A wet bar is a bar with all of the kitchen and bar luxuries such as running water, a refrigerator, an ice box, a place to prepare food and a beer tap. Wet bars are permanent structures when installed in a patio because of the necessary plumbing and electricity requirements. Wet bars are more expensive to install than other types of patio bars but they do offer the most luxury. Wet bars are ideal for large gatherings and frequent usage.
A dry bar is a versatile bar that offers storage for alcohol, drinks and glasses. Dry bars do not have to be permanent structures because no plumbing or electricity is required. A dry bar offers a place to serve and store drinks at a lower price than the wet bar. Simple home assembly dry bars can be purchased from specialty websites and local home improvement stores for quick installation. A dry bar is ideal for medium gatherings and medium usage.
A drink cart can serve as a small patio bar, offering storage for alcohol, drinks and glasses along with portability. A drink cart is typically a small rolling cabinet three to four feet in height with storage for bar essentials. Drink carts are not permanent structures and can be moved between indoor and outdoor settings. Of all the patio bar options, a drink cart is by far the most cost effective. Drink carts can be purchased from specialty websites and some local department stores. A drink cart is ideal for small gatherings.