Bartenders are society’s unsung heroes. Think about it. They provide social lubrication and a shoulder to cry on. They’re the alchemists who turn liquid ingredients into elixirs that transform a terrible day into a more than tolerable evening.
Let's be honest, they deserve more than another generic gift card or a sad bottle of bottom-shelf liquor. Your favorite mixologist deserves only the absolute best gifts for bartenders.
So how do you thank someone with that magical ability to read your mood, mix a drink that speaks directly to your soul, and all while looking effortlessly cool? Don’t just give them any gift – give them a tribute to their craft.
Read on for the greatest gift ideas for the mixologist in your life. From barware to bartending wear, we share the 16 best gifts for bartenders.
[Wondering where to buy thoughtful gifts for your favorite bartender? No need to look further. Broken Bartender’s unique t-shirts and cheeky gifts are what bartenders didn’t know they needed until they got it.]
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16 best gifts for bartenders of every type
So what do you get for the bartender who seems to have everything? You want to show your appreciation, but you also don’t want to end up being that person who gives them yet more coasters or another craft beer gift set.
You need some great gift that resonates and says, “I know you’re not just mixing drinks; you’re creating art.”
And then there’s the diverse personalities behind the bar. Some bartenders are all about the classics, while others are experimental wizards. The best gift to give a bartender is something that matches their personality behind the bar.
In the following gift guide, we’ve compiled 16 gifts that cater to every type of bartender—from the professional bartender flipping bottles like a ninja to the enthusiastic home bartender still figuring out how to use a muddler without turning mint into mush.
Best bartender gifts: Eccentric bar tools that actually do the job
Because bartenders need more than just cool stuff. They need functionality. Got an eccentric mixologist? These bartending tools are just the the right gift ideas to bring the right amount of functionality and flair to their mixing game:
1. Scotch Ness Critter Whisky Stone
Everyone needs a drinking buddy – your giftee bartender notwithstanding. The Scotch Ness Critter Whisky Stone is ready for a dive into their scotch or Old Fashioned.
Scotch Nessie keeps drinks cooled without diluting them. That’s because she’s made from stainless steel instead of ice cubes. And with a silicone suction cup she’s sure to stay right where you want her. The Scottish critter is extremely popular among Over 10,000 sold worldwide!
Bonus: Gift a Nessie pin with that if you want to make it really special.
2. Unique jigger
In the world of mixology, precision is what separates the pros from the part-timers. A jigger is one of those essential bar tools that serious bartenders take seriously.
What’s so special about a jigger? It helps achieve that perfect balance of flavors – but it’s more than a measuring cup. Look for one with unique designs or materials, such as a double-sided jigger featuring engraved measurements or one made from polished copper.
Gift a jigger to help your bartender measure spirits accurately with a touch of sophistication.
3. Personalized bar sign
This one’s among the best gifts for home bartenders. Everyone loves a little personalization, and a custom bar sign is just the ticket. Want to have a really great gift? Make that sign neon.
Don’t think you’re just giving a piece of home decor. Whether it’s their name or a cheeky phrase, a cool bartender sign will up any home bar from DIY drinking hole to VIP cocktail club.
Source: Unsplash
4. Digital scale for cocktails
As we said, precision is key in the art of mixology. A digital scale gets bartenders laser precision. Compact, accurate to the gram, and designed specifically for cocktail preparation, it takes the guesswork out of mixing.
For the bartender who believes that every milliliter matters, a pocket scale slash scientific instrument the size of a cardholder is the perfect gift.
5. Professional bar spoon
Why give a spoon? Because a bar spoon is more than just a stirring tool – it’s an extension of a bartender’s creativity. And like a wizard’s wand, a professional bar spoon has the power to elevate any home bartender to professional mixologist.
Opt for an elongated handle and a twisted design for effortless mixing and layering of cocktails. Some bar spoons even come with a built-in muddler on the end!
Source: Unsplash
Best gifts for bartender: Extremely stylish bartender wear
A bartender on the job isn’t just mixing drinks. They're putting on a show. And what's a show without the right costume?
Epic bartender clothes do more than make your bartender friend look as good as their cocktails taste. They deliver a statement. The clothes below are conversation starters, ice breakers, and silent high-fives to fellow industry professionals.
6. "Your Hangover Gets Worse with Age" T-shirt
This isn't just a heavy, oversized t-shirt of exceptional quality. It's also a public service announcement. Perfect for the bartender who's seen it all and isn't afraid to dish out some hard truths along with those tequila shots.
Our “Your Hangover Gets Worse with Age” t-shirt is a stylish conversation starter that could save some poor bar hopper from a morning of regret.
7. "Stop Buying Bad Tequila" T-shirt
Here’s a garment for the bartender who's tired of seeing good margaritas ruined by subpar spirits. The solution is a t-shirt that’s more than fashion. It's education you can wear.
The “Stop Buying Bad Tequila” T-shirt is another one of our wearable personal service announcements, gently nudging patrons towards better choices.
8. Barcode: Bartender T-shirt
Simple, sleek, to the point – that’s what this workhorse t-shirt is. This stylish clothing item says "Yes, I'm a bartender, and no, I can't be bought with a smile and a wink."
The Barcode Bartender T-shirt is perfect for the professional bartender, the no-nonsense mixologist who lets their drinks do the talking.
9. Stylish bar aprons
An apron should be more than a piece of flimsy fabric that keeps you from spilling spirits on your clothes. No, we're talking about the heavy-duty stuff. Professional aprons are durable, multi-pocketed workwear that hold tools, protect clothing, and make a bartender look like they mean business.
With designated spaces for jiggers, bottle openers, and other essential tools, this apron is like a Swiss Army knife for mixology.
10. Bartender hoodies
Because even cocktail creators get cold sometimes. These hoodies are ideal for off-duty lounging on chilly nights. Or for those unfrequented first hours in a cold basement bar.
Broken Bartender’s hoodies are comfortable, stylish, and currently on pre-order – because good things come to those who wait. Order one before they run out!
11. Aperol Spritz dad hat
This stylish dad hat is for the bartenders and enthusiasts who know that the best time for drinks is aperitivo time. Especially when that time can be had with an Italian sunset overlooking the Como Lake.
The Aperol Spritz dad hat has Italian flair, European elegance, and American casual design into one fine piece of headgear.
12. "But First, Champagne" dad hat
Don’t you think that every day should start with a little sparkle? Your bartender friend will agree.
The “But First, Champagne” dad hat is perfect for the bartender who believes in celebrating the small things. Preferably by popping bottles.
These fun accessories are small character tokens
When it comes to giving gifts, sometimes you want to go small. You want to give something subtle yet impactful. Memorabilia. Or perhaps the kind of accessory that adds a touch of bartender to any outfit.
Here’s a selection of accessories that your favorite bartender will be seen using in private and public:
13. Unique glassware
In the category of memorabilia, try to get the most unique glassware out there. Any mixologist or home bartender will appreciate an antique growler or a funny-shaped shot glass.
Remember that in bartending, presentation is half the challenge. With unique glasses, your bartender friend won’t be serving boring beverages any longer.
14. Funny ice molds
Just like the right martini glasses can make the presentation, so does the right shape of an ice cube. But why not go beyond right? Why not go wacky?
From skulls and cats to middle fingers, ice molds come in all shapes and sizes. Amazon is full of funny ice molds. If you’re looking for a thoughtful gift that just keeps on giving, then an ice mold can provide your bartender friend with an infinite amount of laughs.
15. Smallest Cocktail Shaker Ever
Prepare to be amazed by this pint-sized marvel! The Smallest Cocktail Shaker Ever is adorable. Your bartender is guaranteed to show this off to colleagues and clients all the time.
This tiny shaker, crafted from precision-cut stainless steel, is designed as a pendant that can actually unscrew to mix up miniature cocktails. It’s the perfect gift for bartenders that don’t take themselves too seriously.
16. Bartender pins
Bartender pins are a little token of appreciation that go a long way. They’re small, fun, and easy to give. When worn, they add flair to any outfit and in any situation.
Pin them t-shirts, aprons, shirt collars, or hats. Wear them while working a shift, at a cocktail party, or at your grandmother-in-law’s funeral. They’re that versatile. In fact, we think every bartender should be wearing bartender pins.
FAQ: The right gift for the occasion
Like mixology, giving gifts is a form of art. Sometimes a small gift is appropriate, while other times a big thank you is in place. So when do you go for the cocktail picks and when do you give a complete tool set? The questions and answers below shed some light on the matter:
How do you thank a bartender?
In case you don’t know this already: bartenders love tips. In fact, they live off the tips given by thankful patrons. If you want to give a special thank you, however, your local bartender will certainly appreciate a small bartender gift. Something like a bartender pin, perhaps?
What is a good gift to bring to a cocktail party?
Hosting a cocktail party is a fun way to get the friends together. Bring a special spirit and some mixers. Or bring the bitters and garnish – they often lack at DIY parties and elevate cocktails to the next level.
Sometimes you want to give a more substantial and lasting gift. Then ask yourself, “What to get for a cocktail lover?” A cool cocktail shaker (also called a boston shaker) comes to mind. Want to go all out? Give a shaker set, complete with a bar spoon and strainer.
Another great gift idea is a cocktail recipe book that can be used at the cocktail party. What you want to bring is something that can be used at the party. Heck, give the host a peeler if you’re bringing lemons anyway.
What is a good holiday gift for bartenders?
If you want to go all out on the holidays, a piece of equipment will make any bartender happy. Need gift ideas? How about juicers or cocktail carbonators, or molecular mixology tools like siphons, blowtorches, vacuum sealers, and other gadgets?
Cheers to the gift of giving
In a world where gift cards and other generic gestures are the norm, personal gifts make the difference. It’s the tongue-in-cheek surprise that receivers of gifts cherish.
Bartenders are the unsung heroes of our social lives and they deserve gifts that reflect their artistry and dedication. Whether it’s a playful accessory that sparks joy or a practical tool that eases their daily grind, give a thoughtful gift to your favorite mixologist.
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