Best Specialty Bar

* There must be a minimum of three entrants in a category for all entrants to progress to the judging phase.

* Winner is eligible to enter the AHA National Awards 

* Venues nominating in this category will be invoiced to reimburse the cost of judging

This category is designed to find Victoria's best specialty bar. Extra points will be awarded for uniqueness, relevance and consistency throughout the venue assisted by the quality and authenticity of fixtures and fittings

Judges will base their assessment on the following:

Please find judging criteria here.

Bar Specialty Criteria

• Bar is designed and marketed in a particular style
• Theme of the bar relative to the market; Consistency of theme throughout entire venue
• Quality and variety of fixtures and fittings
• Marketing
• Bar presentation of a high standard
• Hygiene and cleanliness of premises
• Popularly patronised
• Comfortable atmosphere for customers
• Atmosphere (lighting, music, ambience)
• Range of promotional products

General Criteria

Beverage

• Excellent variety of wines to include regional, Victorian and interstate wines
• A reasonable variety of wines offered by the glass
• A variety of beers local and imported available
• A variety of non-alcoholic beverages offered
• Wine description to enhance menu

Staff and Service

• Excellent customer service
• Staff presentation and quality of interaction
• Staff knowledge of all products is a must with the ability to suggest food and wine pairings
• Efficiency of order taking, meal delivery, table clearing
• Staff efficiency and ability to be discreet
• Staff well-groomed
• Knowledge of Responsible Service of Alcohol
• Telephone technique

Menu

• Presentation
• Seasonal variation
• Value for money
• Integration of specials

Food

• Relative price
• Presentation, innovation, accuracy & composition of dishes
• Originality, selection & variety of menu
• Quality of dish