1954 Practical Bar Management by Eddie Clarke

PRACTICAL BAR MANAGEMENT

from the main entrance of the hotel, to avoid any fear of clashing with the tone of the establishment. The ingenious restaurateur installs his Cocktail Bar in such a position that his clients must pass through on their way to the dining-room, thereby insuring that they are reminded that an aperitif adds to the enjoyment of the meal. There are some cases where mistakes have been made when siting the bar to achieve that object: be certain thatthe entrance is not directly opposite the main thoroughfare into the restaurant; people invariably gather at the nearest end of the bar, thereby causing a congested bottle neck similar to the turnstiles at a soccer match. The self-contained Cocktail Bar must have prominence of position. Where more complex catering establishments have numerous amenities to attract their customers, the detached bar must derive its success from the reputation it attains as a rendez vous for good drinks with appetizing snacks. It must be accessible from the main points of the district, with a good parking space for cars in close proximity. Entrance to the Bar The entrance should be a feature of importance giving the impression of smartness and welcome to the patron ; so many bars are condemned at the beginning of their careers through having narrow and dingy doorways. An attractive canopy, for example, or window boxes planted with the flowers in season, will do much to improve the appearance of such establishments. With every type of Cocktail Bar one vital point must be considered, its location should be clearly indicated by an adequate number of signs, illuminated if necessary, and be so positioned that they will lead the customer to the entrance rather than just show him where it is. This will also provide assurance that the local inhabitants are no more aware of the existence of the Bar than the stranger who is passing by. The type of entrance door is a matter for consideration. Some prefer the revolving ones, mainly as a method for excluding draughts, but these are sometimes difficult for elderly or infirm persons to manipulate, although this can, of course, be overcome by having an attendant for such service. Others give preference to the heavy glass swing door, which was probably traditionally 8