Washington County Weekend Post e-edition
Issue link: http://www.ifoldsflip.com/i/1302577
GMTODAY.COM SUNDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2020 • WASHINGTON COUNTY POST • 3A Many people enjoy open- ing their homes to friends or family. In fact, according to the National Eating Trends survey and custom research by the NPD group, in 2016 the average person ate 38 meals at other people's homes. Knowing how to cook, set the mood and entertain is increasingly important for many homeowners. Installing and outfitting a home bar can provide guests with the features of a night out, only without the crowds or bar tabs that come at the end of the night. A home bar is a place where hosts and their guests can gather and enjoy great conversation. Such a spot also can serve as a neighborhood hangout — a smart choice for those who want to indulge safely and not have to drive home after- ward. Creating a home bar need not be a difficult project. By investing in basic equip- ment, stocking up on pre- ferred liquors and gaining some mixology expertise, hosts can impress and enter- tain their guests. Establish a bar setup Home bars can range from rolling carts to built-in wet bars to a single tray of items. Space in a home will dictate the kind of bar home- owners can have. Rolling bar carts are popular and versa- tile, and they can be kept sta- tionary or rolled in and out of a room as needed. If a bar cart is open, organization is key, as you don't want it to look unkempt. A full-blown wet bar will require more construction, including plumbing and elec- tricity if you need outlets for plugging in appliances. Wet bars are ideal in dens, reno- vated garages and finished basements. Stock up on equipment A new home bar requires barware and glassware. Various drinks are best served in requisite glass- ware and prepared with the right equipment. A home bar will benefit from a muddler, jigger, cocktail shaker, strainer, ice cube trays, and bar spoon. Glassware can include short glasses, tall glasses and wine glasses with stems. Martini glasses provide a chic look and are practical for those who pre- fer cosmopolitans and marti- nis. Fill it with spirits No bar is complete with- out alcohol and mixers. Homeowners can buy the types of spirits they love and complete their bars with the basics for mixing. When stocking a bar, keep in mind that everything does not have to be top-shelf. Vodka, gin, tequila, rum, and whiskey are some of the more popular spirits. Simple syrup, fresh fruit, club soda, cola, and bitters are exam- ples of versatile mixers. Entertaining guru Martha Stewart says to have enough supplies on hand for guests. Expect each person to have three drinks (requiring three glasses), use a pound of ice, and three cocktail nap- kins per two-hour party. Don't forget to also have non- alcoholic items on hand for those who don't imbibe. How to build your home bar