There are many ingredients that ensure a smooth running bar or restaurant; each ingredient playing its own intrinsic part. Regardless of the alcohol and necessary tools arguably the most important item you will invest in is your glassware. It is mainly thought that a glass is simply a glass however when that glass will depict the quality of your business and will hold your profits, more thought into the perfect styles that will suit the drinks that you serve is required. Before even looking at the quantities you will need to purchase you must first understand the different types of glassware and how each will fit into your bar or restaurant.
Beverage glasses; these are generally considered to be an all purpose glass that can hold numerous different drinks. They are available in varying shapes, sizes and capacities so are a main feature of many restaurants and bars.
Water glasses; when people go out to a bar or a restaurant they will probably be indulging in an alcoholic drink, a cocktail or a juice. Only occasionally will people require a glass of water. The all purpose beverage glasses can be used to fulfil the requests for water however if you feel that your business will benefit from purchasing specific water glasses you will find that they will generally be smaller than other glasses and will hold anywhere between 5 and 14 ounces of water.
Juice glasses; these glasses are usually smaller than normal beverage glasses due to the acidity of the contents; not many people will request a pint of pure fruit juice. They are mainly used for businesses that serve juice with breakfast or lunch and so are not really seen in the average bar. If you have juice glasses in stock these can also be used as an alternative to water glasses.
Beer glasses; these glasses are used for serving lagers and ciders etc. that tend to have more carbonation than traditional ales. Variations to the standard shape are available however the base will always be narrower than the top. The majority of beer glasses will have an integrated widget at the bottom of the glass; basically a white area of dots that cause a texture within the glass. This feature allows the ‘fizz’ to last longer and creates a good head on the beer. These glasses are also available in half pint sizes.
Ales glasses, mugs and Steins; when serving bitters or ales you can choose a variety of glasses. A basic ale glass may look like a beer glass but minus the widget and may be slightly different in shape to allow the hops to circulate more and to allow easier recognition for staff serving behind a busy bar. A tankard or a traditional German Stein will generally be heavier and will typically have a handle. Each type of glass is just as effective as each other so whichever you purchase will be decided by personal preference in relation to the theme of your bar or restaurant. Ale glasses are also available in half pint sizes.
Shot and shooter glasses; these small glasses are used to hold one single type of spirit and are the exact legal measurement to allow the easy pouring of a single shot in a busy bar. Shot glasses and shooter glasses will have a thick reinforced bottom to withstand the slamming of the glass after the shot has been downed. Shooter glasses will generally be taller than a shot glass as they are designed to contain two or maybe three different complimenting beverages.
Brandy glasses; easily recognisable by the short stem coupled with the wide rotund bowl. These glasses are capable of holding far more liquid than the standard brandy measurement. The glass should be filled approximately a third of the way up allowing the brandy to breath and the aromas and flavours to circulate.
Hurricane glasses; the shape of these glasses lends itself to fruity cocktails and other concoctions. The stem is short and the glass tall and resembles the shape of an old fashioned hurricane lamp.
Martini glasses; the classic Martini glass exudes elegance and is reminiscent of the old Hollywood movies. The bowl is triangular and can be used to serve Manhattans and cosmopolitans as well as the traditional Martini.
Margarita glasses; the bowl is usually large and may incorporate a smaller bowl beneath the larger bowl simply for decorative effect. The wide rim allows easy coating in salt, sugar or any other ingredients that will complement the drink.
Rocks glasses; these wide and straight tumblers are perfect for serving drinks with ice.
Coffee glasses; designed with a small stem, a long body and a handle these glasses can be used to serve warm or iced beverages. These coffee glasses are typically used to serve Irish coffees in restaurants.
Red wine glasses; these glasses have a larger rim to allow the drinker to really appreciate the aroma of the wine whist they are sipping.
White wine glasses; the rim is smaller than on a red wine glass and the bowl narrower. The long stem keeps the wine cooler as the drinker can hold the stem when they sip instead of holding the bowl and warming the wine with their hands.
Champagne glasses; these glasses have a fluted appearance with a tall narrow bowl. The small rim ensures that the ‘fizz’ can’t escape easily and prevents the champagne from becoming flat.
Wine goblets; this shape of glassware can be used to hold a variety of drinks such as wine, sherry, water and other beverages. Goblets tend to be smaller than average wine glasses and have a shorter stem.
Now that you have a basic understanding of the common styles of glasses you should begin to have an idea of what items would fit into your business and be suitable for your requirements.
Cafes
A significant proportion of a café’s profits are made through the sales of beverages. Not everyone will stop for a bite to eat, but many will call in to rest and have a drink whilst they are out shopping or simply meeting up with friends for a social catch up over a cup of tea or coffee. With the constant flow of custom it is vital that as a café you can meet the demands. Ensuring that you have ample quantities of glassware and mugs will guarantee you are ready for anything. During busy periods the last thing you need is to be worrying about washing glasses and cup's therefore being prepared is vital to a smooth operation. Cafes and bistros will not require the level of variety of glassware as in a bar or a restaurant however equipping your business with the basics will profit your café in the future.
Items to consider;
Beverage glasses provide an ideal versatility and are suitable for many cold drinks. Stocking a range of sizes will cover the service needs of the majority of your beverage menu.
Water glasses are smaller than your average beverage glass and also provide an excellent sized container for serving juices. The smaller capacity means that there will be less wastage therefore saving you and your business money.
Coffee glasses offer a way to serve coffee with extra style and elegance. This glassware provides a decorative aspect that cannot be achieved with the average mug. Your lattes, cappuccinos and mochas will never have looked so enticing.
Wine glasses will be required if your café holds a licence to serve alcohol. Deciding on the quantities that you need, will depend on the size of your café and the level of custom you receive on average.
A café that serves casual breakfasts, lunches and dinners and has approximately 100 seats will usually require around 12 dozen juice glasses and 24 dozen water glasses. If you decide that the same glass can serve both beverages then 36 dozen glasses of your preferred style should be sufficient. Around 12 dozen 12 ounce beverage glasses should also be purchased to serve milk, squash and soft drinks etc.
A café that serves casual lunches and dinners and that holds a licence to serve alcohol may require the following amounts calculated on a space that can seat approximately 100 guests. The same amount of glassware as stated previously along with 12 dozen coffee glasses and 12 dozen wine glasses or goblets to serve both red and white wines.
Casual restaurants
The glassware which you choose for your restaurant will ultimately be dependent on the types of drinks that you sell. As a restaurant you will need to stock more styles of glassware than a café or a bistro as the choice of drinks available will generally be greater.
Items to consider;
Water glasses should be set out at each place setting. Some customers may request a jug of water with their meals and as a supplement to their main drink. If you do not feel that water glasses are essential in your restaurant then you can choose any type of glass that will be apt for the theme and style of your restaurant.
Beverage glasses are a vital product in a restaurant as their versatility means that you can serve almost any beverage in them. This means that you can cut down on other glassware styles.
Coffee glasses add a touch of class to the evening and can be used to serve either the average coffee or an Irish coffee at the end of a meal. The ability of these glasses to dress up and average cup of coffee will inject a professional aspect to your business.
Wine glasses are an essential item as the majority of customers will enjoy a wine of their choice with their meal. Having a selection of red and white wine glasses will cater to either of your guest’s preference.
Champagne glasses or flutes are always recommended as one of the main choices of ways to celebrate a special occasion is by going out for a meal and making a toast with a glass of bubbly.
Top Tips
- If you offer speciality cocktails make sure that you stock the appropriate glassware
- When you think you have the right quantity of glassware, order another dozen or two to be kept in storage. Glassware is obviously breakable and accidents can and will happen. Whether it is a smash, a chip or a crack you should be in a position to replace glasses immediately
- Have enough glassware to eliminate the need to take glasses directly from the glass wash to be placed on to the tables. The heat retained in the glass itself will affect the drink that is poured, and the temperature shock placed on a hot glass from the cold drink will cause potential cracks
The quantities that your restaurant will require will be dependent on the volume of business you receive and the amount of guests that your restaurant can seat. It is not often that a restaurant will be full to capacity each and every night but regardless of this, it is this situation that you should plan and be prepared for. It is better to have spare glassware than be under prepared and not have the facilities to serve all of your guests.
Casual restaurants that can seat approximately 100 guests can generally follow these guidelines. 12 dozen beer glasses and 12 dozen half pint glasses along with 12 dozen ale glasses should be stocked. Half pint glasses can be used for either beers or ales. 12 dozen beverage glasses will cater for the service of a variety of drinks. 24 dozen water glasses should be ample for a restaurant of this size. 12 dozen champagne flutes will accommodate those who wish to celebrate a special occasion. Red and white wine glasses or goblets should be plentiful as the delicate frame makes them easy to crack; 12 dozen should be an appropriate amount. If cocktails are on the menu then select which styles are suited to your drinks and stock around 9 dozen of each.
Bars
The glassware usage of a bar far exceeds that of cafes and restaurants with the customers expecting a fresh glass for each drink that they purchase. The range of drinks available will also be greater than that of other businesses.
Items to consider;
Beer and ale glassware are vital as these are typically the main drinks that you will serve whether this be pints or half pints. Many bars now invest in a glass chiller. This piece of equipment chills the glasses to an appropriate temperature before the drink is poured ensuring that the best quality beverage possible is presented to the customer.
Shot and shooter glasses are another essential bar item. When people visit a bar they may decide that a shot of the strong stuff is just what they need to start off their night or finish it off. Make sure that you can accommodate their requests.
Brandy and rocks glasses should always be stocked behind your bar. People who drink brandy will not only enjoy the taste and the warmth but also will understand that the best way to savour these characteristics is when the brandy is served in the proper glass. Customers who require ice with their spirits and perhaps a small mixer will appreciate being served their order in the appropriate glass.
Wine glasses will be used in vast quantities. They should be available in either small or large sizes; the suitable shape for red and white wines should be observed. When customers frequent a bar that sells alcohol for profits they expect to be served with the proper style of glass for their order. Champagne flutes are always a useful style of glassware to stock in case any of your customers decide that a celebration is in order.
All purpose glassware will provide a degree of versatility behind your bar. Not all of your customers will be drinking alcohol so ensure that you can cater for those who order soft drinks and tonics.
Cocktail glasses may be necessary if you have these drinks on your beverage menu. You must be able to serve your cocktails in the most appropriate and flattering glassware. The shapes and styles which you choose will be personal to your bar, whether they are chosen to compliment the cocktail or selected to compliment your theme and décor.
The quantities of glassware for a bar is a difficult area to advise guidelines for. Unlike a café or restaurant that can only seat a specific number of guests, bars will generally have full seating areas with all standing space taken as well. When ordering your glassware you will need to consider how busy your bar gets and then double the stock you use it to guarantee you will have the appropriate quantities.
The durability of the glassware which you purchase whether for cafes, restaurants or bars is a factor that is just as important as the functionality of the pieces. Although you need glassware that is not only suitable, looks good, sends out the perfect image about your business and enhances the beverages that you are serving, but you also need items that can withstand use after use and wash after wash with a few knocks thrown in between. This is where durability plays its part. Finding the balance between functionality and durability can be tricky but by considering some simple tips you should discover that you can have the best of both worlds.
Functionality
- Stem less glasses can be used for red wines. The stems on wine glasses are notoriously fragile. Whilst the stem is an integral design feature of a white wine glass, a red wine glass only includes a stem for aesthetic purposes. As red wine is served at room temperature the heat from the drinker’s hands will not have any adverse effects on the product.
- Thinner rims on wine glasses are better. The thinner the wine glass the better the taste of the wine due to less interference between the wine and the mouth. Thicker rimmed wine glasses will naturally be stronger however will impair the taste to a wine connoisseur.
Durability
- Flared and curved glasses are not as durable as straight glassware. The stability of straight glasses is far greater than flared and curved alternatives where the composition of the structure is compromised. Usually the glass at the curve will be thinner than elsewhere on the glass and so more prone to cracks and breaks.
- Thicker glass is less likely to break. This statement is basic common sense and should always be considered when purchasing your business’s glassware.
- Treated glassware means increased durability. The process of manufacturing commercial glassware involves a series of methods and procedures to strengthen the products that take place once the glasses have been formed into the desired shape. These processes make the glass stronger by a system called ‘annealing’. Although these glasses are then considered to be relatively strong some manufacturers will follow this initial treatment with a heat treating process to add a little extra durability. This may sound like an excellent product to buy however they are still not indestructible. Whilst glassware that undergoes this extra process is more resistant to mechanical and thermal shock they will still break. When these treated glasses do break they will often shatter completely and therefore become more hazardous if accidents do occur. When selecting your glassware bear in mind that just because heat treated glasses promise increased durability this does not necessarily mean that they are the safest and most preferable option for your business.
Sometimes the increased functionality of a glass will impair the durability. This is where you will need to find the right balance for the products that your business uses. By compromising in certain areas you will gain advantages in others; the trick is to understand where to compromise.
With a greater understanding and knowledge of the styles of glassware available and the quantity guidelines you should be able to make a confident decision regarding the glassware which will be most suitable for your type of business and the products which you offer, along with how your decisions will enhance the beverages that you serve.