It may be freezing outside, but ice is a hot topic lately, from ice chewers to custom ice on the bar scene.  As I reported recently, chewing ice is a popular trend among some restaurant patrons, and they tend to prefer the soft nugget ice produced by certain Manitowoc commercial ice machines.

However, a very different trend is also underfoot: commercial ice machines that produce custom ice to suit the bartender’s needs.  Fans of the huge chunks of ice (think baseball-sized in some cases) say that it not only makes for a pleasantly dramatic presentation, but it even makes the drinks taste better.

In the NRN article on the topic, one chef described the ice as looking “like Mount Everest in your glass.”  Unique, right?  You may remember a previous post here on the topic of selling unique experiences; customers will pay well for experiences they will remember.

But giant pieces of ice aren’t the only way to make a lasting impression on your guests.  Stock up on novelty shot glasses and other bar supplies that are a cost-effective way to create an unforgettable experience that your guests will talk about with their friends and come back for again and again.