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In current cocktail culture, it’s hard to avoid seeing bar concepts that look like a carbon copy of another establishment down the street or in a neighborhood across town. Trends show even certain chain restaurants are able to execute a decent set of classic cocktails these days, so at what point is it too much? Too redundant?

I often hear people within the cocktail trade asking questions about this very subject, often for the sake of their own bar’s concept and menu planning. Folks who are new to cocktails for their bar want to know what they need to do. Do they need to be able to produce these classic cocktails perfectly, or what is the secret ingredient to a successful concept?

In a perfect world, consumers should be able to get a great drink no matter where they decide to imbibe, but also from my experience, I believe in order for an establishment to really succeed without a food concept, the real secret isn’t the best cocktail in town anymore.

When I think to myself, “Why do I choose to go to Bar A over Bar B?”, the final answer no longer lies in the perfect drink, the prettiest decorations, or the most exclusive joint in town, it all comes down to the bar that can provide their customers the highest quality service and hospitality. Any bar can make a decent Old Fashioned these days, but not every bar can do it with a welcoming staff with smiles on their faces. Bars that are able to provide customers that feeling of being at home, they’re already a step ahead of the competition.

The good news for consumers is, if you find yourself in an establishment without great customer service and hospitality, you can take your business elsewhere without having to sacrifice your favorite drink’s quality!