Discover the Best Mobile Bar Drinks for Your Next UK Celebration

Planning a celebration in the UK and wondering what to serve? Mobile bar drinks can really make an event special. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just a get-together, having a mobile bar means you can have all sorts of great drinks brought right to you. It takes the stress out of stocking up and serving, letting you and your guests relax and enjoy the party. From classic cocktails to something a bit different, there are plenty of mobile bar drinks options to suit any taste and occasion.

Key Takeaways

• Mobile bar drinks offer a wide variety of choices, from classic cocktails to premium spirits, catering to diverse guest preferences.

• Signature cocktails can be created to match your event’s theme or personal taste, adding a unique touch.

• Non-alcoholic options, such as mocktails and soft drinks, are readily available to ensure all guests can enjoy refreshing beverages.

• Prosecco, wine, and beer selections are common mobile bar drinks, providing familiar favourites for many occasions.

• Specialised themed bars, like Gin Gardens or Whisky Tastings, can provide a unique and memorable experience for your celebration.

Classic Cocktails

Classic cocktails are a sure-fire hit for any UK celebration. They’re familiar, well-loved, and offer a touch of sophistication that guests always appreciate. For mobile bar services, stocking a few timeless classics is a smart move. It means less guesswork for you and your clients, and a higher chance of pleasing everyone.

Focus on quality ingredients and skilled preparation for maximum impact.

Here are some must-haves:

• Mojito: Fresh mint, lime, sugar, white rum, and soda water. Easy to make in batches, refreshing, and always popular.

• Pornstar Martini: Passion fruit, vanilla vodka, passion fruit liqueur, lime juice, and a shot of prosecco. A modern classic that feels celebratory.

• Espresso Martini: Vodka, coffee liqueur, fresh espresso, and sugar syrup. A great pick-me-up and a sophisticated choice.

• Gin & Tonic: Simple, but presentation matters. Offer a few premium gin options and quality tonic water. Fresh garnishes like lime or cucumber make a difference.

Practical Tips for Mobile Bars:

1. Prep Ahead: Juice limes, make sugar syrup, and pre-batch certain elements where possible to speed up service during busy periods. Store these in airtight containers.

2. Garnish Station: Set up a dedicated area for garnishes (mint sprigs, lime wedges, orange peels, cherries). This keeps things organised and looks professional.

3. Ice is Key: Always have plenty of good quality ice. It’s vital for both chilling and dilution. Consider different types of ice if space allows (e.g., large cubes for spirit-forward drinks).

Safety Note: Ensure all staff are trained in responsible alcohol service. Keep a first-aid kit accessible and know your local licensing laws.

When serving classics, consistency is everything. Guests expect their favourite drink to taste the same every time. This builds trust and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience for everyone at the party.

Signature Cocktails

Make your celebration stand out with bespoke cocktails. These aren’t your average drinks; they’re crafted to be memorable and unique to your event. A signature cocktail is a fantastic way to add a personal touch and create a talking point for your guests.

Why offer signature cocktails?

• Unique Branding: Reflects the host’s personality or the event’s theme.

• Guest Experience: Offers something special they won’t find elsewhere.

• Operational Ease: A pre-selected menu simplifies ordering and preparation for the bar staff.

Creating Your Signature Drink

1. Consultation: Discuss your event theme, preferred flavours, and spirit bases with your mobile bar provider.

2. Development: The mixologist will propose a few unique recipes. Consider taste, appearance, and ease of preparation.

3. Testing: Sample the options to ensure they meet your expectations.

Example Signature Cocktails:

• The ‘Jubilee Fizz’: A blend of English gin, elderflower liqueur, fresh lime, and a splash of prosecco, garnished with a sprig of mint. Perfect for a summer garden party.

• ‘Highland Sunset’: Scotch whisky, blood orange juice, a dash of honey syrup, and a twist of orange peel. Ideal for a more sophisticated, autumnal gathering.

• ‘Mermaid’s Kiss’: White rum, blue curaçao, pineapple juice, and a hint of coconut cream, topped with a cherry. A fun, tropical option for a lively celebration.

Practical Tips for Mobile Bar Hire:

• Ingredient Sourcing: Discuss with your bar provider whether they supply all ingredients or if you need to provide specific items. For signature drinks, it’s often best to let the professionals handle sourcing to guarantee quality and consistency.

• Glassware: Ensure the chosen glassware complements the cocktail’s style. A tall glass for a fizzy drink, a coupe for a more delicate serve.

• Garnish: Don’t forget the garnish! Fresh fruit, herbs, or even a sugar rim can make a big difference to the look and taste.

When planning signature cocktails, think about the overall guest count and the time of year. A refreshing, light drink might be perfect for a summer wedding, while a warmer, spirit-forward cocktail could suit an autumn anniversary. Discussing these details with your mobile bar service will help them prepare effectively and ensure your guests are delighted.

Mocktails

Don’t forget the non-alcoholic options! Mocktails are a brilliant way to include everyone, offering sophisticated drinks without the alcohol. They’re perfect for designated drivers, younger guests, or anyone choosing to abstain. A well-crafted mocktail menu shows you’ve thought of all your guests.

Benefits for Mobile Bar Caterers:

• Wider Appeal: Caters to a broader audience, increasing customer satisfaction.

• Reduced Alcohol Costs: Can be a cost-effective addition, especially for events with many non-drinkers.

• Creative Opportunities: Allows for unique flavour combinations and attractive presentation.

• Flexibility: Easily adaptable to seasonal ingredients and dietary needs.

Getting Started with Mocktails:

1. Source Quality Ingredients: Use fresh fruits, quality juices, and good quality syrups. Think homemade grenadine or ginger syrup for that extra touch.

2. Balance Flavours: Aim for a mix of sweet, sour, and sometimes a hint of bitter or spice. A splash of lime or lemon juice is often key.

3. Presentation Matters: Use nice glassware, garnishes like mint sprigs or fruit slices, and even a fun straw. Make them look as appealing as their alcoholic counterparts.

Popular Mocktail Ideas:

• Virgin Mojito: Mint, lime, sugar, soda water.

• Cranberry Sparkler: Cranberry juice, orange juice, a splash of lime, topped with lemonade or soda.

• Cucumber Cooler: Cucumber slices muddled with mint, lime juice, and topped with tonic water.

Safety Note: Always clearly label mocktails on your menu and at the bar to avoid any confusion with alcoholic drinks. Ensure separate, clean utensils are used for preparation.

Prosecco

A glass of bubbly always adds a touch of class. For mobile bar hire, offering Prosecco is a simple win. It’s popular, easy to serve, and guests love it.

Keep it chilled and ready to pour for instant celebration.

Why offer Prosecco?

• Broad Appeal: Most guests enjoy a sparkling wine. It’s a safe bet for varied tastes.

• Easy Service: No complex mixing needed. Just open and pour. This speeds up service, especially at busy events.

• Perceived Value: It feels celebratory and sophisticated without a high cost for you.

• Versatile: Works well on its own or as a base for simple Prosecco cocktails like a Bellini.

Practical Tips for Mobile Bars:

1. Storage: You’ll need a cool, dark place to store bottles before the event. On the day, a good chiller or ice bucket is key. Aim to keep it between 6-8°C.

2. Glassware: Have enough clean flutes ready. Consider polycarbonate if you’re outdoors or concerned about breakages.

3. Opening: Practice opening bottles smoothly. A sharp ‘pop’ is good, a loud ‘bang’ less so. Tilt the bottle and twist the cork gently.

4. Quantity: Estimate based on guest numbers. A standard 75cl bottle serves about 6 small glasses. For a 4-hour event, budget around half a bottle per person, adjusting for your crowd.

Serving chilled Prosecco quickly and efficiently shows professionalism. It’s a simple addition that makes a big difference to the guest experience and your bar’s reputation.

Wine

Wine offers a sophisticated choice for any UK celebration. It’s a crowd-pleaser that suits many tastes and occasions. For mobile bar services, stocking a good range of wines is straightforward and profitable.

Consider offering a selection of popular wines to cater to diverse preferences. This includes a crisp white, a smooth red, and a refreshing rosé. Think about popular choices like Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, and a dry Rosé. These are generally well-received and easy to serve.

Practical Steps for Mobile Bar Wine Service:

• Storage: Ensure you have a cool, dark place to store wine bottles. Avoid direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. For events, a wine fridge or cooler is ideal if space allows.

• Serving Temperature: White and rosé wines should be chilled, ideally between 7-10°C. Red wines are best served slightly cooler than room temperature, around 15-18°C. Have ice buckets ready for quick chilling.

• Glassware: Use appropriate wine glasses. Cleanliness is key. Ensure glasses are polished and free from streaks.

• Opening: Have a reliable corkscrew or waiter’s friend. Practice opening bottles smoothly and quickly, especially during busy periods.

• Pouring: Offer standard measures. Avoid over-pouring, which can lead to waste and quicker consumption.

Safety Note: Always check the condition of wine bottles before serving. Ensure corks are intact and there are no signs of leakage or spoilage. If a bottle looks or smells off, do not serve it.

Example Scenario: At a garden party, offering a chilled Pinot Grigio and a light-bodied Beaujolais provides a good balance. For a more formal dinner, a Chardonnay and a Cabernet Sauvignon might be more suitable. Having a sparkling option, like Prosecco, is also a good idea, though covered separately.

Offering a curated wine list, even a small one, shows attention to detail. It allows guests to enjoy a classic drink without the fuss of complex preparation, making it a simple yet effective addition to your mobile bar’s offerings.

Beer

A good selection of beers is a must for any UK celebration. Offering a range of lagers, ales, and ciders means you’ve got something for everyone. For mobile caterers, stocking popular brands is key. Think about what sells well at local pubs or festivals.

Keep it simple with crowd-pleasers.

• Lagers: Easy drinking and widely liked. Offer a well-known international brand and a popular UK lager.

• Ales: A staple for many. Consider a local craft ale for a unique touch, alongside a classic bitter.

• Ciders: Especially popular in summer. A dry and a medium-sweet option usually covers most tastes.

Practical Tips:

• Storage: Ensure you have adequate cool storage. Beer needs to be served at the right temperature.

• Glassware: Have clean, appropriate glasses ready. Pint glasses are standard, but consider half-pint options too.

• Stock Management: Keep track of what’s popular. This helps with ordering for future events and reduces waste.

Safety Note: Always serve alcohol responsibly. Ensure you have measures in place to prevent over-consumption.

For a mobile bar, offering a few well-chosen beers is more practical than a huge variety. It simplifies stock, reduces waste, and makes service quicker. Guests appreciate having familiar favourites available.

Soft Drinks

Don’t forget the non-alcoholic options! Offering a good range of soft drinks is key for any mobile bar, catering to all guests, including designated drivers and those who prefer not to drink alcohol. It’s a simple way to make everyone feel included.

A well-stocked soft drink selection shows you’ve thought of everyone.

What to Offer:

• Juices: Apple, orange, and cranberry are popular choices. Consider a tropical blend for something a bit different.

• Sparkling Options: Elderflower pressé, lemonade, and ginger beer add a touch of fizz without the alcohol.

• Standard Mixers: Tonic water, soda water, and cola are essential for those having spirits or mocktails.

• Still Water: Always have plain still water available, perhaps with a slice of lemon or cucumber.

Practical Tips for Mobile Bars:

• Storage: Keep drinks chilled. A good cooler or fridge space is vital. Pre-chill as much as possible before the event.

• Presentation: Serve in clean glasses. Offer garnishes like lemon wedges or mint sprigs, just as you would for alcoholic drinks.

• Stock Management: Keep track of what’s popular. It’s better to have a little extra than run out.

Safety Note: Always check expiry dates on bottled and canned drinks before serving.

Example: For a summer garden party, a jug of infused water with mint and cucumber, alongside bottles of premium lemonade and elderflower pressé, would be a refreshing hit.

Premium Spirits

Offering a selection of top-shelf spirits can really make your mobile bar stand out. It’s not just about the usual suspects; think about offering guests a choice of high-quality gins, vodkas, rums, and whiskies. This caters to those who appreciate a finer drink and can justify a slightly higher price point if you’re running a cash bar.

Stocking premium spirits means you can offer more sophisticated cocktails and attract a clientele willing to pay for quality.

When choosing your premium range, consider:

• Variety: Include a mix of well-known premium brands and perhaps a few craft options that are popular in the UK.

• Versatility: Select spirits that work well in a variety of cocktails or can be enjoyed neat or on the rocks.

• Profitability: Premium spirits often have better margins, especially if you’re offering them as part of a cash bar service.

Practical Steps for Mobile Bar Operators:

1. Consult Your Client: Discuss their preferences and guest profile. A wedding might call for different premium spirits than a corporate event.

2. Source Wisely: Build relationships with suppliers who can offer good wholesale prices on premium brands.

3. Storage and Safety: Ensure spirits are stored securely and at the correct temperature. Keep track of stock to prevent loss.

4. Presentation: Display premium bottles attractively at the bar. Use clear signage indicating the premium options and their prices.

For example, instead of just standard gin, offer a London Dry and a more floral or citrus-led craft gin. For whisky, consider a single malt alongside a blended Scotch. This attention to detail shows you’re serious about quality.

Offering premium spirits isn’t just about having expensive bottles; it’s about providing a curated experience. It allows guests to feel indulged and can significantly boost your bar’s reputation and profitability. Remember to train your staff on the different spirit profiles so they can make informed recommendations.

Whisky Tastings

Offer a sophisticated whisky tasting experience. It’s a great way to add a unique touch to weddings, corporate events, or private parties.

A well-curated whisky tasting can be a real talking point.

Benefits for Mobile Caterers:

• Adds a premium service: Differentiates your offering from standard bar services.

• High profit potential: Whisky tastings can command higher prices.

• Engages guests: Provides an interactive and educational element.

• Low space requirement: Can be set up in a dedicated corner or small area.

Setting Up a Whisky Tasting:

1. Select your whiskies: Choose a range of 3-5 whiskies. Consider different regions (e.g., Speyside, Islay, Highlands) or styles (e.g., single malt, blended, bourbon).

2. Prepare tasting notes: Provide simple cards with key information about each whisky – origin, flavour profile, ABV.

3. Arrange glassware: Use appropriate whisky tasting glasses (tulip-shaped is ideal) for each guest.

4. Offer water and palate cleansers: Small glasses of water and plain biscuits or bread help cleanse the palate between drams.

Example Whisky Selection:

Safety and Practicalities:

• Responsible serving: Ensure guests are drinking responsibly. Offer smaller tasting measures (e.g., 25ml).

• Staff training: Bartenders should have basic knowledge of the whiskies being served.

• Storage: Keep bottles upright and away from direct sunlight.

A whisky tasting offers a memorable journey through Scotland’s national drink. It’s an opportunity for guests to discover new flavours and appreciate the craft behind each bottle. For mobile caterers, it’s a chance to provide an exclusive experience that guests will talk about long after the event.

Gin Gardens

Transform your event space into a vibrant Gin Garden. This theme is perfect for summer parties, weddings, and corporate events. It offers a relaxed, botanical atmosphere that guests adore.

Offer a refreshing twist with a dedicated gin bar.

Key Benefits for Mobile Caterers:

• High Profit Margins: Gin and tonic combinations are popular and cost-effective to prepare.

• Visual Appeal: Garnish stations with fresh botanicals, fruits, and herbs create stunning displays.

• Customisation: Easily tailor the gin selection and garnishes to match event themes or client preferences.

• Scalability: Adaptable for intimate gatherings or large-scale celebrations.

Setting Up Your Gin Garden:

1. Bar Design: Opt for a rustic or botanical-themed bar. Think wooden finishes, hanging plants, or floral arrangements.

2. Garnish Station: Prepare a diverse selection of garnishes. This includes citrus wheels (lemon, lime, grapefruit), berries, cucumber ribbons, rosemary sprigs, and edible flowers.

3. Tonic Selection: Offer a range of premium tonics. Consider classic Indian, Mediterranean, elderflower, and flavoured options.

4. Glassware: Use Copa de Balon glasses (balloon glasses) for a classic gin and tonic presentation.

Popular Gin Pairings:

Safety First:

• Ensure all fresh garnishes are washed thoroughly.

• Keep ice bins covered and clean to prevent contamination.

• Train staff on correct pouring measures and responsible service.

Consider offering a signature gin cocktail, like a Bramble or a gin Mojito, to add a special touch. This Davenport’s Events page has some great ideas for popular choices. A well-executed Gin Garden bar can become a memorable centrepiece for any UK celebration.

Cheers to a Great Celebration!

So, there you have it. Choosing the right mobile bar drinks can really make your UK celebration stand out. Whether you’re after classic cocktails, something a bit different, or just a good pint, there’s a mobile bar service out there to suit your needs and budget. Think about what your guests would enjoy most, and don’t be afraid to ask potential suppliers about their menus and packages. Getting this sorted means you can relax and enjoy the party, knowing the drinks are in good hands. Here’s to a fantastic event!

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of drinks can a mobile bar offer for a UK celebration?

A mobile bar can serve a wide range of drinks to suit any UK celebration. This includes classic and signature cocktails, refreshing mocktails for those who don’t drink alcohol, popular choices like Prosecco and wine, a selection of beers, and various soft drinks. Many also offer premium spirits and can even host special tasting experiences like whisky flights or create a dedicated ‘Gin Garden’ area.

How much does it typically cost to hire a mobile bar in the UK?

The cost can vary depending on what you need. Prices often start around £250, but this can go up based on how long you need the bar, how many guests you have, and the types of drinks you want. Some companies offer packages that include the bar, drinks, and staff, which can be more cost-effective than hiring separately.

Can a mobile bar cater for guests who don’t drink alcohol?

Absolutely! Most mobile bars are very good at providing options for everyone. They offer a variety of non-alcoholic choices, such as delicious mocktails made with fresh ingredients, alongside standard soft drinks. This ensures that all your guests, whether they drink alcohol or not, can enjoy a refreshing beverage.

How long does it take for a mobile bar to be set up?

Setting up a mobile bar usually takes between 60 to 120 minutes. This can depend on the size of the event and the complexity of the bar setup. Most companies factor this setup and breakdown time into their service, often including it free of charge for a set period.

What’s the difference between an all-inclusive bar and a dry bar hire?

With an all-inclusive bar hire, the company provides everything – the bar, drinks, mixers, garnishes, glassware, and staff. You don’t have to worry about a thing. A dry bar hire typically includes the bar structure and a bartender, but you would supply the alcohol, mixers, and ice yourself. It offers more control over the drinks selection but requires more effort from you.

Can I request a specific cocktail or theme for my event?

Yes, most mobile bar services are happy to create a custom drink menu for your event. You can often choose signature cocktails that match your theme or personal taste. Some companies even specialise in themed bars, like a ‘Gin Garden’ or a ‘Whisky Tasting’ experience, to make your celebration even more unique.