How Bars Are Set Up

Your bar is normally broken down into three sections:

1. The first is your "TOP BAR". The front top portion of the bar is known as the "counter". The back portion of the counter is known as the "rack" or "rail". All drinks are mixed in the rack or rail then served to the customer. Mixing on the rail displays a touch of showmanship while allowing the customer the opportunity to view proper measurements and ingredients.

2. The Second is your "UNDER BAR". The under bar is located behind the bar and contains your sinks, drainboards, ice bins, and other necessary equipment to properly prepare your drinks. This is were your most frequently poured liquors are stored in areas known as the "speed rack" and the "house well". The major percentage of all your drinks will be made in the areas of the bar.

3. The third is your "BACK BAR". The back bar accommodates your glassware and stock reserve. If your place of employment does not have a "speed rack" or "house well" section, the house liquors are usually stored in the upper and lower portion of the back bar. The back bar items are grouped together according to name brands such as scotch, Rye, Bourbon, Vodka, Gin, Rum, Brandy, Tequila, and Cordials.

Speed Rack
Vodka
Gin
Rum
Tequila
Triple Sec
Blended Whiskey
Scotch Whiskey
Bourbon Whiskey
Brandy (optional)

"Call" Speed Rack
Absolute - Stoli
Tanqueray - Beefeater
Bacardi - Captain - Malibu
Jose Cuervo - Patron
Dewers - Cutty - J&B
Johnny Walker - Chivas
Jack Daniels - Jim Beam
VO - CC - Seagrams 7
Kahlua - Amaretto - SoCo
Rose's Lime - Grenadine (optional)

Ice Bin/Cold Well
Sweet & Sour
Orange Juice
Cranberry Juice
Grapefruit Juice
Pineapple Juice
Cream/milk
Pina Colada Mix
Bloody Mary Mix