When the weather is right, outdoor bars make it easy to serve beverages to every guest without the need to refill a cooler or make frequent trips to the kitchen. Host your next backyard barbecue or a tailgate party with cold, refreshing drinks at the ready.
Types of Outdoor Bars
Patio bars are a stylish upgrade from using ice chests or ice buckets to make drinks available outside. They’re typically equipped with under-counter storage to hold bottles, accessories, and a cooler or small refrigerator. Here are a few styles to choose from:
● Bar Tables. A typical outdoor bar table ranges in height from 32 to 54 inches. It’s used as a station for keeping beverages cold or mixing and pouring drinks. Tuck one aside on your patio or feature it as a decorative focal point. A bar with intricate stonework makes a nice feature on a stone patio.
● L-Shaped Bars. L-shaped bar tables have shelving for storage and plenty of counter space to serve a crowd. Choose one with your favorite sports team logo for the ultimate tailgating accessory. Some include a matching umbrella.
● Bar Cart. An outdoor bar cart is like a portable outdoor bar with wheels, which allows for easy transport. Move it from the patio to poolside in minutes. You can also use it as additional surface space, or an extra prep station near the grill.
● Patio Bar Sets with Stools. To create outdoor patio bar with seating, go with a countertop option above 45 inches. Select
outdoor bar stools, or choose an
outdoor bar set with stools included.
Materials to Consider
Outdoor bars can be made from wood, aluminum, stone and wicker. Wicker and
metal patio furniture is on trend—it’s prized for being durable, lightweight and weatherproof. A wicker bar complements an outdoor space with a country or rustic vibe. Choose a stone serving bar for a more natural, solid look.
Outdoor bar furniture is designed to be weather-resistant. However, some styles have glass or oiled-wood tops that shouldn’t be left outside during severe weather. Be sure to use outdoor furniture covers to protect your pieces when they’re not in use.