Do All Bars Sell Beer by the Keg or Tap?

Many people have misconceptions about how bars and drinking establishments sell beer. Common questions like ldquo;Do bars sell beer by keg or tap?rdquo; or ldquo;Is beer only served on tap in bars?rdquo; have led to a widespread belief that all bars exclusively sell beer from taps. However, this is not always the case. Letrsquo;s explore the different ways bars and drinking establishments sell beer.

Beer Availability in Bars

Bars, whether they are taprooms, dives, biker hangouts, taverns, or alehouses, do offer beer in various ways. Despite the numerous establishments that I have worked in or owned, none of them sold beer exclusively from kegs. Typically, these bars taprooms sell beer either by the bottle or from the tap into pitchers, mugs, or glasses.

Interestingly, kegs are primarily used in package stores, liquor departments in drug stores, convenience stores, or supermarkets. Kegs are often utilized for take-home sales and consumption at home or privately. This is because the sale is regulated by state or provincial laws, which seldom permit keg sales in public houses where alcohol is sold by the drink and consumed on the premises.

Regulations and Liabilities

The primary reason behind the limited keg sales in bars and drinking establishments is the stringent regulations and associated liabilities. Karaoke establishments, for instance, face significant risks if they were to sell beer by the keg. These risks include potential legal liabilities due to alcohol consumption and public order issues. Furthermore, the additional regulations and licensing fees required for keg sales are quite substantial, making it less practical for establishments to opt for this method.

Neatly balancing the benefits of keg sales with the associated risks and costs, it becomes clear why most bars and drinking establishments prefer serving beer by the bottle or from the tap. This approach ensures that the drinking experience is convenient and enjoyable for patrons, while minimizing the potential legal and financial liabilities for the establishment.

Alternatives and Specialty Bars

However, there are exceptions. Some specialty bars or breweries may have a separate area for keg sales, which is typically located in package stores or liquor departments. These specialty bars often cater to a more specialized customer base and tend to have the necessary licenses and compliance measures in place to handle keg sales.

For example, in some regions, there are designated venues that solely focus on selling beer by the keg. These establishments are usually closely regulated by local authorities, ensuring that all safety and legal standards are met. This separation of traditional bar operations from retail keg sales is a strategic approach taken by many entrepreneurs who wish to cater to keg drinkers without compromising the safety and customer service standards of their premises.

Conclusion

While the majority of bars and drinking establishments opt to sell beer exclusively from taps or bottles, the landscape of beer sales in the hospitality industry is not as rigid as it might seem. Whether it is a traditional bar or a specialty brewery, the choice of how to sell beer ultimately depends on the specific regulations, liabilities, and operational requirements of the establishment. Understanding these nuances is key to appreciating the diversity in how beer is sold in the bar and drinking establishment scene.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are all bars the same in terms of keg and bottle sales?

No, not all bars and drinking establishments are the same. While many prefer to serve beer by the tap or bottle, some specialty bars or breweries may offer both options. The decision often depends on local regulations, licensing requirements, and the specific operational needs of the establishment.

Why do some bars prefer keg sales?

Some specialty bars and breweries opt for keg sales to cater to their specialized customer base. This approach allows them to supply a large volume of beer for private events or consumption at home, while still maintaining a traditional bar atmosphere for on-premises drinking.

What are the risks of serving beer by keg in a bar?

Serving beer by keg poses potential legal liabilities and public order issues, which can be challenging to manage. Additionally, the extra regulations and licensing fees required for keg sales can be a significant burden for most traditional bars, making them less inclined to adopt this practice.