Definition

Noun: A bar, typically at a private event like a wedding or party, where guests must pay for their own drinks, as opposed to having them provided for free by the host.

Usage

A "cash bar" is a specific setup at an event. The term is used to inform guests that beverages are not complimentary and that they will need to pay if they wish to drink. It is often mentioned on invitations or announced at the event itself.

Examples

• The invitation stated it would be a cash bar, so I made sure to bring my wallet.
• At the wedding reception, most guests congregated around the cash bar.
• To keep costs down, the organizers decided to have a cash bar instead of an open bar.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in contrast to an "open bar" (where drinks are paid for by the host and free for guests) or a "hosted bar" (similar to an open bar, where the host covers the cost for a limited time or selection).
• It can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation, implying the host is not providing full hospitality, though it is a common and practical choice for many events.

Variants and Related Words

• No-host bar: A less common synonym for "cash bar," primarily used in some regional dialects.
• Open bar: The direct opposite of a cash bar.

Synonyms

• Pay bar
• No-host bar

Related Phrases

• Cash or card?: A common question asked by bartenders at a cash bar to determine the method of payment.
• To run a cash bar: To operate or manage a cash bar at an event.
  • Example: They hired a local company to run the cash bar.

Noun

1. a counter at a large party where you can purchase drinks by the glass