Bar carts are back with a twist, and not just of lemon
Cancel the caroling, say disease experts. It spews respiratory droplets in the air. And no loud music. It makes people shout and spew more droplets. No sitting on Santa’s lap. You don’t know where he’s been. You’ll have to whisper in his ear virtually this year. No parties. No traveling. No Christmas shopping outside the home. No. No. No.
So what can we do this holiday season?
We can drink. (Responsibly, safely and at home, of course, and not necessarily alcohol.)
So far no one has said we can’t raise our glasses and toast, thank goodness, but no clinking. Touching glasses lip to lip is as bad as kissing. Can’t have that!
No wonder liquor sales are up. According to Nielsen’s market data, total alcohol sales outside of bars and restaurants have surged 24% during the pandemic.
If you’re among those planning to have an adult beverage or two this holiday season (yes), or a seasonal drink on the soft side, as your lifestyle columnist, I am obligated to advise you to pour with panache and serve up your sips in style.
Cue the bar cart.
Remember those iconic props of Hollywood’s Golden Age, when films featured debonair men in tuxes and satin-clad women helping their overwrought selves to drinks from the ever-present gilded trolley?
Well, bar carts are back, according to style watchers. However, this time they come with a twist, and not just of lemon.
Today’s carts are serving up a range of beverages — with or without alcohol for all ages and occasions — and they’re doing so with flair, said Vanessa Dina, author of “The Art of the Bar Cart,” published by Chronicle Books, where Dina also works as design director.