Due to the popularity of shows like Mad Men and Boardwalk Empire, cocktail hour has had quite the resurgence. If you plan on hosting the perfect cocktail hour, or if you plan on inviting your date back to your place for a nightcap, you will need the perfect bar cart. An elegant bar cart is du rigueur for any modern man. Think of it as a party on wheels; you can roll your bar cart out onto your patio or rooftop deck. It will instantly up your mojo.
Before you buy, consider the following:
1. How do you plan on using the bar cart? Will it be a full bar set up or just a few of your bottle and glasses? Make sure you look for one with extra storage on the bottom and a rail that will hold everything in place.
2. Consider the style that best suits the rest of your space. What finish is best? Is it sleek chrome or more tradtional brass? Stick to classic lines and it will never go out of style.
3. How sturdy is it? This is especially important if you find a great vintage piece. Look for a sturdy frame and wheels. If you manage to find a bar cart with brakes, snatch it up, you don’t want your liquor rolling away on you.
The perfect bar cart should be perfectly styled. Here are some styling tips:
1. Add a tray to the top to keep everything organized. Divide up the cart in zones by function. I always suggest keeping the top level for bottles, tools and and don’t forget an ice bucket.
2. Pick your best glassware. Make sure you have a good selection of highball and lowball glasses. I prefer to keep my martini glasses chilled in the freezer.
3. Group your bottles by size, colour and type of alcohol, it will make it easier as you make drinks.
4. If you have the room, and plan on keeping the bar cart in one place, consider adding a stack of cocktail books at one end and top with a great lamp or vase with fresh flowers.
5. Try to keep your bar tools in the same finish as your cart – for example, consider investing in brass tools/cocktail shaker if you go for a brass finished cart.
Now that you are ready to buy, here are six of our favourite bar carts:
1. Libations Bar Cart (Crate & Barrell; $699)
This cart has a great retro feel thanks to its warm brass finish. Brass is quickly becoming the hot new finish for interiors. The simple lines keep it classic.
2. 1966 Collection Porcelain Serving Cat (Design Within Reach; $2,768)
This cart was first created for Knoll in 1966 by Richard Schultz. It was created to be used outdoors and stand up to seaspray and other elements thanks to the porcelain enamel finish.
3. Parker Mid-Century Bar Cart (West Elm; $349)
This classsic 1950s bar cart features brass accents and warm walnut wood finishes. This is a classic Mad Men choice that would fit into almost any space.
4. Gibson Bar Cart (Restoration Hardware; $1095)
This bar exudes classic 1970s glamour with its high polished chrome finish and luctie handles. The top features a removable mirroed tray and the bottom shelf is flanked by two racks to keep all your bottles organized.
5. Go-Cart Carbon Cart (CB2; $149)
Although this is not listed as a bar cart, this is a great alternative with an industrial edge. Features three shelves which means extra room for extra booze. Finished with a powder coat and locking wheels.
6. Dar Round Bar Cart (Target; $108)
If you are short on extra room but still want to have a bar cart – try a smaller round version that will easily fit into any space. This bar cart features classic styling and a great price.
