Bar Catering NYC: The Ultimate Guide for Weddings, Corporate Events & Private Parties

In a city built on bold flavors, fast service, and unforgettable nights, bar catering in NYC is more than just pouring drinks—it's a performance. Whether you're planning a sleek corporate launch in Midtown, a sunset wedding in Brooklyn, or an intimate dinner party on the Upper West Side, the right bar service transforms your event.

What Sets Green Apple NYC Bar Catering Apart?
Bar service in New York comes with its own unique challenges: strict venue policies, limited elevator access, parking restrictions, and time-sensitive load-ins. Our team understands the flow of NYC events—from SoHo lofts to Central Park tents—because we’ve worked them all.

That local knowledge translates into smoother setup, faster service, and less stress on event day. We customize every package based on your location, headcount, and layout, ensuring every glass is where it needs to be, when it needs to be there.

BAR BEVERAGES SERVICES

20 Guest – 3 Hour Minimum
(prices do not include bar tenders, glassware, tables & table linen etc.)

NON ALCOHOLIC BAR
Assorted sodas, juices & waters
lemons, limes, ice and ice tubs included
$5.00 per guest/per hour
1 bar tender per 100 guests

BEER AND WINE BAR
Imported red and white wines, domestic & imported beers,
assorted sodas, juices & waters
lemons, limes, ice and ice tubs included
First Hour – $19.00 per guest
Each Additional Hour – $10.00 per guest
1 bar tender per 75 guests

FULL BAR SERVICE
serving Absolut vodka, Dewers scotch, Bacardi rum & Beefeater gin
imported red and white wines, domestic & imported beers,
assorted sodas, mixers, juices & waters
includes ice, ice tubs, bar setup, mixers and fruit
First Hour – $25.00 per guest
Each Additional Hour – $14.00 per guest
1 bar tender per 50 guests

PREMIUM BAR SERVICE
serving grey goose, Absolut & Kettle one vodkas, Black label & Dewers scotch, Seagrams 7 & Canadian club ryes, Meyers & Bacardi rums, Tanqueray & Beefeater gins, Cuervo especial tequila, Jack Daniels, Baileys, Galliano, Sambuca, Amaretto and Hennessy cognac
imported red and white wines, assorted beers, sodas and waters
includes ice, ice tubs, bar setup, mixers and fruit
First Hour – $29.00 per guest
Each Additional Hour – $17.00 per guest

Bartender

1 bar tender per 50 guests
Bar tenders ~ $55.00 per hour
5 Hour Minimum (includes setup & breakdown)
Unused beverages property of Gotham Catering
At NY Green Apple, we specialize in full-service bar catering throughout the five boroughs. From curated cocktails and professional staffing to permits and prep, we handle every sip and detail. This guide breaks down everything you need to know when planning your event’s bar.

What Is Full-Service Bar Catering?

Our NYC bar catering goes beyond hiring a bartender. We provide complete bar solutions that include:

• Licensed bartenders and barbacks
• Mixers, garnishes, ice, and bar tools
• Optional alcohol supply or BYOB support
• Glassware or compostable drinkware
• Setup, service, breakdown, and cleanup

We also help with floor planning and guest flow. Learn more with our expert alcohol service planning tips to design a smart and stylish setup.

Bar Packages in NYC: What’s the Price?

Bar packages vary widely depending on the type of service, drink selection, and event size. Whether you're booking a standard open bar, a consumption-based service, or a premium cocktail experience, understanding your options upfront helps you stay on budget.

Explore our full bar package pricing breakdown to compare offerings and see what’s right for your event.

Permits, Coverage & NYC Compliance

One of the biggest differences between NYC bar catering and other markets? The paperwork. You may need temporary permits, venue authorization, and liability coverage depending on where and what you're serving.

Our team handles all compliance so you can focus on your guests. Read our guide on liability insurance for bar catering to understand how we keep you covered.

How Much Alcohol Do You Need?

Overstocking wastes money. Understocking kills momentum. Our planners help you get it right by factoring in guest count, event length, and drink style.

Use our easy alcohol quantity calculator to plan with confidence—whether you're serving beer, wine, or specialty cocktails.

Choosing Glassware for Every Drink

Presentation matters. The right glass elevates aroma, temperature, and the guest experience. We stock a full range of real and compostable options based on your drink list and event style.

See our full breakdown of choosing the right glassware to align each cocktail with the perfect vessel.

Bar Tools & Mobile Equipment Checklist

Our mobile bars are built for NYC venues. From rooftops to ballrooms, we bring what’s needed to operate cleanly and quickly.

Review our bar equipment essentials checklist to see what we use to deliver polished service—no matter the space.

Drink-Making Skills That Scale

Craft cocktails are great—but only if they’re fast and consistent. Our staff is trained in both classics and high-volume batching methods, so you never sacrifice flavor for efficiency.

Check out our approach to practical drink-making techniques that work for 20 or 200 guests.

Top Cocktails for NYC Events

We help clients build menus that reflect the season, guest mix, and vibe. From batched sangrias to signature espresso martinis, the right drink can shape the mood of the evening.

Not sure where to start? Browse our curated list of top cocktails for NYC events to find drinks that everyone will love.

Wine Service & Varietal Selection

Wine remains a staple at weddings, galas, and multi-course dinners. Whether you're offering a basic red and white or a full sommelier-style tasting, we help you choose the right pours.

For tips on pairing wine with food and crowd preferences, visit our wine varietals guide—perfect for first-timers or seasoned hosts alike.

Understanding Liquor Types

When crafting a custom bar menu, knowing the difference between vodka, whiskey, tequila, and rum isn’t just helpful—it’s essential for planning.

Use our liquor types explained guide to align drink selections with guest preferences and budget.

Beer Selection, Storage & Serving

For more casual or large-scale events, beer service is often a must. Whether you're going local or seasonal, we'll help you serve it properly—cold, fresh, and fast.

Want to understand styles and storage best practices? Read our beer styles and serving guide for more info.

Common Bar Terms—Decoded

What's the difference between "neat," "rocks," and "up"? What does “well” liquor mean? NYC guests have high expectations—so clarity matters.

Explore our bar terminology explained page to stay in the know and communicate clearly with your staff or bartender team.

Drink-Making 101: For DIY Hosts

Hosting a smaller party or building a DIY bar for a micro-wedding? We’ve got you covered with techniques anyone can master.

Start with our step-by-step guide to basic drink-making techniques that don’t sacrifice quality for simplicity.

Building a Fully Stocked Bar

The best bars are built for variety, speed, and function. We help you create one with everything you need—and nothing you don’t.

Use our fully stocked bar checklist to prepare your shopping list or confirm what's included in your quote.

Responsible Alcohol Service

Our team is trained in responsible service across all boroughs. From ID checks to managing over-service risks, we help you serve safely—while keeping the vibe intact.

Review our alcohol service policies to understand how we protect both you and your guests.

Let’s Build Your NYC Bar Experience

From small-scale gatherings to city-wide galas, bar catering in NYC takes expertise, energy, and attention to detail. With NY Green Apple, you get a team that knows the venues, the laws, the logistics—and how to pour an unforgettable drink.

Request a quote today and let’s bring your bar to life in style.