Bars are more than just places where drinks are served. They are integral components of the food and beverage (F&B) service industry, offering diverse experiences based on concept, ambience, clientele, and service style. For hotel management students and professionals, understanding the different types of bars is essential not only for theoretical knowledge but also for practical, real-world application.

Whether you’re working in a five-star hotel, managing a cruise ship bar, or launching your own hospitality business, this guide will equip you with detailed insights into the wide spectrum of bar types.

We will cover everything from traditional pubs to cutting-edge rooftop lounges, giving you an edge in both academics and your career.

Quick Overview: Explore the 23 Types of Bars in the Hospitality Industry

This infographic gives you a quick glance at popular, speciality, and emerging bar concepts—from traditional pubs to modern experiential venues.

Infographic listing 23 different types of bars including pubs, lounge bars, cocktail bars, rooftop bars, speakeasies, wine bars, and more, categorized by traditional, themed, and emerging bar concepts for hospitality professionals.

Traditional Bar Types:

1. Public or Front Bars (Pubs)

Photorealistic image of a traditional public bar with hotel-trained staff and guests enjoying drinks in a casual, community-centered setting — *A traditional public bar (pub) featuring uniformed staff and casually dressed guests — highlighting its informal setup, affordability, and role as a social hub in local communities.*

Public bars, commonly known as pubs, are accessible drinking establishments serving the general public. They feature large, open areas where drinks are served over the counter. Pubs often offer affordable types of beverages, including beer, cider, and basic spirits, along with simple food menus. Entertainment such as live sports or music is common. They serve as social hubs for local communities.

Key Features:

Informal ambience with basic furnishings
Affordable pricing and community-focused atmosphere

Example: The Churchill Arms – London. A historic London pub known for its floral exterior and authentic Thai cuisine, offering a casual and community-centred atmosphere.

2. Lounge or Saloon Bars

Photorealistic lounge or saloon bar scene with plush seating, ambient lighting, and hotel staff offering personalized service to relaxed guests. — *A refined lounge bar setting featuring premium drinks, ambient lighting, and personalized service—designed for comfort and relaxation in upscale hospitality environments.*

Lounge bars provide a quieter, more relaxed environment compared to public bars. They are designed for guests seeking comfort and a refined experience. These bars feature comfortable seating and ambient lighting. A selection of premium beverages is typically available. Personalised service enhances the guest experience.

Key Features:

Comfortable seating with ambient lighting
Premium beverage selection and personalised service

Example: The American Bar at The Savoy – London. An iconic cocktail lounge offering a refined setting with ambient lighting and personalized service, perfect for guests seeking comfort and sophistication.

3. Cocktail Bars

Modern cocktail bar with bartenders performing mixology and creative drink presentation. — *A cocktail bar scene showcasing flair bartending and signature drinks in a sleek, upscale setting.*

Cocktail bars specialise in serving a wide variety of mixed drinks and classic cocktails. Bartenders often exhibit high levels of skill, including flair bartending. The decor ranges from elegant to avant-garde. Creative glassware and garnishing are common. These bars cater to urban drinkers and those interested in mixology.

Key Features:

Signature and custom cocktails with high-end ingredients
Creative presentation and skilled bartending

Example: Death & Co – New York. A renowned cocktail bar specialising in innovative mixology and creative drink presentations in a sleek, upscale environment.

4. Club or Nightclub Bars

High-energy nightclub bar with bartenders serving drinks amid music, dancing, and vibrant lighting.” — *A lively nightclub bar scene featuring fast drink service, pulsing music, and a vibrant young crowd.*

Nightclubs feature bars as part of their broader entertainment offerings, including music and dancing. They are characterised by loud music, dance floors, and mood lighting. Strict age and dress codes are often enforced. Bars focus on fast service to accommodate high volume. They attract younger demographics and nightlife enthusiasts.

Key Features:

High-energy environment with music and dancing
Fast-paced bar service catering to large crowds

Example: Omnia Nightclub – Las Vegas. A high-energy nightclub featuring world-class DJs, vibrant lighting, and fast-paced bar service catering to large crowds.

5. Service Bars

Photorealistic image of a hotel service bar with staff preparing drinks in an organized back-of-house area. — *A behind-the-scenes service bar where staff prepare beverages efficiently for seated restaurant or hotel guests.*

Service bars are located in the back-of-house areas of restaurants or hotels. They are used by waitstaff to prepare and deliver drinks to seated guests. These bars are not accessible to customers directly. Efficient layout supports speed and volume. They are integrated with point-of-sale systems.

Key Features:

Staff-only access for efficient drink preparation
Supports quick and organised service flow

Example: The Bar Room at The Modern – New York. A behind-the-scenes service bar where staff efficiently prepare beverages for seated guests in a fine dining setting.

6. Wine Bars

“Upscale wine bar with curated wine selection, sommelier service, and guests enjoying tastings in an elegant setting. — *A refined wine bar offering expert tastings and gourmet snacks in a cozy, upscale environment.*

Wine bars specialise in offering curated selections of wines. They often emphasise wine education through tastings. Light gourmet snacks or tapas are commonly served. Elegant and cosy interiors create a refined atmosphere. They cater to wine aficionados and upscale clientele.

Key Features:

Extensive wine selection with educational tastings
Elegant ambience with light gourmet offerings

7. Minibars

Photorealistic image of a hotel room minibar stocked with drinks and snacks, offering in-room convenience.” — *A modern hotel minibar stocked with premium beverages and snacks, offering guests effortless in-room refreshment*

Minibars are small refrigerated units placed in hotel rooms. They are stocked with premium beverages and snacks, offering guests effortless in-room refreshment and complementing room service options. Modern setups may include automated inventory tracking. Selections often include alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, chocolates, and nuts.

Key Features:

In-room convenience with a variety of refreshments
Automated systems for efficient inventory management

Example: The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo. Experience in-room convenience with a variety of refreshments, including premium beverages and snacks, managed through automated systems.

8. Hotel Bar (The Central Bar)

Photorealistic image of a central hotel bar with bartenders serving drinks to guests in a stylish, welcoming setting. — *The hotel’s main bar, centrally located near guest lounges, offering a full range of drinks for casual or refined interactions.*

The hotel Bar is the primary bar outlet in a hotel that serves as the central location for beverage service. It is typically located near the hotel’s main dining area or guest lounge, offering a wide variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. This bar is open to all hotel guests and often operates throughout the day.

It is designed to be versatile, accommodating both casual and semi-formal guest interactions. The hotel Bar is a key part of the hotel’s food and beverage operations and contributes to the overall guest experience.

Key Features:

Offers cocktails, spirits, wines, beers, mocktails, juices, and hot beverages to suit all guest preferences.
Typically situated in a high-traffic guest area, like near the main restaurant or lounge, maximising accessibility and visibility.

Example: The Bar at Clement – The Peninsula New York. A centrally located hotel bar offering a full range of drinks in a stylish, welcoming setting, accommodating both casual and semi-formal interactions.

Speciality and Themed Bars:

9. Sports Bars

Sports bars are centred around live sporting events. They provide a communal viewing experience with multiple large-screen TV. Game-time food specials and bar games like pool or darts are common. Team-themed decor enhances the sports atmosphere. They attract sports fans, groups of friends, and casual diners.

Key Features:

Multiple screens broadcasting live sports
Interactive games and themed decor

Example: Buffalo Wild Wings – USA. A popular sports bar chain with multiple large-screen TVs, game-day specials, and a lively, communal viewing environment perfect for fans.

10 Rooftop Bars

Rooftop bars are located on the rooftops of buildings or hotels. They offer panoramic views of city skylines or scenic landscapes. Aesthetic appeal is enhanced with stylish decor. Often seasonal, they consider weather conditions. Premium pricing reflects the unique ambience.

Key Features:

Scenic views with stylish and modern design
Exclusive atmosphere with premium offerings

11. Tiki Bars

Tiki bars are Polynesian-inspired venues serving tropical, often rum-based, drinks. They feature bamboo furniture and island-style decor. Drinks like Mai Tais and Piña Coladas are common. Exotic fruits and colourful garnishes enhance the presentation. They offer a playful and relaxed vibe.

Key Features:

Tropical-themed decor with exotic cocktails
Relaxed atmosphere reminiscent of island getaways

Example: Smuggler’s Cove – San Francisco. A renowned tiki bar featuring tropical rum-based cocktails, bamboo décor, and exotic garnishes in a fun, island-inspired ambience.

12. Speakeasies

Speakeasies are modelled after Prohibition-era bars with hidden or secretive entrances. They offer vintage decor and a quiet environment. Menus focus on classic and craft cocktails. Limited seating maintains exclusivity. They appeal to cocktail purists and romantics.

Key Features:

Hidden entrances with vintage, intimate settings
Focus on classic cocktails and exclusivity

Example: PDT (Please Don’t Tell) – New York City. A hidden Prohibition-style speakeasy with vintage decor, classic cocktails, and a secret phone booth entrance inside a hot dog shop.

13. Dive Bars

Dive bars are no-frills, local establishments known for affordability and authenticity. They feature basic drinks at low prices. Interiors are unpretentious and often worn. Cash-only policies are common. They attract loyal, local clientele.

Key Features:

Unpretentious atmosphere with affordable drinks
Strong community presence with regular patrons

14. Karaoke Bars

Karaoke bars are equipped with machines allowing patrons to perform songs. They offer open-mic or private booth experiences. Songbooks and touchscreens facilitate song selection. The atmosphere is fun and participatory. Asian snacks and cocktails are often served.

Key Features:

Interactive entertainment with singing opportunities
Casual setting promoting group participation

14. Karaoke Bars

Example: Sing Sing Karaoke – New York City. Lively karaoke venue offering open mic and private booths, casual food, and fun group entertainment with a laid-back vibe.

15. Jazz Bars

Jazz bars are dedicated to live jazz music performances. They offer an artistic and relaxed environment. Intimate spaces with dim lighting enhance the experience. High-end drinks are typically available with table service. They attract older patrons and music enthusiasts.

Key Features:

Live jazz performances in intimate settings
Sophisticated ambience with premium offerings

Example: The Jazz Showcase – Chicago. An iconic jazz bar presenting live performances in an intimate space with table service and a sophisticated musical atmosphere.

16. Cigar Bars

Cigar bars allow patrons to smoke cigars while enjoying fine spirits. They feature ventilated cigar lounges.
Premium whiskeys, rums, and cognacs are commonly served. Leather chairs and refined atmospheres are typical. They cater to business professionals and cigar aficionados.

Key Features:

Specialised environment for cigar and spirit pairing
Luxurious setting with high-end furnishings

17. Arcade Bars

Arcade bars combine retro arcade games with bar services. They feature vintage games like Pac-Man and pinball.
Craft beers and themed cocktails are served. Bright and lively decor creates a nostalgic atmosphere. They appeal to millennials, gamers, and social groups.

Key Features:

Blend of gaming and drinking in a nostalgic setting
Interactive entertainment with a social focus

Example: Barcade – Brooklyn, NY. A nostalgic arcade bar featuring classic video games and craft beers in a fun, retro setting for gamers and social groups alike.

18. Ice Bars

Ice bars are unique establishments constructed entirely of ice, including walls, seating, and even drinkware.
Maintained at sub-zero temperatures, they offer a novel experience for patrons. Guests are typically provided with thermal clothing to stay warm. Visits are often limited in duration due to the cold environment. These bars are popular tourist attractions in colder regions.

Key Features:

Entirely made of ice, offering a unique ambience
Short-duration visits with provided thermal gear

Example: Icebar – Stockholm, Sweden. A bar made entirely of ice, offering guests sub-zero drinks served in ice glasses while wearing thermal capes in a unique environment.

19. Temperance Bars

Temperance bars serve only non-alcoholic beverages such as mocktails, herbal tonics, or kombucha. They focus on health, wellness, and promoting a sober lifestyle. Often paired with plant-based food options. These bars cater to individuals seeking alcohol-free social environments. They are gaining popularity among wellness-focused clientele.

Key Features:

Alcohol-free menu promoting wellness
Sober socialising environment with health-focused offerings.

Example: Redemption Bar – London. A wellness-focused bar offering alcohol-free cocktails, plant-based dishes, and a serene environment for sober socialising.

20. Biker Bars

Biker bars cater to motorcycle enthusiasts and are often located along highways or popular routes. They feature motorcycle parking and rugged decor. Loud music and an open layout are common characteristics. These bars serve as social hubs for biker groups and road travellers. They offer a casual and unpretentious atmosphere.

Key Features:

Motorcycle-friendly with rugged, open layouts
Casual atmosphere catering to biker communities

Example: Iron Horse Saloon – Daytona Beach, Florida. A legendary biker bar with motorcycle-friendly layouts, live music, and rugged decor, catering to riders and road travellers.

Emerging Trends in Bar Concepts:

21. Experiential Bars

Experiential bars pair drinks with activities like axe throwing, escape rooms, or mini-golf. They offer unique entertainment-focused environments. Themed decor and drinks enhance the immersive experience. These bars emphasise social interaction and group activities. They appeal to young professionals and adventure seekers.

Key Features:

Activity-based entertainment combined with bar services
Immersive themes encouraging social engagement

22. Themed Bars

Themed bars are designed around a central concept such as popular movies, historical periods, or specific cultures. They feature immersive visual environments and staff in costume. Menus are tailored to fit the theme, offering unique cocktails and dishes. These bars attract fandom communities and tourists. They provide a distinctive and memorable experience.

Key Features:

Immersive decor and themed menus
Staff in costume enhance the thematic experience

23. Speciality Spirit Bars

Speciality spirit bars focus exclusively on one category of liquor, such as tequila, gin, rum, or whiskey. They offer extensive selections within their chosen spirit category. Expert staff provide guided tastings and educational events. These bars cater to liquor connoisseurs and enthusiasts. They emphasise the quality and depth of offerings.

Key Features:

Extensive selection within a specific spirit category
Educational experiences with expert guidance

FAQs About Types of Bars

Q1. What is the difference between a lounge and a cocktail bar?

A lounge bar offers a relaxed atmosphere with soft lighting and seating, focusing on comfort. A cocktail bar is more specialised and typically emphasises craft cocktails and mixology.

Q2. Which type of bar is most profitable?

Profitability depends on location and target audience, but cocktail bars and rooftop bars often generate higher margins due to premium pricing.

Q3. What type of bar is ideal for hotels?

Hotels commonly use lounge bars, pool bars, and mini bars to match guest expectations and space constraints. Service bars are also essential for banquet operations.

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Saswata Banerjee

This article was written by Saswata Banerjee, the creator of Food and Beverage Service Knowledge, based on 8+ years of experience in the hospitality industry.