Hey, Reader!
Between a packed work season and weekends full of sunshine, I’ve been savoring the little things this summer — like finally catching up on the latest season of “The Bear.” I’m taking my time with it because I don’t want it to end.
If you haven’t seen “The Bear,” it’s a brilliant show about a high-end restaurant and the team behind it. Every second, every detail, every dish feels intentional. I highly recommend it.
This show made me think about how much I love that kind of attention to detail when I’m making drinks at home — whether I’m hosting friends or just treating myself.
In the mood to channel some Carmy-level focus and set a Michelin-star mood in your kitchen? Yes, Chef. Here are a few of my current favorite things:
🍸 yes, chef: method meets magic
The tools, prep and little details that make drinks feel five-star:
1️⃣ kitchen tape: Pro kitchens swear by this and it makes your fridge and pantry look so organized! I use this to label everything now: meals, syrups, you name it.
2️⃣ table lights: I first saw these rechargeable lights glowing on restaurant tables and had to have them. They set the mood whether it’s a party or a romantic night in — and they’ve come in clutch more than once during a summer power outage (speaking from experience).
3️⃣ ice designer: Emboss a pattern into your ice cubes for that *chef’s kiss* finish. Subtle and stunning with big “The Bear” vibes.
4️⃣ complete bar set: Professional-grade tools feel good in your hands. I bought this in gold last Prime Day and it's my go-to kit for smooth pours.
5️⃣ salt rimmer: This simple dish makes prepping a cocktail rim feel like mise-en-place magic. Perfect salt or sugar every single time.
6️⃣ clear ice maker: Make pristine, bar-quality cubes at home. It’s the kind of clear ice you’d see on an award-winning craft cocktail menu — because details matter.
7️⃣ cocktail smoker kit: Bring a little drama to your drinks. This adds rich, smoky aroma with that ooh-and-ahh wow-factor finish you’d see at a high-end bar or restaurant.
8️⃣ electric citrus juicer: This powerhouse juices citrus quickly and effortlessly, perfect for batching cocktails or prepping ahead. It’s my favorite kitchen gadget, and I love knowing no fresh juice ever goes to waste.
9️⃣ wine key: This is the same style trusted by sommeliers. With a foil cutter and double hinge, it makes opening wine smooth, simple and satisfying. If you’re more of a beer person (like the chefs), the matching bottle opener from the same brand is just as professional and effective.
🔟 channel knife: That perfect citrus curl? This is how you get it. Finish your drinks with a zesty twist that looks as good as it smells.
These are a few of my favorite tools — things I use and love to make drinks easier, prettier and more fun. If you shop through these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you), which helps support my business. I appreciate you!
Cheers to slow sips, small joys and making every second count. Happy shopping!
Susannah
P.S. Don’t miss my favorite Prime Day deals for your home bar! There are some really good ones this year.
