We’ve developed a list of essentials that will elevate your at-home drinks to bar-level quality. After all, it’s the details that make the difference. Making budget-friendly investments in the proper tools will go a long way in your simple home bar. The lists below contain affiliate links, which will help us earn & keep the site going.

Bar Essentials

• A sealable cocktail shaker for less mess
• A quality-made 24 oz. mixing glass
• A spiraled 12-inch mixing spoon (or 2)
• A glass-friendly, food-safe muddler
• A strainer that fits almost any shaker or mixer
• A high-quality fruit peeler
• A double-sided jigger
• Silicone 2-inch ice molds with lids

Or, you can get it all at once with a full cocktail set (like this one), which includes almost all of the above + many Extra Credit Recommendations. They make great housewarming gifts too!

Extra Credit Recommendations

• Clear Ice Mold
• Garnish Picks
• Ice Mallet & Bag (essential for tiki lovers)
• Wine Filters
• Cocktail Smoker Kit

Glassware

• Lowball aka Tumbler aka Rocks
• Highball
• Wine (works for all types)
• Martini
• Coupe
• Nick & Nora