Opening a bar is an exciting venture, but it takes more than great cocktails to keep customers coming back. From the layout of your space to the atmosphere you create, there are key decisions that can make or break your business. Here are five important things to keep in mind before you open your doors.
1. Choose a Concept That Matches Your Market
Before securing a lease or drafting a menu, spend time understanding your local market. What type of bar will resonate with your area? A relaxed neighborhood bar might do well in a residential district, while an upscale cocktail lounge could be better suited to a city center. Knowing your audience helps guide your design, drink offerings, and pricing, ensuring you build a loyal customer base from the very start.
2. Plan an Efficient Layout
Space planning is crucial, not just for aesthetics, but for operational flow. Your bar staff need room to move quickly and safely during busy shifts, while guests should feel comfortable whether they’re seated at a table or gathered around the bar. Think through traffic patterns, how bartenders will access glassware and ingredients, and where to position point-of-sale systems. A smart layout saves time and keeps the experience smooth and safe for everyone.
3. Hire and Train the Right Staff
A bar’s success often depends on the team behind it. Bartenders are more than just drink makers. They’re entertainers, salespeople, and problem solvers. Look for individuals who are personable, responsible, and passionate about hospitality. Once hired, provide thorough training on your menu, house policies, and customer service expectations. Investing in your staff from the outset helps create a welcoming environment that encourages repeat visits.
4. Get Legal with Background Music
Music sets the mood in your bar, but simply streaming from a personal playlist or consumer service like Spotify doesn’t cover the proper licensing for commercial use. Playing music without the right permissions can lead to fines or legal disputes. A licensed background music service like SoundMachine ensures you’re fully compliant with performance rights organizations (PROs) such as ASCAP and BMI. Their platform offers curated stations and custom playlists designed for bars, along with scheduling tools to adjust the vibe throughout the day. You can explore more about music for bars to keep your ambiance on point and legally protected.
5. Focus on Consistency and Experience
It’s tempting to pour your energy into a splashy grand opening, but long-term success comes from delivering a consistent guest experience. This includes maintaining the quality of your drinks, the friendliness of your staff, and the look and feel of your space. Customers should know exactly what to expect each time they walk in. A comfortable, inviting ambiance, supported by the right music, lighting, and décor, helps make your bar a go-to spot rather than a one-time novelty.
The Takeaway
Launching a bar is a big commitment, but with thoughtful planning across these key areas, you’ll set yourself up for lasting success. By understanding your market, designing an efficient space, hiring and training the right team, managing your background music legally, and delivering a consistent experience, you’ll create a bar that keeps guests coming back time and time again.
