Question 1

What is pour cost and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

Pour cost, or beverage cost, is the percentage of a drink's selling price that is spent on its ingredients. It's a critical metric for profitability. A lower pour cost means a higher profit margin on each drink sold. Tracking it helps you price drinks effectively and identify potential waste or theft.

Question 2

How do I calculate the cost of a single spirit pour?

Accepted Answer

To calculate the cost of a single pour, you need to know the cost of the bottle and the size of your pour. The formula is: (Bottle Cost / Milliliters in Bottle) * Milliliters in Pour. For a standard 750ml bottle, you would divide the bottle cost by 750 and then multiply by your pour size in ml (e.g., 45ml for a 1.5 oz shot).

Question 3

What is a good pour cost for a bar?

Accepted Answer

A good pour cost varies by the type of beverage, but a general benchmark for a bar's overall pour cost is between 18% and 24%.Liquor/Cocktails: 18-24%Draft Beer: 15-20%Bottled Beer: 20-25%Wine: 35-45% (due to higher cost and potential spoilage)

Question 4

How can I lower my pour cost without sacrificing quality?

Accepted Answer

Lowering pour cost is about efficiency. You can:Measure Pours: Use jiggers to ensure consistent, accurate pours and prevent over-pouring.Smart Purchasing: Buy in bulk for better pricing on high-volume spirits and mixers.Reduce Waste: Implement proper storage for ingredients and use older stock first (FIFO method).Menu Engineering: Price drinks strategically and feature high-margin cocktails more prominently.

Question 5

Should I include garnishes in my drink cost calculation?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. While the cost of a single lime wedge or cherry may seem small, these costs add up significantly over hundreds or thousands of drinks. Including every component of the drink, from the main spirit down to the garnish, gives you the most accurate pour cost and ensures your pricing covers all expenses.

Drink Cost Calculator

Ingredients

Pricing

Results

Understanding Drink Costs

Frequently Asked Questions

Need Help Optimizing Your Hospitality Business?