The Breakfast Bar

APPETIZERS & COCKTAILS

If you don’t have a lot of space, spread out antipasto and other small bites on a breakfast bar or butcher block. Stack salad or bread-and-butter plates so people can help themselves.

A mix of mismatched plates make it easy for guests to remember whose is whose if they rest them on a side or coffee table.

THE ELEMENTS OF A SIMPLE SPEAKEASY

TRAY AS A BAR

A bar cart isn’t necessary—just use a tray to corral liquor, shakers, and stir sticks.

A few classic mixers to always have on hand: Rose’s Lime Juice, ginger beer, tonic water (in small bottles, so it doesn’t go flat), club soda, bitters.

A MIX OF COCKTAIL GLASSES

Don’t worry if you don’t have complete sets—put out a selection and let guests choose the style they like best.

MISMATCHED SILVER & TONGS

Use a mix of vintage and new silver for hors d’oeuvres.

WEEKEND BREAKFAST

Especially good when you have company, a help-yourself spread is ready whether guests get up early or sleep late.

Lay out stacks of plates, bowls, and mugs the night before, along with cereal, sugar, and jams.

Keep a basket with milk, cream, and butter in the fridge–and leave a notecard explaining where to find things.

WAYS TO MAKE OVERNIGHT GUESTS FEEL AT HOME

COFFEE MAKER & MUGS

A pour-over pot with filters is great for individual cups.

EGG CUPS FOR SERVING

Hardboil eggs the night before and leave them out in pretty cups.

A CONTAINER FOR FLATWARE

Use a mason jar, wide-mouthed glass, or mug to keep knives, forks, and spoons neatly together.

MAKE SURE A COVERED JAR OF FRESHLY GROUND BEANS IS NEARBY.

MIDNIGHT BITES

Late at night is the perfect time for leftovers and a cold drink—the adult version of a bedtime snack. Instead of standing over the sink or eating directly from the take-out box, set up a small spread on the breakfast bar. Put pizza on plates, pour beer into glasses, and use real linens.

Fresh dish towels from the kitchen make great stand-ins for place mats and napkins.

NIGHTTIME SNACK SUPPLIES

pinch BOWLS FOR SEASONING

Fill with salt, Parmesan, or chili flakes.

GLASSES FOR WINE OR BEER

Pour bottled beer into tumblers or stemmed goblets.

SMALL PLATES

Use anything except paper—even fine china.

Soak dishes in the sink before going to bed so cleanup is faster in the morning.