drinks are made available depending on the ingredients in season.

However, if the institution chooses to price their products or source their products, take some time to compare their prices with other establishments, taking into account the quality to find the best cocktail bar for you. For those who appreciate added perks, consider keeping an eye out for exclusive opportunities, such as Fair Go bonus codes, which can unlock special offers and discounts—perhaps extending the enjoyment beyond the cocktail experience.

5.  Mixology

A great cocktail is often not an accident. A great cocktail bar understands this, so they often employ a mixologist to craft their cocktails for them. Mixology is both an art and a science. A good mixologist understands that various flavors and ingredients intermingle differently, so they prepare their cocktails with this information in mind. This is the science of mixology. The art is how they mix up the cocktail for you and the flair with which they present the final product.

You should definitely opt for a bar with a mixologist who understands all this if you want to have a memorable and exceptional drinking experience. Also, consider if the mixologist offers unique cocktails and if they are known for creating new cocktails and experimenting with ingredients.

6.  Visit during happy hour

If you have a couple of cocktail bar options to explore and need help deciding which one to pick, the next best step is to visit them during happy hour. You know, that magical time of the day when establishments choose to reward you for your hard day at work by offering you a place to recharge and have discounted drinks and specials. Okay, maybe that’s not why they do it, but life is all about perspective, right?

By visiting cocktail bars during happy hour, you get to sample their drinks menu at a discounted price. This means you get to test out their cocktails, the vibe, the customer service, and even see the mixologist work their magic all within a budget. It may differ from when their services are back to normal, especially if the bar is packed during happy hour, but it is a great way to get your feet wet proverbially in that cocktail bar. Don’t forget to check out their menu while you’re there so you can prepare your friends about what to expect if you choose to come with them in the future.

In Conclusion

Maybe you’re lucky and found a great cocktail bar by accident. But are you sure it is the best one around? By sifting through the available establishments and ‘judging’ them against these and other characteristics, you may be surprised to find an even better establishment. And I don’t know about you, but I think it’s even better if you have a few great places to recommend to your friends. Anyway, good luck and happy hunting!