On your next trip, bring this compact set along for a test run it packs up easily. It's cool because it's made for bringing your bar tools with you on the go and comes in a cute canteen (that doubles as a shaker) to carry all your tools.” “One set I've been eyeing is the Cocktail Canteen from W&P Design. 'I'm really particular about my bar tools, so I bought all my tools individually and built a collection over the years-but if I could go back and do it all again, I would definitely invest in a nice matching set,” says Wilson.

What's Included: Cocktail shaker, jigger, muddler, strainer, bar spoon, tongs, bottle opener, wooden stand, and recipe booklet | Material: Stainless steel | Dishwasher-Safe: Yes The manufacturer says this kit's inclusions are dishwasher safe, but you'll want to just wipe down the wooden stand. The recipe book is a real show-stopper, featuring 20 recipe cards alongside illustrated images of the drinks. In addition, this set comes with tongs, a bottle opener, a wooden stand, a recipe booklet, and a three-year warranty. The spoon is on the smaller side, which can make stirring cocktails tricky depending on the mixing vessel, but the set makes up for it with a sturdy shaker. If you’re just starting out, follow Wilson’s lead by going with this quality collection of basics from Modern Mixology, which includes all of the above minus the muddler (a tool you can improvise with something you have at home). But I think novice home bartenders should look for a set with a jigger, cocktail shaker, muddler, and bar spoon at minimum.” According to Wilson, these are the essentials as they’re bound to get the most use, and durability is key. What's Included: Jigger, muddler, bar spoon, Hawthorne strainer, tongs, wine key, three universal speed pours (plus caps and brushes), two bottle stoppers, cocktail shaker, bamboo stand, velvet carrying bag and recipe booklet | Material: Stainless steel with silver, black, copper, or gold finish | Dishwasher-Safe: Yes, but only the silver finishįor the beginner bartenders out there, Wilson has a few words of wisdom: “One thing to note is that there's no universal set-every set has different tools. One thing we noticed, however, is that the stand could be a little bit more stable. Set it all up for display on the included stand, or carry it with you in the velvet bag. A wine key is included, along with plenty of other items you didn't know you needed. The set includes everything you need to make cocktails, from a jigger, muddler, bar spoon, and cocktail shaker. This kit is a great option if you’re starting from scratch or if you just want to have extra tools on hand.

If you’re looking for a one-stop-shop, Barillio’s 23-piece kit has everything you could possibly need, and probably more, which may come in handy if you're really into making cocktails or you fall in love with the process as a result of this kit.

Bartender starter kit