How To Stock Your Bar At Home–We Ask An Expert
We've come a long way since our days of cheap vodka in the freezer. But knowing exactly what to have on-hand in your proper, grown-up bar can get a little confusing. We want to mix up the best for our guests (and ourselves!), so we've asked local bartender Revae Schneider to show us the ropes by letting us tag along on a boozy shopping trip. If you like what Revae's pouring out, visit her at River North's post-work mecca, Union Sushi & BBQ, and bring friends. We tagged along with Revae as she honed in on bar essentials at Binny's Beverage Depot (where the real pros go). Here, she's filling us in on all the must-haves and don't-you-dares that go along with the very best liquid entertaining. Stalk our stock-up, then prepare to humbly accept the title of Best Hostess Ever. Cheers to you!
What do you love about your work, specifically in Chicago?
"I love being able to create a drink that makes people smile and think, “Woah, that’s awesome!” Chicago’s palettes seem to more adventurous which makes it more fun for me to play with cool ingredients!"
What are your must-have bar tools for anyone stocking their bar?
"A hawthorn strainer, a jigger, and a shaker are the three most necessary items for your home bar to create a balanced drink. A hand citrus press, julep strainer, a muddler, a bar spoon, and a pint glass for stirring come next. Things like a Y peeler, a channel knife, a cherry pitter, and a church key, are all great things to have but not always necessary."
What basic glassware do you recommend?
"I think everyone needs to have: a) a good rocks glass for scotches, whiskeys, and bourbons served either neat or on the rocks, b) a Collins glass for mixed drinks that would be served over ice. c) a cocktail or martini glass for drinks served Up and d) my personal favorite, the coupe glass, it’s a fun way to serve a cocktail and can also double for a champagne glass without having to use the traditional flute."
What do you love about your work, specifically in Chicago?
"I love being able to create a drink that makes people smile and think, “Woah, that’s awesome!” Chicago’s palettes seem to more adventurous which makes it more fun for me to play with cool ingredients!"
What are your must-have bar tools for anyone stocking their bar?
"A hawthorn strainer, a jigger, and a shaker are the three most necessary items for your home bar to create a balanced drink. A hand citrus press, julep strainer, a muddler, a bar spoon, and a pint glass for stirring come next. Things like a Y peeler, a channel knife, a cherry pitter, and a church key, are all great things to have but not always necessary."
What basic glassware do you recommend?
"I think everyone needs to have: a) a good rocks glass for scotches, whiskeys, and bourbons served either neat or on the rocks, b) a Collins glass for mixed drinks that would be served over ice. c) a cocktail or martini glass for drinks served Up and d) my personal favorite, the coupe glass, it’s a fun way to serve a cocktail and can also double for a champagne glass without having to use the traditional flute."
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