Ah, a hotel bar. One of life’s simplest yet most luxurious pleasures.
Not only an oasis for solo travelers looking for refreshment and company, a hotel bar can be a retreat for locals who want to escape their normal routine or pretend they’re on an exotic vacation.
And of course while vibe and decor matter, it’s the options, ingredients, and features on the drink menu that will keep traveling guests and local drinkers returning time and time again to boost revenue and make your hotel a hotspot in the area.
Consider these elements when crafting your hotel bar’s drink menu.
- Regularly change the menu to adapt to the time of year with seasonal drinks.
- Develop a few signature cocktails that represent the hotel’s brand or theme.
- Create photo-worthy drinks with eye-catching glasses, garnishes, or presentations that encourage guests to post on social media.
- Feature non-alcoholic drinks or mocktails on the menu to include and appeal to those who don’t want alcohol.
- Feature spirits and ingredients from local wineries, distilleries, or breweries.
- Consider providing flights of cocktails, wines, or spirits to encourage guests to explore new flavors or drinks.
- Create drinks inspired by local attractions or features.
- Offer classic cocktails with an added signature twist that will communicate an elevated experience.
- Ensure the physical menu presents a cohesive image of the hotel with high-quality materials and design.
- Include fragrant herbs, spices, floral infusions, or smoked elements to appeal to the sense of smell as well as taste.
- Feature a DIY cocktail section where guests can mix and match their favorite spirits and ingredients.
- Offer coffee, tea, and specialty drinks for guests who want a caffeinated pick-me-up during their stay.
- Create a cocktail where a portion of the proceeds give back to the community or a local cause.
- Consider offering a discount or free drink token to guests who are staying at the hotel.
- Clearly indicate if drinks are suitable for dietary restrictions or contain any allergens.
The bar is a great opportunity to continue the art of hospitality throughout your hotel. Intentionally curating a drink menu that reflects your hotel’s values and ideal audience has immense potential to elevate your guests’ experience and make your establishment a regular watering hole in the community.
