Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxing evening, watching a game or dancing the night away with friends, the type of bar you choose can make a big difference to your experience. With so many different types of bars, knowing which one to visit can help you get the most out of your evening. From the cosy warmth of a traditional pub to the sophistication of a wine bar, each type of venue offers its own unique atmosphere, drinks and purpose. Below, we’ll look at the different types of bars, their features, selections and interiors to help you decide which one best suits your mood or occasion. And with the experts at GreatList, we’ll help you choose the best venue for your preferences.
Restaurant Bar
A restaurant bar merges a full dining experience with a robust selection of beverages. Typically, these bars are part of larger dining establishments where guests can enjoy an extensive drink menu, including cocktails, wines, and beers, along with a full meal. This option is perfect for patrons who prefer a relaxed evening with good food and drinks without having to move between venues. The atmosphere is usually refined and suited for both casual dinners and formal dining experiences.
Features: Full menu of meals, professional service, and an extensive drinks list.
Interior: Upscale and elegant, with formal seating, comfortable chairs, and soft lighting.
Popular Drinks: Signature cocktails, fine wines, and craft beers.
Beer Bar or Pub
A beer bar or pub is synonymous with a relaxed, cozy atmosphere and a wide selection of beer. From local craft beers to international brews, beer bars provide a casual setting for anyone who appreciates a good pint. Pubs often come with an old-world charm, with wooden interiors and a social environment where you can chat with friends or even meet new people. Some pubs also serve food, often hearty, comforting dishes like fish and chips or burgers.
Features: Large beer selections, casual food menu, social atmosphere.
Interior: Rustic, with wooden furniture, communal tables, and vintage decor.
Popular Drinks: Craft beers, ales, stouts, and lagers.
Wine Bar
For wine enthusiasts, the wine bar is a sophisticated spot where you can savor a carefully curated selection of wines from around the globe. Many wine bars also offer small plates, such as cheese boards or charcuterie, that complement the flavors of their wines. These establishments often have an intimate and quiet atmosphere, making them ideal for a romantic evening or a laid-back catch-up with friends.
Features: Exclusive wine lists, gourmet snacks, and a calm, elegant ambiance.
Interior: Sleek and modern, with minimalist decor, soft lighting, and comfortable seating.
Popular Drinks: Red, white, and sparkling wines, often including vintage selections.
Cocktail or Smoothie Bar
A cocktail bar is where mixology takes center stage. Skilled bartenders craft creative and often experimental cocktails, blending flavors and ingredients to create signature drinks. Cocktail bars are often trendy and draw a crowd that enjoys the art of drinking. Alternatively, a smoothie bar offers a healthier twist, focusing on fresh fruits, vegetables, and superfoods in their drinks. These are ideal for those looking for a quick, refreshing, and nutritious drink.
Features: Craft cocktails, skilled bartenders, creative drinks.
Interior: Trendy, often featuring neon lights, bar seating, and artistic decor.
Popular Drinks: Mojitos, martinis, signature cocktails, fresh smoothies.
Grill Bar
A grill bar is the perfect spot for those who love the combination of hearty grilled food and drinks. These establishments specialize in barbecue, steaks, and other grilled meats, making them ideal for a casual night out with friends or for watching a sports game. The ambiance is lively and welcoming, with the aroma of grilling food filling the air.
Features: Grilled meats and hearty meals, casual and lively atmosphere.
Interior: Cozy, with an open grill area, rustic decor, and comfortable seating.
Popular Drinks: Craft beers, bourbons, and whiskey paired with steaks or burgers.
Lounge Bar
A lounge bar offers a calm and relaxing environment for those looking to unwind. With its plush seating, soft lighting, and mellow background music, the lounge bar is perfect for a casual evening with friends or a post-work drink. The drinks menu typically includes cocktails, whiskey, and a variety of spirits, served in a setting that encourages conversation and relaxation.
Features: Relaxing atmosphere, comfortable seating, and a focus on spirits and cocktails.
Interior: Cozy and modern, with soft lighting and comfortable chairs or couches.
Popular Drinks: Whiskey, gin, champagne, and classic cocktails.
Disco Bar
For those who want to dance the night away, a disco bar is the go-to place. With loud music, flashing lights, and an energetic crowd, disco bars are ideal for party-goers who enjoy a vibrant nightlife experience. The drinks are usually simple and fast to prepare, allowing bartenders to keep up with the high-energy crowd.
Features: Dance floors, DJs, loud music, and vibrant energy.
Interior: Neon lights, disco balls, and a modern, futuristic vibe.
Popular Drinks: Vodka tonics, rum and coke, tequila shots.
Pool Bar
Found at hotels and resorts, the pool bar offers the luxury of sipping a cocktail while lounging by the water. These bars are ideal for sunny days spent relaxing by the pool, where drinks like tropical cocktails are the go-to choice. The atmosphere is laid-back and casual, perfect for a vacation or a leisurely afternoon.
Features: Poolside service, tropical cocktails, and a relaxed, sunny vibe.
Interior: Open-air, often with sun loungers, umbrellas, and casual seating.
Popular Drinks: Piña coladas, daiquiris, mojitos, and other refreshing cocktails.
Lobby Bar
Located in hotel lobbies, a lobby bar offers convenience for travelers or those seeking a casual meeting place. These bars are often designed to be comfortable and elegant, providing a space where guests can relax with a drink while waiting for an appointment or enjoying a pre-dinner cocktail.
Features: Convenient location, quiet ambiance, and a wide selection of drinks.
Interior: Sleek and modern, with comfortable seating, open space, and often large windows.
Popular Drinks: Classic cocktails, wines, and spirits.
Phytobar
A phytobar focuses on health-conscious drinks made from herbal teas, detox waters, and smoothies. These bars are perfect for those who prefer wellness-oriented beverages that promote relaxation and healthy living. The atmosphere is serene and minimalist, encouraging a sense of calm.
Features: Health-conscious drinks, often using natural ingredients like herbs and fruits.
Interior: Minimalist and calming, with natural wood or green accents.
Popular Drinks: Herbal teas, kombucha, detox smoothies.
Mobile Bar
A mobile bar is a portable service often seen at outdoor events like weddings, festivals, or corporate parties. These bars offer a wide selection of drinks and provide a fun and unique way to enjoy beverages on the go. Mobile bars are typically customizable to fit the theme of the event and are a great option for outdoor celebrations.
Features: Portable, customizable, perfect for outdoor events.
Interior: Often themed, with rustic or modern decor depending on the event.
Popular Drinks: Custom cocktails, beer, wine, and champagne.
Servery Bar
A servery bar is all about quick service, often found in high-traffic areas like airports, stadiums, or concert halls. The menu is typically simple, with pre-made drinks or quickly prepared cocktails to keep up with the fast-paced environment.
Features: Fast service, simple drink menu, high customer turnover.
Interior: Functional and minimal, designed for quick service.
Popular Drinks: Beer, pre-mixed cocktails, sodas.
Express Bar
Similar to a servery bar, an express bar focuses on quick, on-the-go service. Patrons can quickly grab a drink and continue with their activities. These bars are often found in places like train stations or malls and offer a limited selection of easy-to-serve drinks.
Features: Grab-and-go service, simple and efficient.
Interior: Minimal seating, designed for fast customer flow.
Popular Drinks: Espresso shots, cocktails-to-go, light beers.
Tab Bar
A tab bar is a bar where customers can open a tab, allowing them to order multiple drinks and settle the bill at the end of their visit. This system is convenient for groups or individuals who plan to stay for a while. The atmosphere can range from casual to high-end, depending on the establishment.
Features: Tab payment system, ideal for longer stays.
Interior: Varies from casual pub-style to more formal settings.
Popular Drinks: Beer, cocktails, wines, and spirits.
DJ Bar
A DJ bar combines the elements of a lively club with a bar atmosphere. With a professional DJ playing curated sets, these bars are great for those who enjoy vibrant music and a social scene. The drinks tend to be trendy and colorful, matching the upbeat ambiance.
Features: Live DJ, vibrant energy, dance-friendly environment.
Interior: Modern and sleek, with an emphasis on the DJ booth and dance floor
Popular Drinks: Colorful cocktails, shots, craft beers.
Speakeasy Bar
A speakeasy bar offers an exclusive, hidden experience, often reminiscent of the Prohibition era. These bars are usually tucked away in secret locations, accessible through hidden doors or unmarked entrances. Inside, you’ll find a vintage atmosphere with handcrafted cocktails that pay homage to classic recipes.
Features: Secretive, vintage-inspired, and intimate.
Interior: Dark and cozy, with antique furniture and dim lighting.
Popular Drinks: Old-fashioned, Manhattan, and vintage cocktails.
To Sum up
For recommendations on where to go based on your mood or occasion, GreatList provides expert reviews and evaluations. Their team has scouted and tasted their way through various establishments, giving you the best insights into where to visit next. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back evening, a dance-fueled night out, or a cozy wine-tasting experience, GreatList can guide you to the right place. Visit their website for honest, expert reviews of bars that suit every taste and occasion!
Soccer lover, doer, DJ, Mad Men fan and recent OCAD grad. Making at the sweet spot between beauty and programing to answer design problems with honest solutions. Let’s design a world that’s thoughtful, considered and aesthetically pleasing.
