Photography: Alana Landsberry
What is the point of a bar cart? Providing a drink station serves a dual purpose: it’s another styling opportunity, plus it takes the pressure off the host as guests can easily serve themselves. Arrange everything on a drinks trolley, a small table or even the end of the kitchen island with all the necessary fixings.
“It’s the one time of year I bring out the spirits!” says Imogene Abady of Abady Creative. But don’t forget alcohol-free options too, as some guests will be driving. A pre-mixed mocktail in a carafe can be a visual delight. And orange juice is a must for Christmas-morning mimosas.
Now that we’ve established that you will absolutely benefit from having a bar cart, here are some essentials to get for it.
How do you make a good bar cart?
1. Bases and mixers
First, stock your bar cart with a selection of base spirits so you can make just about any cocktail. Think gin, white rum, vodka, bourbon, tequila and brandy. Next, add in mixers that complement your base spirits, like dry vermouth, sweet vermouth, Cointreau and bitters.
2. Glasses
To cover all cocktails, you will need short glasses, tall glasses, coupes (for cocktails and sparkly wines) and wine glasses. Head to Myer for a comprehensive collection of all styles.
3. Tray
A stylish tray not only serves a decorative purpose for anchoring your disparate barware elements, it also functions as a protective layer for your bar cart surface. You can load it up with drinks then perch it on a sideboard or console.
4. Ice bucket
An essential component is an ice bucket, which is perfect for keeping chilled wine at the right temperature. A sleek stainless steel look complements a wide array of bar cart styles.
5. Tools
Bar cart tools are fun to use and can easily make you feel like a pro cocktail maker. You’ll need a cocktail shaker, strainer, jigger, corkscrew and bar spoon. Curate your tools individually (styles range from simple to luxe) or invest in a complete set that will also come in handy if you have a home bar.
6. Fancy accessories
What’s a cocktail without a fancy straw or pick? Get a selection of cocktail picks or garnish picks which are great for spearing fruits like cherries or lime pieces to garnish your cocktail.
Shop the best bar carts
01
Seville Rattan & Bamboo Tea Cart, Temple & Webster
$349
This dark rattan beauty is a statement piece.
02
Shoko Bar Cart, Freedom
$2199
This is a chic, contemporary option if you like to keep it modern.
03
Sienna Bamboo Trolley, Temple & Webster
$399.95
This light bamboo bar cart is compact and easy to move around.
04
Bellwood Bar Serving Cart in White/Natural, Myer
$449.95
Lightweight and smooth to move, this will suit any style home.
05
Kian Bar Cart, Freedom
$419
With strong lines in striking black, it’s simple and timeless.
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