Best Unique Bar Experience (Including small, cocktail, lounge or themed bars)

JUDGING (100% ANONYMOUS SITE INSPECTION)
*ELIGIBLE FOR ENTRY INTO THE AHA NATIONAL AWARDS

JUDGING FUNDS REQUIRED: Funds for drinks and bar snacks for two adults must be provided to cover the cost of judging.

OVERVIEW

This category is for venues which have a bar experience that offers a unique beverage, food and theme. This could be a themed bar within a venue or as a standalone operation i.e., small bar, pop-up portable bar, craft/boutique beer bar, wine or spirit bar whisky, rum, or gin bar, as well as ‘country specific’ bars i.e., Irish bar/Mexican cantina, lounge bar, specific etc.

GENERAL CRITERIA

• Décor and design characteristics
• Condition of furniture, fittings and electrical
• Popularity of venue and alignment to local market

BAR CRITERIA

• Professionalism and outstanding customer service
• Staff neat, clean attired and well groomed
• Bar presentation to be of the highest standard
• Availability of a selection of food
• Comfortable and positive experience for customers
• Beverage experience and offerings (presentation, accuracy, appearance, variety, and quality)
• Hygiene and cleanliness

EXPERIENCE CRITERIA

• Ambience – audio visual, lighting, music
• Staff friendliness and knowledge
• Knowledge and implementation of Responsible Serving of Alcohol
• Efficiency of operations throughout the experience
• Innovative or unique theming/bar design
• Unique beverage and food offering (specials, themed drinks, food in line with bar theme)
• Variety of beverage products available/value for money
• Theming throughout the entire venue/ section

MARKETING CRITERIA

• In-house promotions on offer
• Website – ease of search, use and finding information
• Social Media presence
• Range of promotional products and activities

2024 WINNER – The Underground, The Grand Hotel Newcastle