This bar cart buying guide comes down to four checks: measure where the cart will park, match shelf height to your tallest bottles, pick casters that lock on your floor, and choose a material you are willing to clean. Get those right and styling is the easy part. Below we walk through each check using real specs from carts we sell.
Bar cart buying guide step 1: bar cart dimensions
Measure the spot first: width, then the depth you can give up without pinching traffic. The National Kitchen and Bath Association’s Kitchen Planning Guidelines recommend a walkway of at least 36 in and a work aisle of at least 42 in for one cook. Subtract the cart’s depth and check what is left.
Typical bar cart size falls into three bands:
| Size band | Example from our range | Listed size (W x D x H) |
|---|---|---|
| Compact, about 20 to 28 in wide | 2 tier aluminum cart with glass shelves | 20.1 x 16.1 x 29.9 in |
| Standard, about 30 to 33 in wide | 32 in serving cart with bottle holders | 32.25 x 16 x 36.13 in |
| Large or kitchen island cart, 37 in and up | 42 in rolling kitchen cart with cabinet | 41.75 x 18.9 x 35.25 in |
Also check height if the cart slides under a window sill or floating shelf.
Shelf spacing vs bottle heights
A standard 750 ml wine bottle runs about 11.5 to 13 in tall, and taller hock or flute shapes sit at the top of that range (see our wine bottle dimensions guide for shape by shape figures). Lower shelves need that much clear space plus room to lift bottles out.
Listings rarely give the gap between shelves, ours included, so ask us before ordering or keep tall bottles on top. Built in bottle holders also help: the Benzara 32 in serving bar cart has two bottle holders on a black metal frame with two shelves, and the Vida 38 in serving bar cart adds attached wine bottle holders and a stemware rack to its three wood shelves.
Rails, gallery edges and bottle holders
On a rolling cart, a raised rail, recessed tray or holders keeps bottles from tipping. Flat glass shelves with no lip suit glassware better than full bottles. Recessed trays, like the firwood trays on the Elinsa kitchen bar cart, help on short moves.
Wheels and casters
- Four casters, some locking: the Vida has two braking and two non braking casters, and the Cho 2 tier bar cart lists rolling casters with two locking options. Best for hard floors.
- Two wheels: the Elinsa lists two wheels and curved top handles. Two wheel carts typically tilt onto their wheels to move, and no brakes are listed.
- Handles: the 2 tier rolling bar cart with glass shelves has a handle on each end and weighs 16 lb.
Small casters drag on thick rugs; on tile or hardwood, locks stop a loaded cart drifting.
Materials and care
- Glass and mirror: easy to wipe, shows every ring and fingerprint. The Cho pairs mirrored glass shelves with a clear acrylic frame and chrome tone metal.
- Acrylic: light and modern, but it scratches more easily than glass, so use a soft cloth. The Manya rolling bar cart combines a clear acrylic frame with tempered glass shelves and measures 37.25 x 17.88 x 31 in.
- Metal: iron and steel frames are sturdy. Aluminum, like the 2 tier cart above, is lighter and described as corrosion resistant.
- Wood, melamine and veneer: wipe spills quickly.
- Bamboo and rattan: light; woven surfaces trap dust.
Weight capacity is the spec most bar cart listings leave out, including ours. Until you confirm a figure, spread heavy bottles across shelves and keep the heaviest items low.
What to put on a bar cart
Stock it for drinks you actually make, and leave some open space.
- Top shelf: three to five bottles you use most, an ice bucket, a small tray for mixing.
- Tools: jigger, shaker, bar spoon, strainer, bottle opener, corkscrew.
- Glassware: four to six of one or two styles (rocks and coupe, or wine glasses).
- Mixers and garnishes: bitters, tonic or soda, a cutting board and small knife, a jar of picks.
- Linens: cocktail napkins and a bar towel.
- One personal touch: a small plant or cocktail book.
Bar cart vs kitchen cart (kitchen island cart)
A kitchen island cart is a bigger, heavier piece built for prep and storage. The Benzara 42 in rolling kitchen bar cart has a rubberwood top, a drawer, three open shelves, a cabinet with two adjustable shelves, a towel holder and four locking casters, with a product weight of 67.46 lb. Assembly is required, with instructions and tools included. Pick this style for prep space and closed storage; pick a serving cart for something light to roll out for guests.
Outdoor bar cart: what changes
Most decorative carts are indoor furniture. The NewAge Outdoor Kitchen Classic stainless steel 32 in bar cart belongs to NewAge’s outdoor kitchen line, with a matching black 32 in bar cart cover to protect it between uses. Our listing is light on detail, so call us for the spec sheet. The Elinsa is described as suited to indoor and patio use, but storing it under cover is still wise.
Bar cart vs bar cabinet
A cart shows off bottles and moves where the party is. A cabinet hides clutter, usually holds more and, if it locks, keeps bottles away from kids. If you own more than a dozen bottles, or want glassware dust free, read our wine bar cabinet guide. For dining room storage that doubles as a bar surface, our sideboard vs buffet vs credenza comparison covers the options. If the cart sits near a kitchen island, our counter height vs bar height stools guide helps you match seating.
Prices at a glance
| Cart | Best for | Currently listed at |
|---|---|---|
| Elinsa kitchen bar cart | Small spaces, budget | about $140 |
| 32 in serving bar cart | Bottle holders, locking casters | about $283 |
| 2 tier aluminum glass cart | Light, easy to move | about $550 |
| NewAge stainless 32 in bar cart | Outdoor kitchens | about $550 (cover about $80) |
| 42 in kitchen bar cart | Prep space and storage | about $627 |
| Vida 38 in serving cart | Wine and stemware | about $645 |
| Cho mirrored cart | Glam look | about $645 |
| Manya acrylic cart | Modern, clear look | about $771 |
Prices are at the time of writing. We checked several of these Benzara carts against benzara.com and found the same prices there. Browse every Benzara piece we carry, or start with our guide to buying designer furniture online.
Frequently asked questions
What is a standard bar cart size?
Most of our carts are about 16 to 19 in deep and 30 to 38 in tall, and 20 to 42 in wide.
What should I put on a bar cart?
A few bottles you use often, basic tools, four to six glasses, mixers, napkins and one decorative item.
Can I use an indoor bar cart outside?
Only if the maker says so. For regular patio use, choose an outdoor rated material such as stainless steel and cover it when not in use.
Is a bar cart or a bar cabinet better?
A cart is better for small collections and moving drinks to guests. A cabinet is better for larger collections, hidden storage and keeping bottles out of reach.
Have a spot measured and want help choosing? Call 866-777-2590, Monday to Friday, 9AM to 6PM PST. We offer free freight shipping on orders of $999 or more, and a $200 flat rate below that. See our returns policy before you order.
