Opening a bar is one of the most exciting things to do in the food industry. You have a great opportunity to create your own culture and atmosphere. Maybe you own a restaurant and you are considering launching a bar to mix things up. A bar can significantly improve the appeal of a restaurant as well as the bottom line. However, you need to do it right. A poorly equipped and run bar can become a sore point with new and return customers.
Required License and Insurance
Remember, obtaining a liquor license can take a year or more, so make sure you apply well in advance. The requirements differ from state to state.
Here is a list of general requirements
- You must be the legal drinking age
- Proof of residence
- Have a clean personal history
- Seller’s permit
- Complete state training course
To begin the application process, contact the municipal clerk in your town. For further information, the National Association of Alcoholic Beverage Listing Attorneys is a list of lawyers who can assist clients with the application process.
In addition to a liquor license, you will need liquor insurance. Any establishment connected with alcohol by way of selling or serving liquor is open to a liability claim. There are many ways you will be open to liability including damage from fights, carelessness, and automobile accidents. Proper insurance will cover damages, legal fees, and court fees. Liquor liability insurance is required in most states.
A Successful Bar
As you set up your bar, there are a few things that you want to do to make it as successful as possible. Consider what themes or décor (including imported dispense towers) you want to use to make your bar more appealing. Develop your very own, custom drinks. You want something that people can only get at your place. Make sure you staff is well trained and knowledgeable. Serving tap beer often make for a more loyal customer base, since they can buy cans and bottles at any liquor store.
Installing Beer Lines
One of the most important things is getting a good beer line system in place. Nothing will ruin a busy Friday night like a faulty beer line system. It’s vital to get them properly installed and sufficiently maintained. Going cheap here will hurt your business for years to come. When getting beer lines installed, you will have to choose between the many types of beer line systems such as glycol-cooled, air-cooled, and direct draw. In addition, your gas and CO2 blend need to be correct. Consult with a beer line expert to help you get set up properly.
Cleaning Beer Lines
For commercial purposes, beer line cleaning is something that should be handled by a professional, on a regular basis. Commercial beer lines require frequent and thorough cleanings, something that a homemade solution probably won’t be able to handle. It’s recommended that commercial lines are cleaned at least once every two weeks.
At Clean Beer, we understand the difference a good beer line system can make in your establishment. We offer the full spectrum of servicing beer lines, from installation to cleaning and maintenance. At Clean Beer, in Milford, MA, we sell new and used beer line equipment, home kegerators, ornate and imported dispense towers, and much more. Clean Beer is the home of the clean beer line experts, contact us about your home or commercial tap needs.