A cooler full of Coors Light sitting on your deck works fine, but why settle? A backyard bar not only adds to your panache as a host, but makes serving guests, friends, and family simpler and more enticing than digging around a chest of ice for every beverage. And it’s not a bank-breaker of an investment. Starting at $50, you can get a beautiful wood bar or go all-out with bar sets that seat six or ones that can be trundled throughout the party area bringing your guests fresh libations to avoid any irritating glut at the serving area.
Riviera Wood Bar
Finished in rich mahogany-stained acacia, the Riviera Acacia wood bar set by Christopher Knight is uncomplicated. Yet it’s really all you need for a small space or two-person household. The acacia hardwood has remarkable quality. But because it is still wood, consider taking a few precautions, like treating the surfaces with a protectant. You wouldn’t want it to fade too quickly over the summer. With the two low-back barstools, you get a complete set, ideal for a more intimate gathering in the backyard.
Trinidad Wicker Bar
This one will withstand most anything while giving your entertainment area some textured flair. A sturdy set for a great value, the Trinidad Wicker Bar by Christopher Knight Home uses weather-resistant polyethylene wicker to withstanding the wind, rain, and sun, season after season. The expensive look that impresses guests without breaking the bank. Wicker serves as the perfect complement to any water scene—think of beach cabanas—making this your best bet for poolside entertaining. The perfect size for buffets or a drink station, you also get a decent amount of storage with deep shelves handy for storing towels and glasses. Hide away the contents with the covered door for a clean, polished look.
Bonnlo Rattan Bar Cart
Not sure where you want the drinks station? No problem! This Bonnlo Outdoor Bar Cart lets you trundle all those refreshing beverages to whichever spot on your patio deck that is most accessible. Not to worry about your bottles rolling away, either, with the brake-lock function on the two wheels. Set your glasses and appetizers atop the solid tempered-glass surface for an elegant touch. Keep everything chilled in the removable stainless ice bucket set in its own bin at the bottom of the trolley, so when you are ready for another pour of Pinot Noir, it’s within easy reach. Without having actual shelf space like many bar sets, this unit utilizes stemware racks for less clutter.
Tabletop Bar Set
Draw the conversation inward with this unique tabletop setup from Best Choice Products. With its upright prism-look, you have a concentrated surface area as opposed to a long stretch of space where people can dismissively grab drinks without even speaking to each other. Here, the family can gather and chat over after-dinner cocktails on warm nights. This unit also features a helpful built-in bottle opener within the table for the beer-lovers. And the four backless bar-height stools have a lightweight design, but feel free to add a cushion for extra comfort. The slated metal tabletop resembles wood for style purposes but is much easier on maintenance—simply wipe down with a moist rag for cleanup.
Milton 7-piece Wicker Bar Set
An excellent choice for a bar set if you tend to host larger gatherings. This Milton bar set provides enough space to seat six and can clearly double as a dining area. Its rugged construction and neutral colors will match just about any outdoor décor. Use the shelving space to stow away a few bottles and pitchers without anything toppling over on the top surface. In a set like this one, where you are not compelled to use fancy wine glasses, it’s worth investing in break-resistant barware, such as plastic or metal cups to give the bar some durability and save yourself the hassle of sweeping up broken glass due to a wayward arm.
Whether you throw big shindigs or simply enjoy evening drinks on your patio, this addition to your outdoor entertainment area instantly transforms the yard into a more welcoming environment meant for mingling, lounging, or just sliding into weekend mode.