What supplies do mst bartenders bring to use on the job?

Question

To be completely prepared for the shift exactly what supplies does a bartender want to bring to the bar? So far the list is a towel, and a cutting knife. Tip jar is optional because not all bars allow or operate with tip jars out. And a vermouth sprayer is optional also. Some bars also have shakers availible but some do not.

Answer 1

The only thing that most bartenders and waiters I know carry is their own wine key (cork puller) and foil cutter. As for just about anything else, they make due with whatever the place has got. I've seen bartenders buy some supplies such as drink shakers for the bar when it didn't have them (paid for by the bar).

It's just too hard in a busy place to keep track of your own stuff.

Why the wine key? Wellllllll ....

1. They get lost or carried off easily ... so its good to always have your own in your pocket.
2. They can take some practise to use well, so best to have one that you have experience with.
3. Most importantly ... You are just flat out screeewed without one. Almost anything else can be improvised, but try getting a cork out of a bottle without one sometime!

Answer 2

what bar doesn't have a shaker? tip jars don't make much sense, people will just leave you dollars with their drinks. bring a wine key with a sharp knife, a flat bottle opener, a few pens, and some gum or mints so you have nice breath. the bar really should have towels too!!! are you the bartender or are you outfitting the whole place?