Being a coffee drinker, one of the most sacred places in the kitchen is where you prepare your coffee. If you’re looking for must-have coffee bar items, this blog post has them all!
If having your coffee is one of your favorite things about waking up, then this blog post was made for someone like you in mind!
You have to admit it — there’s something relaxing about crafting the perfect cup of coffee in your own space at home. And regardless of the type of bean you like or the brewing method you prefer, having the right tools at home can make all the difference.
From essentials to small upgrades that would make a big impact on your daily coffee routine, we put together a list of the must-have coffee bar items that we think you should have in your space!
And if you’re looking for some cute countertop setups for your coffee, check out this blog post here!
This blog post is all about coffee bar items.
Must-Have Coffee Bar Items
1. Coffee machine
The first and most important item you need for your coffee bar is, of course, a coffee machine! Choosing the right one depends on your morning coffee preferences. Maybe you’re happy with a simple Keurig that uses pre-packed K-cups. Or perhaps you’re more into the coffee-making process and want to explore expert-level options, like a French press. Whatever your style, take your time and explore all the options. You might be surprised how much money you can save by making those lattes at home!
2. Mugs
This might seem like a silly suggestion—of course you already have mugs, right? But if you’re refreshing your coffee bar, you might want mugs that match a certain style or theme so they can double as decor! If you’re in the market for new ones, I recommend the clear mugs linked below. They’re great for hot coffee since they protect your hand from the heat and help keep your drink warm longer.
3. Iced Coffee Cups
If you’re more of an iced coffee person, fun tumblers or glass cups are a must. Iced coffee tastes even better when served in a cute cup. Plus, who doesn’t love the sound of swirling coffee in a glass tumbler? It’s a small joy and a nice part of your morning ritual—another little treat before starting your busy day.
4. Reusable Straws
Now that we’ve talked about iced coffee cups, let’s move on to reusable straws. You can find matching straws and cups online or at your local home goods store. They’re a great way to elevate your coffee aesthetic and reduce waste. Why keep buying plastic straws that end up in landfills when you can save money and help the planet?
5. Mug Holder
You’ve got the mugs—now you need a place to display them! A mug holder isn’t just functional; it can also be a fun piece of decor. Use it to showcase your favorite mugs or tie together a theme, like the ever-popular Friends Central Perk collection.
6. Sweetener
If you’re not a fan of black coffee, sweeteners are essential. Whether it’s sugar or Splenda, you’ll need a container to store it in. Options range from pre-made containers to classic, clear jars. Just make sure whatever you use is airtight—there’s nothing worse than realizing your sweetener has gone stale right when you’re making coffee.
7. Syrups
If you prefer flavored coffee, syrups might be your go-to. Torani is a popular brand, but there are many others to explore. You can leave them in their original bottles, or transfer them to matching containers for a more curated coffee shop vibe.
8. Milks/Creamers
Another must-have: milk or creamer. Whether you prefer almond, oat, or dairy milk—or flavored creamers—there are plenty of choices to fit your style and dietary needs. You can store them in cute containers, but keep in mind that most of these need to be refrigerated. That brings us to the next item…
9. Mini Refrigerator
If you need to keep milk or creamer cold, consider a mini fridge. This might not be a typical item that you would include on a coffee item list, but would be a great addition to your setup if needed. Look into the ones people use for skincare—many of them are compact and perfect for a countertop setup. Of course, you can always use your main fridge, but a mini fridge adds convenience and style to your coffee station.
10. Milk Frother
While we’re on the topic of milk and creamers, a milk frother may be an important item for you to have at your coffee bar. If you’re a big fan of lattes, cappuccinos, or other espresso-based drinks, then this is a great idea for you to have at your coffee station. If you’re unfamiliar with them, milk frothers help transform your milk into a thick, frothy texture that is then added to espresso-based drinks.
11. Coffee Beans & Grounds
This is absolutely the most important item in your coffee bar, especially if you are a person that takes pride in their cup of coffee. If you’re looking for a more fresh-tasting coffee in the morning, coffee beans or grounds should be on your list. There are so many amazing types of coffee that you can choose from. You also need to take roast and bean type and brewing methods when selecting your coffee. This could be a whole blog post in of itself.
But to keep it short, roasts can range from light to dark, while there are four types of beans. Arabic and Robusta are the two most common bean types. There are plenty of popular brewing methods, depending on how much time you want to give to it, such as drip, pour-over, and cold brew. The most important piece of advice is to do your own research! Make sure you find the perfect coffee for you. You can absolutely buy from your local coffee shop, but I’ve heard good things about the places linked below:
12. Coffee Beans & Grounds Containers
If you’re planning on spending the money on coffee beans or grounds, then you should also be prepared to shell out the money for the perfect containers to house them in. Ensure that whatever container that you buy is air-tight. Otherwise, your coffee beans or grounds are basically a waste. When they are exposed to air, it oxidizes them. This basically means that it takes away a lot of the flavor of your favorite coffee.
13. Coffee Grinder
A coffee grinder is basically a necessity if you want to start with coffee beans. Unfortunately, these coffee grinders can be a little on the expensive side, with the lower side being closer to $20. If you’re going to buy one, Burr and Blade are two of the most popular brands to choose from, as well as being on the lower end for people watching their budget. Although it can be an expensive piece, using a coffee grinder brings out all of the nuances of your coffee flavor, making the taste even better.
14. Coffee Pods
Maybe you’re not really into grinding coffee and just want something simple in the morning, like a K-cup. Coffee pods are the perfect option for those who are looking for a quick option to get their coffee fix in. It used to be the case that you may not have a wide array of options like you do when you opt for beans or grounds, but not anymore. Coffee pods have increasingly become one of the most popular ways to drink coffee and with it, the options have increased as well. Depending on your coffee machine, there are more than enough options to find something you love.
15. Utensils
There’s a reason that the header refers to utensils in general as opposed to just spoons because it completely depends on what type of coffee and brewing method that you use for your morning cup. For example, if you’re someone who is planning on using coffee grounds or beans, you should buy some measuring cups to ensure you’re adding the correct amount. Or if you’re into espresso-based drinks, like lattes, a smaller whisk would be a great idea to froth the milk for your coffee if you don’t want to spend the money on a milk frother.
16. Portable Coffee Warmer
This is not a typical item that you would see on most coffee bars, but I will say it can be a lifesaver! Imagine being able to sit down to your coffee and have it whenever you feel like it – or whenever life allows you to have it. Whether you are a parent with younger children or just someone with a busy lifestyle, this allows you to not have to microwave your morning coffee multiple times before you have to drink it.
17. Shelving & Trays
These are not necessarily coffee items, but they are still important pieces of your coffee setup. With all of the parts that can come with a coffee bar setup, it’s very easy for it to get messy and overwhelming. If you’re looking to keep your space more organized, either a tray or a small shelving setup would help. You can never have enough functional decor, and these fit that category.
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