Whether you're a coffee connoisseur, a tea fiend, or a hot chocolate lover, you'll no doubt have a favorite hot beverage that you can't go a day without. When you love a drink so much, you may put a little extra time and effort into the creation to enjoy it to the fullest. And there's no better way to do this than by setting up your own hot drink station at home.
Enjoying a mug of your favorite hot drink is one of life’s simplest (and more affordable) pleasures. A home tea and coffee bar will allow you to make the most of the small moments and give you that coffee shop feel and aesthetic at home without the price tag. Plus, a new and inviting hot drinks station can encourage you to stay hydrated. While you may think that caffeinated drinks can cause dehydration, research has debunked this myth so you can enjoy your favorite drinks and stay refreshed.
To help you build the most stylish and convenient hot drinks bar, we've put together this handy guide featuring our favorite tea, coffee, and hot chocolate station ideas. Read on to find out everything you need to know about setting up a hot drinks bar, including what to stock, where to put it, and how to decorate it.
What you need for a coffee bar | What you need for a tea station | What you need for a hot cocoa bar | Where to put your bar | Décor ideas and accessories
what you need for a coffee bar.
A home coffee station is no doubt any caffeine lover's dream, and the good news is that it's simple to set a home coffee bar up yourself, especially if you’re able to invest in some key equipment and ingredients. Here are some options that will really bring your coffee station ideas to life, from equipment and ceramics to those extra ingredients that'll take your drink up a notch.
the tools.
There are a number of pieces of kit that will amplify your coffee bar experience to elevate the moment every time, including:
- Cafetière: A cafetière is a good addition for any home coffee station setup. Not only do they allow you to easily make the perfect French press coffee every time, but they also look beautiful in themselves, so they can add a great aesthetic to your coffee station.
- Coffee drippers: Pour-over coffee is top-quality and full of flavor thanks to the long extraction process, so a coffee dripper is perfect for any coffee station. To find out more about pour-over coffee, make sure to check out our coffee dripper FAQs.
- Espresso machine and coffee grinder: You can take things to the next level and feel like a barista by adding an espresso machine to your coffee bar, complete with a group handle to put the ground coffee in and a tamp to press the coffee down.
- Milk frother and thermometer: These are great for milk-based beverages, as they allow you to get the perfect consistency every time for lattes, cappuccinos, cortados, and flat whites. Some espresso machines come with inbuilt steam arms to heat milk, so you won’t need an additional one if you’re already investing in this type of machine. Alternatively, a handheld milk frother makes a cheaper and space-saving alternative, although if you like your milk hot you’ll need to heat it separately. If you’re going all out on your coffee experience, you can even use a thermometer to serve your milk at the right temperature —140°F is ideal.
- Kettle: Hot water is essential for making Americanos.
- Cocktail shaker: While they may seem more at home in a regular bar set-up, cocktail shakers are great for making iced lattes. For the evenings, you can even use one to make a delicious espresso martini.
- Mini fridge and freezer: If you have the space and you’re looking for the ultimate hot drinks station addition, you may be interested in a mini fridge and freezer to keep fresh ingredients nearby, such as milk, whipped cream, and ice.
Aside from these tools, you may also be looking for some beautifully crafted ceramics to serve your beverages in. Mugs are a key staple of any coffee bar. If you want a cohesive and ordered look, it's a good idea to opt for mug sets. If you have more of an eclectic style and you like each product to have a bit of individuality, a selection of hand-decorated mugs may suit your home coffee station better.
Espresso cups are another vital addition to any coffee bar, both for extracting shots and serving in style. You can also include a stylish sugar bowl and serving jug for milk too — it's these small touches that really make all of the difference.
When it comes to storage, it's a good idea to try to make the most of your space. Adding a mug rack is a great way to reserve plenty of preparation space on your counter, plus it can look really stylish. Airtight storage jars are also important, especially for coffee as they will keep the fresh and ground beans in the best condition. And to keep the tools as tidy as possible, you can use a tray to store them to keep everything all in one place.
the ingredients.
You can't have a home coffee station without some top-quality ingredients! Start off by getting your essentials in: coffee beans and milk. If you opt for a machine with a coffee grinder, you can get your beans whole, but otherwise it's easiest to get them already ground. Fortunately, you should be able to find ground beans easily at your local grocery store. But to support local businesses, make sure to check in at your local coffee shop to see if they have any on offer. It's also a good idea to keep a stock of decaf for when you just want a delicious coffee without the buzz.
When it comes to milk, there are a number of different types you can try. Rather than sticking to just dairy, mix it up and try out some plant-based milks. Oat milk adds a delicious and creamy texture to lattes, while coconut milk can add a natural sweetness to your drink.
If you're looking for other ways to add sweetness to your coffee, syrups are a great option. They come in a range of flavors — some of the most popular include vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, cinnamon, and gingerbread. But you can also get more obscure flavors, such as toasted marshmallow, chocolate orange, and lavender. If you're looking for a syrup to just add sweetness but not a strong flavor, then try using gomme (a simple syrup drink sweetener).
For people looking to make the most luxurious coffees out there, cream is a vital ingredient. You can either buy ready-made whipped cream in the shop or whip it up yourself depending on what you fancy. Cinnamon and chocolate dusting powder are a great way to top it off too. And of course, no matter how elaborate the coffee, it isn't complete without a tasty biscuit on the side, so remember to stock up!
what you need for a tea station.
There's nothing better than enjoying a comforting cup of tea after a long day. And if you're looking to make the tea-making process as smooth and stress-free as possible, why not add a tea station to your home? To get started, here are some of the essential tools and ingredients you need to set it up.
the tools.
If you’re looking to make the most out of small moments, the following tea station tools can help you enhance your hot drink.
- Teapot: Of course, no tea station would be complete without a teapot. Not only are they great for brewing a perfect tea, but they can act as statement pieces for your tea station too. Opt for a top-quality, durable teapot that'll last for years to come. And if you have the budget, adding one or two more to your tea station of varying sizes will mean you're prepared for any number of guests and can offer a selection of tea flavors.
- Tea strainer: If you're a loose tea fan, this is an important addition to your tea bar. When the loose-leaf tea is brewed, you place the strainer over your cup to prevent the leaves from falling in.
- Fillable tea bags: For an alternative to a tea strainer, you may prefer to put your loose-leaf tea in fillable tea bags instead, or in an infuser. Multiple options will give you and your guests a choice. Or to make the tea extra special, you can even make your own tea bags.
- Kettle: it goes without saying, but you really can't have a tea station set up without one!
- Thermometer: If you're a tea connoisseur, you'll know that teas have different ideal brewing temperatures. So, to get the most flavor out of each cup, a thermometer will help you find that sweet spot.
- Tea bag bin: To stop you from running back and forth to your main kitchen bin, incorporate a nifty countertop tea bag bin. As well as making your life easier, you can even make it an aesthetic part of your tea station set up by color coordinating it with your teapot and kettle. And by separating your tea bags from the rest of the waste you can put them to good use by using them for compost! Opt for fully compostable tea bags, or cut the bags open and just use the tea if you choose to do this.
You'll also need some high-quality drinkware for your tea station. Enjoy your brew in style with a beautiful set of teacups and saucers. It's a good idea to opt for stoneware, as it's incredibly durable and can last a lifetime if cared for well. And don't forget your teaspoons, sugar bowl, and a small jug for milk too so you can be prepared no matter how your guests take their tea.
Although it may be called a tea station, it isn't all about the tea. You should make sure you're prepared for any accompaniments for the drinks too. It's a good idea to get some small plates in to use for biscuits. And if you want to go all out, get yourself a cake stand. As well as being handy to have on hand for presenting cakes, they can be statement pieces within themselves, and bring a traditional aesthetic to your tea station.
the ingredients.
When it comes to setting up the perfect tea station, choosing the right ingredients is key. It's a good idea to start off with the most important ingredient of them all: the tea. The classic English Breakfast is a must, but there's a wide variety of types to choose from, so why not push the boat out and get a few different types in? One popular tea that's worth keeping in is Earl Grey. The floral, citrusy flavor pairs well with honey and lemon, so it's a good idea to stock these in your tea bar too.
Aside from these two teas, there are a range of types to choose from, with many caffeine-free options that are perfect for relaxing with, including mint, green, chamomile, fruit, Darjeeling, and jasmine. If you’ve not already explored different types of tea, why not get a few? You may even find a new favorite! Many teas come in the option of loose leaf or in tea bags, so try both out and see which you prefer. Whichever you choose, you should make sure to store it in an airtight jar so it keeps its flavor for longer.
Consider stocking a variety of ingredients that can enhance the flavor of the tea too. For an extra hit of sweetness, honey and syrup work very well. Or make fresh tea with mint or ginger — both healthy bases that create a tea full of flavor.
Another ingredient that you can't forget is, of course, milk. Any type of dairy milk tends to go well with tea. If you’re a vegan or simply a fan of plant-based milk, cashew and oat milk are two great options. They both have a relatively neutral flavor, while still adding a lovely creamy texture to the drink. Some plant-based milk brands also offer milks made specially for tea, so you may want to check these out.
Finally, you'll want to stock some tasty teatime treats in your station. Cookies are a classic tea accompaniment, so choose the ones that you enjoy the best. And for a more substantial snack, get some tasty cakes in too — check out our recipes to get some inspiration for your next bake.
what you need for a hot cocoa bar.
Whether you like them luxurious and extravagant, or simple yet delicious, a hot chocolate is always a treat for the tastebuds. So, give them what they deserve by dedicating a hot cocoa station to this delicious drink. Looking for some hot chocolate station ideas? Here are all the tools and ingredients you can use to create the perfect set up.
the tools.
In order to bring your hot chocolate bar ideas to life and make your drinks as delicious as they can be, consider stocking up on the following at your hot chocolate station:
- Milk frother: There's nothing worse than a hot cocoa that's too watery. If you have the space, a milk frother can deliver the perfect texture.
- Chopping board and knives: If your preference is for a drink made with real chocolate, or you think hot chocolate is incomplete without some sprinkled on top, a top-quality chopping board and sharp knives might be something you want to consider. The board can also be used for chopping up add-on ingredients, like nuts or crushed peppermints.
- Chocolate shaker: To top off the drink, a chocolate shaker will provide a light dusting of chocolate powder.
When it comes to heating the milk, you can use either a saucepan or a heated milk frother. The benefit of using a saucepan is that you have more control over the temperature of the drink, so you can easily pour a cup for little ones without worrying about it being too hot. Plus, you can use a handheld milk frother, so you can easily get that perfect texture.
When it comes to serving the hot chocolate, opt for large mugs so you can make your drink as extravagant as possible. You'll also want to think about how to store key ingredients and add-ins. Again, airtight jars are a good option for products that need to be kept as fresh as possible, while small bowls and ramekins are two stylish and practical storage solutions for products that can be kept out in the open. And as extravagant hot chocolates can be messy work, make sure to have some coasters on hand to keep your surfaces clean.
the ingredients.
There are two ways you can make your basic hot chocolate: with milk and cocoa powder or milk and chopped chocolate. The type you make is entirely up to personal preference. If you want the best of both worlds, stock both powder and real chocolate so you can decide what you fancy when it comes to preparing the drink.
It's also good to consider what type of milk you'd enjoy best. All types of dairy milk work well with hot chocolate, but whole milk makes for the creamiest drink. Plant milk works well in hot chocolates too, and you can even use different types to add new flavors. For example, hazelnut and almond milk add a delicious nutty flavor, while coconut milk adds a natural sweetness.
Aside from these essential ingredients, there are numerous add-ins you can incorporate to take your drink to the next level, such as:
- Whipped cream
- Flavored syrups
- Marshmallows
- Cinnamon sticks
- Crushed nuts
- Chocolate chips
- Crushed peppermints
- Crushed cookies
You can really make the drink your own with any of the above additions, or any others that you fancy, so make sure to stock plenty of toppings at your DIY hot chocolate station.
Now you know all about which products you need to set up your home coffee, tea, or hot chocolate bar, the next step is to figure out where to put it.
Where to put your bar
When it comes to choosing the right location for your hot drinks bar, it's important to think both practically and with style in mind. There are a number of factors you need to consider, including where the bar will fit, what resources you need nearby, and where you think it would fit in best aesthetically.
The kitchen seems like an obvious space for the bar — there's a running water source, electricity for the equipment, and it's more than likely going to be where the products are stored to begin with. Plus, there are plenty of great places to set up a kitchen coffee station, such as on a kitchen island, in a walk-in pantry, on an empty countertop, or even on a specially dedicated coffee station table. You can even build a coffee bar cabinet especially for the station if you have the space. If you don't have any counter space but plenty of floor space, you could purchase a drinks cart and set the bar up on there. Opt for a cart with wheels so you can move it around as and when you need to.
If you’re lucky enough to have an outdoor shed with running water and electricity, this makes a great space for a bar. Decked out with comfortable chairs and beautiful décor, this could create the perfect place to retreat to after a long day
Coffee bar ideas for small spaces.
If you live in a cozy home, you may think that you don't have the space for a tea, hot cocoa, or coffee bar. But the good news is that a hot drinks station doesn't have to take up much room at all, as there are a number of coffee bar ideas for small spaces to try out.
Putting a coffee bar in a small home can even be as simple as setting it up on an empty sideboard or countertop in the kitchen or dining room. Using placemats and trays to store your products on is a great idea, as this prevents the space from becoming cluttered, which is the last thing you need for small homes. Plus, the trays can add a lovely decorative touch to the hot drinks bar too.
To save space on your surfaces, try to make the most of shelving. This is a great way to both maximize your space and make the room feel full yet organized. You can keep your storage jars and ingredients on the shelves and save the counter or cabinet space for the bigger pieces of equipment, like an espresso machine or kettle. As well as setting up shelves, install a mug rack to both save space and show off your beautiful drinkware at the same time.
If you have an empty kitchen cupboard, you can put this to use by turning it into a kitchen coffee station or hot drinks bar instead. This also gives you the option to hide the bar away if that's what you'd prefer. But if you'd like to show off the hot drinks station, why not remove the cupboard door and deck it out completely? You can paint the inside an accent color, add new shelving, and completely transform it into a new kitchen statement piece.
It can be difficult for hot drinks fans to choose just one type of home bar. Fortunately, you don't have to do this, even if you have a small home. Simply prioritize the equipment you like the most and make the most of wall space. Even the smallest of home bars can easily fit a cafetière, a teapot, and a kettle on, which is all the main equipment you need for a tea and coffee station.
decorating your hot drinks station.
Once you've got all you need to set up your hot drinks station and you've figured out where to put it, the final step is decorating and accessorizing. There are so many great themes to choose, from traditional to zen to maximalist. When choosing your ideal theme, consider how the bar will fit in with the rest of your interiors, and how it fits in with your personal sense of style. It's best to decorate the bar in a style you really like rather than simply relying on trends, as you'll want to enjoy this bar for years to come.
If you're stuck for inspiration, the following are a few nice touches you can add to your bar, which fit well with a range of themes.
make it cozy with lighting.
A great way to add some atmosphere to your hot chocolate, tea, or coffee bar is by using soft and cozy lighting. String lights and candles will make the bar particularly inviting and will easily become your go-to place to relax in the evening after a long day of work. If you do opt for candles, just remember to store your coffee and tea in airtight containers, as they can absorb the fragrance if left out, affecting the taste.
bring nature to the bar.
Adding a plant or floral centerpiece to the bar works well with a variety of themes, so this is definitely one to consider, if you have the space. A simple yet elegant bouquet in a vase works perfectly with both modern and traditional coffee bars, while one or two small succulent plants can be ideal additions to a zen tea station. Or if you want to try something a little different, you can craft a more extravagant floral centerpiece and display it in a large bowl to make a statement.
consider the color.
Color can have a big impact on the aesthetic of the bar, so it's important to get it right. Try to consider which colors fit well with your theme. For example, neutrals tend to go well with traditional themes, while shades of blue and green can add a lovely calming element to a zen tea station. And if you want to make more of a statement with your hot drinks bar, adding shades of pink into the mix is a great way to do so.
dress it up for the occasion.
Make the most of your bar whenever you're hosting special events by transforming it for the occasion. For example, if you're hosting a boozy brunch you could stock it with some top quality glassware such as champagne glasses to sip mimosas out of. And don't forget to dress it up for the season too. For instance, in autumn you could add seasonal products, such as a leaf wreath of mini pumpkins to the bar, and in the festive period you could create a Christmas hot chocolate station for all the family.
Whether you're looking to set up a hot chocolate, tea, or coffee station, a hot drinks bar will make a great addition to any home. If you want to enjoy your beverage in style, make sure to use the hot cocoa, tea, and coffee station ideas and tips above to set up and decorate your ideal hot drinks bar.
If your new hot drinks set up proves to be a hit, you may be interested in expanding further by creating a second bar for soft and alcoholic drinks. Here at Denby, we have a wide range of glassware, including gin and wine glasses, to get you started. And make sure to read out home bars ideas guide for inspiration.