Christmas is just around the corner. If you’re struggling to find the perfect present for the bartender in your life, you’re not alone. However, what do you get for someone who has mastered the art of giving? Therefore, think beyond generic home bar gifts like a bottle of liquor. Instead, consider what they love when they’re off the clock. Additionally, most bartenders are passionate about their craft, and this passion often follows them home. Consequently, this year, skip the generic gift cards. Instead, dive into the world of thoughtful presents for bartenders, as they will appreciate and use these gifts. To make it even easier, we’ve broken down the best bartender gifts into two categories: gifts for their professional life and well-being, as well as home bar accessories.
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Category 1: Gifts for the Home Bar Enthusiast
This is where you can truly shine. Gifting home bar accessories shows you support their passion and see them as more than just their job title. These are the gifts that let bartenders explore, experiment, and relax.
1. The Foundational Tools: Upgrading the Essentials
Every home bar needs a solid foundation. While they probably have the basics, an upgraded version is always welcome.
Complete Home Bar Set: If you bartender buddy is just starting out their own home bar, why not gift them the essentials with this complete bartending kit and cocktail set. https://amzn.to/3WdNIGI
Jigger Upgrade: If a home bar is already established then this 10 in 1 Jigger makes a great presents for bartenders. A precision jigger with multiple measurement lines is a game-changer for crafting perfect cocktails at home. This one from Flow Barware has a sleek design and easy to read measurement lines.
Whiskey Glass Gift Set: Everyone knows a whiskey lover or two, why not show them your love with this beautiful gift set. Featuring cooling cubes so that you have complete temperature control and no dilution.
The Whole Home Bar: If you are for whatever reason super rich, or just really like your bartender, why not get them the whole home bar cart – they would owe you free drinks for life for one of these bad boys so you could consider it an investment opportunity.
2. The “Now We’re Getting Fancy” Gear
These home bar accessories elevate a casual hobby into a serious craft.
Lewis Bag & Mallet: For the bartender who loves their juleps and swizzles, this classic combo lets them crush ice properly without using a blender. This is a staple for any established home bar. https://amzn.to/4nUFoaW
Aging Kits: Small barrels or aging kits for spirits and cocktails are an incredibly cool gift that keeps on giving, allowing them to create their own unique infused liquors. This 3-liter barrel is the perfect size for home use; due to its small size the oak will affect the alcohol much quicker than a commercial one. It is also a good idea to read up on cooperage or ‘barrel owning’ before you get started!!
Smoking Gun: For adding a dramatic, aromatic touch to cocktails with smoke from woods like applewood or hickory. This one doesn’t use any butane and is rechargeable, so it is perfect for any bartender or home bar enthusiast no matter their skill level.
High-Quality Bitters: This taster set of 5 bitters are great bartender gifts. Ideal for home bar use this set will take your home bar to the next level instantly. A great way to add some depth to drinks at home.
Specialty Glassware: These speak for themselves! Imagine serving up Espresso Martinis at home in one of these for girls’ night. I hope you’re ready to take your hosting skills to the next level!
Category 2: Gifts for Their Well-Being & Style
Bartending is a physically demanding job. Gifts that show you care about their comfort and recovery are always a hit.
Premium Bar Mat: As a bartender, our legs hurt all the time! And we know you still want us to make you a drink when we get home from a long day, so make their life a little easier with this anti-fatigue mat. A comfortable, anti-fatigue mat for their home bar can make a world of difference during long cocktail sessions with friends.
Good quality hand cream: A good-quality hand balm or cuticle oil is a lifesaver for hands that are constantly exposed to citrus juice and washing. This twin pack from O’Keeffe’s looks after sore hands and feet together!
Stylish Apron: A well-fitting, comfortable bartender apron for home use is a great present for bartenders. Keeping clothes clean while making drinks at home. These make the perfect present for bartenders.
Compression Socks: Bartending is physically demanding constant standing, walking, and pivoting behind the bar can lead to:
- Swollen ankles and feet
- Fatigue and soreness
- Varicose veins or circulation issues over time
Compression socks help by applying graduated pressure, strongest at the ankle and decreasing up the leg. This promotes blood flow back to the heart and prevents fluid buildup in the lower limbs
Category 3: Gifts for the Professional Bartender
Good Quality Waiters Friend: A high-quality Waiter’s Friend is one of those deceptively simple tools that bartenders, sommeliers, and wine lovers swear by, and for good reason. It’s not just a corkscrew; it’s a multitasking tool that blends form, function, and finesse.
The Curious Bartender: I read this book a few years ago and it has some really cool out of the box ideas. perfect for a bartender that may be suffering with some creative block.
Cocktail Recipe Book: A good notebook is always handy behind the bar, and this one has been specifically designed with bartenders in mind. With premade pages where you can write your recipes and a personalised index this book it great for those who like to create their own cocktails. This is also one of those great bartender gifts for home
What to Avoid: A Quick Tip
Generally, it’s best to avoid giving them basic liquors. Their palate is likely very specific (and a bit obnoxious), and it’s a difficult choice to get right. Instead, focus on the tools and accessories that enhance the spirits they already love.
Thats a Wrap
Finding the perfect Christmas gifts for a bartender is all about acknowledging their skill and passion. By choosing one of these thoughtful bartender gifts from home bar accessories or for their well-being, you’re giving them something more valuable than an object, you’re giving them a tool for their creativity, a moment of comfort, or a way to further enjoy the craft they love, even when they’re the one being served.
