How to Buy Outdoor Sinks & Bar Centers

Step into the world of outdoor living where every gathering is a celebration, and your backyard transforms into a haven of hospitality. While the allure of glamorous cocktail parties and soirées is undeniable, the key players here are outdoor sinks and bar centers that add a touch of elegance to any outdoor kitchen. Join us on this informative journey to discover the perfect outdoor sink and bar center that seamlessly blends functionality with the beauty of your outdoor space.

What Kind of Sink is Right for Your Outdoor Bar or Kitchen?

Choosing the ideal sink for your outdoor space is very straightforward. Basic kitchen sinks provide good water flow and drainage, while outdoor bar sinks save counter space. Explore outdoor bar centers for a complete bar setup or opt for a versatile utility sink for heavy-duty cleaning.

Outdoor Kitchen Sinks

Often available in single or double basin configurations
Feature large drains that move a lot of water quickly
Great for washing up or filling large pots of water
Tendency to take up a fair amount of counter space

Outdoor bar sink with retractable head installed

Outdoor Bar Sinks

Smaller designs with single basins only
Some offer insulated lining that works perfect for holding ice
Great for washing hands, veggies, and prepping food
Much smaller than kitchen sinks and moves less water

Wet bar set up with ice, drinks, and fruit

Outdoor Wet Bars & Sink Stations

Instantly turns any barbecue island into an outdoor bar
Typically made from durable 304 stainless steel
Will match most outdoor kitchen components
Available features will vary depending on the model

Outdoor Utility Sinks

Designed as a large singular basin
Excellent for cleaning game, fish, or other large foods
Meant for filling large containers or cleaning larger pots
Will take up a significant amount of counter space

Outdoor Sink Styles

When selecting your sink style, there are a few options to consider. Undermount styles tucked beneath the countertop offer a seamless look, whereas drop-in sinks with a rim have a more open feel and farmhouse sinks have a timeless charm. You can also choose a sink that offers the best of both worlds—undermount simplicity or drop-in mix-and-match flair. Your sink can be as unique as your outdoor space.

Undermount Sinks

Hides the sink lip out of sight for a seamless look
Allows you to mix and match different sinks to faucets
Must be added during countertop installation

Overhead view of a drop in sink installed in a bar

Drop-In Sinks

Highly flexible countertop placement
No brackets or mounting gear to deal with
Consider the necessary drainage pipes and vertical supports

Large farmhouse sink extended past the counter

Farmhouse Sinks

Also known as “apron sinks”
Eye-catching design, perfect for large loads
Required to sit flush with front edge of the island

Dual-mount stainless steel sink installed in a stone countertop

Dual-Mount Sinks

Available in single or double basin designs
Come in a variety of materials, sizes, and finish options
The mounting style will dictate faucet requirements

Outdoor Faucet Styles

Shiny stainless steel cast spout sink with glasses surrounding it

Cast-Spout Faucets

Sometimes known as “gooseneck faucets”, these are usually cast from metals such as stainless steel or brass with designs that incorporate a high arch spout, which often swivels from side to side, making them a great option for use in double basin sinks. Some manufacturers include a deck-mounted pull-out sprayer with separate attached cast spout faucet.

Dual-basin sink with a pre-rinse spout attached

Pre-Rinse Faucets

Similar in style to a restaurant industrial dishwashing sprayer, these faucets are designed very tall, often with a spring-held hose for incredible maneuverability. Featuring a wide spout arc, high spray force, and multiple strength settings, these are perfect for large sinks full of dishes and pots.

Pot filling faucet over a large stock pot

Pot-Filler Faucets

These faucets are a convenient choice when faced with cleaning a large pot in a small sink. Comprised of swivel-jointed segments that expand or collapse to reach across your countertop, pot-fillers “unfold” to fit generously sized cookware and should be a consideration in any kitchen with limited space.

Pull-down faucet installed in an outdoor countertop

Pull-Down Faucets

Pull-down faucets expand into spiraled hoses during use and retract into a virtually seamless, single piece. Featuring adjustable spray intensities and varying length for your needs, these faucets work as good as they look.

Outdoor Sink & Faucet Materials

Let’s take a look at the diverse materials that contribute to the functionality and style of outdoor sinks and faucets. Stainless steel is a classic choice that offers durability and resistance to various elements. On the other hand, brass faucets resist rust and corrosion, making them a solid alternative.

Stainless Steel Sinks & Faucets

Complements other stainless steel in your kitchen island
Cleans like a dream with just a hot, soapy sponge
304 stainless steel is unparalleled for outdoor longevity
Will need to be cleaned often to prevent steel from discoloring

Shop Stainless Steel Sinks & Faucets

Brass Faucets

Excellent faucet material overall
Another solid option for older aesthetics
Highly similar to copper in anti-rusting properties
Brass patina is not a popular design choice

Shop Brass Faucets

Outdoor Bar Accessories

Sinks or bar centers alone aren’t a complete outdoor bar. There are many other essential appliances to add—such as refrigeration appliances, storage components, and a host of accessories meant to turn any outdoor island into a fully stocked barroom.

Ice Bin Coolers

Who wouldn’t want an enormous ice bucket to prepare for happy hour? Drop-in insulated coolers allow you to store ice or keep your beverages cool in your outdoor kitchen. Complete with a central drain for water removal, it’s even handy for storing those extra cocktail glasses.

Sink with speed rail attached to the front with drinks in it

Speed Rails & Bottle Openers

Keep the best liquors a pour away with a speed rail hanging off your ice bin cooler. These are a must-have for mixology enthusiasts, keeping mixers or liquors nearby while being your very own backyard bartender.

Built-In Blender Station

An outdoor blender station is a game-changer for any bar. This puts frozen drinks at your fingertips: margaritas, pina coladas, slushes, you name it. Now your outdoor kitchen is ready for anything.

Tall outdoor bar table and bar chairs with cushions

Outdoor Bar Furniture

All the best bars have someplace to relax so your bar should too. What better finishing touch is there for any outdoor saloon than luxurious outdoor bar furniture? It’ll make all the difference to your speakeasy’s final look.

How Do You Run Hot Water to an Outdoor Sink?

When it comes to ensuring your outdoor sink delivers warm water, a hot water strategy is essential. Connecting to the interior hot water line is a straightforward solution, provided it's well-insulated. Alternatively, installing a small, dedicated water heater is a practical consideration, best addressed by a licensed plumber.

Need help choosing the best bar equipment? Our talented outdoor living experts are standing by. Give them a call at (877) 743-2269 to get more information on all things outdoor sinks and more.

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How to Buy Outdoor Kitchen Sinks & Bar Centers