Best Lighting Products for Bar Design

Best lighting products for bars

What are the best lighting products for commercial bars? Discover the best value lighting picks, including pendant lighting and recessed lighting.


BEST VALUE LIGHTING PRODUCTS FOR BAR DESIGN

When it comes to commercial bar design, nothing makes a finishing statement better than well-selected architectural lighting. Lighting creates intimacy. Nowadays, nearly every type of lighting fixture is available with LED lamps. With near-infinite lamp life, LED lighting is the king of architectural lighting for hotels, bars and restaurants. In order to achieve an effective design, there are a few things to know. LED lighting is directional, so glare can be an issue and for this reason it’s especially effective with up-lighting, recessed can lighting and pendant lighting (which disperse it). Another great application for LED lighting is with edge lighting, as shown in this photo of the bar top by Sensitile Systems.

Photo of bar with a variety of lighting
PHOTO OF BAR WITH A VARIETY OF LIGHTING
Photo of edge-lit LED bar top
PHOTO OF EDGE-LIT LED BAR TOP

DESIGN CRITERIA FOR SELECTING THE PROPER LIGHTING

In your quest to have the best lighting products for your bar design, here are some design criteria you might want to know when purchasing LED lighting:

  • In bar design, architectural lighting is designed for mood.
  • There are many lamps available when purchasing lighting; the ideal lamp for your application should deliver about 20 footcandles at the table top / bar top, as shown in this photometric lighting table.
Photometric table used to select proper lighting effects for the best lighting products for bars
PHOTOMETRIC TABLE USE TO CALCULATE LIGHTING EFFECTS
  • Select the appropriate color temperature for your lamp; 2,000K – 3,000K is known as “Warm White” and imparts a cozy, calm and intimate atmosphere, as depicted in this chart, courtesy of Westinghouse.
  • LED lamp rating is based without dimming; for instance a rating of 100,000 hours of operation could ultimately result in 300,000 hours with dimming controls; furthermore, dimming will enable you to adjust for proper mood.
Color chart depicting various color temperatures available when designing architectural lighting
COLOR TEMPERATURE CHART FOR SELECTING LIGHTING FIXTURES

HIGH-QUALITY LIGHTING PRODUCTS WITH MINIMAL SPECIFICATIONS

When shopping for the best lighting products for bars, there are two paths to follow: 1). True commercial-quality architectural lighting, such as the Targetti recessed fixture (shown below), requires considerable expertise to specify, which is typically done by engineers. 2). Recognizing the need for a simpler approach and a reasonably-priced fixture for everyday people opened the door for companies such as Liton and Con-Tech. These companies offer a range of the most popular lighting styles, but with limited finish options, so the consumer can have a stylish lighting solution with an average fixture price between $100-$200. Comparable commercial fixtures are at least double the price. While Liton and Con-Tech are similarly priced I normally lean towards Con-Tech (photo at right), which has impeccable customer service. Here are some of the favorite lighting products I use in commercial bar design:

Con-Tech Lighting makes some of the best lighting products for bars
HIGH QUALITY LIGHTING BY CON-TECH
Targetti lighting fixtures are among the best lighting products for bars
TARGETTI: A TRUE ARCHITECTURAL LIGHTING FIXTURE

COMMERCIAL LIGHTING SIZES

The majority of commercial lighting products are offered in three sizes: 2″, 4″ and 6″ diameter. The diameter refers to the size of the hole of the lighting trim. To me, the best products for bars are 2″ and 4″ dia. The following are some of my favorite components by Con-Tech Lighting:

  • 2”  lighting products:
    • Remodeling housing (R2RM)
    • Specification grade trim (CST2322L-BLK)
  • 4” lighting products:
    • Remodeling housing (RL20SAR)
    • Pin spot trim (CTR1605)
    • Square baffled trim (CTR1604P)
    • Floating single acrylic ring (CTR4324L-P1AR4); in numerous colors
    • Pendant lighting fixture (CRS8-DQRCD2)
    • Pendant lighting shade (MLA111); other styles and sizes are available

Cut sheets for all the above can be downloaded by click the images below. The above recessed lighting is also available in 6” versions of each product. I prefer 4” lighting for soffits and 2” in backbar areas.

Note that the above lighting must be ordered as two components: a “rough” and a “trim”.

R2RM 2 inch remodeling housing
R2RM 2" HOUSING
Con-Tech Lighting CST2322 2 inch specification grade trim
CST2322L-BLK TRIM
Con-Tech Lighting RL20SAR 4 inch remodeling housing
RL20SAR 4" HOUSING
CTR1605 4 inch pin spot trim
CTR1605 PIN SPOT TRIM
Con-Tech CTR1604P 4 inch square baffled trim
CTR1604P BAFFLED TRIM
CTR4324L-P1AR4 4 inch floating trim ring
CTR4324L FLOATING RING
4 inch pendant lighting fixtures by Con-Tech Lighting are among my top picks for best lighting products for bars
CRS8 PENDANT FIXTURES
MLA111 pendant fixtures
MLA111 PENDANT SHADE

CONCLUSION

For recessed lighting, I prefer remodeling housings over new construction housings in nearly every instance, because they enable the electrician to make field adjustments.

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Designing a bar can be time-consuming and frustrating. Contact us today for your free consultation!
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RICK UZUBELL

President of Cabaret Design Group, Rick holds a degree in mechanical engineering from Purdue University, and is a F&B consultant and well-known bar design expert with years of experience serving hotels, restaurants, sports bars and destination bars. He has developed a command of bar design solutions involving ergonomics, equipment, systems and finishes that bridges the "Gray Zone" between interior designers and architects. He's also a champion of ADA design in commercial bar applications. Through his unique architectural engineering approach he calls "Integrated Bar Design," Rick solves complex bar design challenges beyond the expertise of typical design professionals. His proudest achievements include curved bar design solutions using the modular bar die system and steel as a core design element. As a commercial bar design specialist, Rick has cutting-edge knowledge of draft beer systems, liquor systems, keg room design and batch cocktail systems. He will add significant value to any commercial bar design project. Rick is a proud member of the F&B consortium known as the "Magnificent 7". Additionally, he has authored nearly 100 articles and 80 YouTube videos on the topic of bar design, and these can be found on his Cabaret Design Group website and @bardesigners YouTube channel. Today, Rick's influence extends across the U.S., Canada, and various offshore applications.
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Sam Winer, audio and video specialist for security-integrated food and beverage consulting

Sam Winer

AV + Security Specialist | President,
WinStar Video Security

Sam Winer leads WinStar Video Security with over 20 years of experience designing and installing advanced surveillance, audio, and communications systems for restaurants, bars, and QSR chains. His firm delivers HD, AI-powered security systems, immersive AV experiences, and cellular signal boosting that meets the demands of modern hospitality venues.

From single-unit lounges to high-volume chains, Sam’s work focuses on guest experience, loss prevention, and operational reliability. He’s known for helping operators select the right systems — then install and maintain them for long-term performance.

Sam is a trusted integrator for projects that require technical precision and rock-solid uptime — whether building from scratch, upgrading legacy systems, or opening at scale.

James Farley, structural engineer supporting food and beverage design for commercial hospitality builds

James Farley, PE, SE

Structural Engineer | Owner,
MC Squared, Inc.

James Farley is a licensed structural engineer with deep experience designing commercial buildings across the U.S. He is the owner and principal at MC Squared, Inc., where he leads structural design for a wide range of mid-rise hospitality, retail, and mixed-use projects.

James specializes in turning complex architectural visions into sound, code-compliant structures. His work spans steel, wood, concrete, and hybrid systems — and he’s known for his speed, clarity, and ability to collaborate closely with design teams to support aesthetics without compromising performance.

Licensed in multiple states, including Washington and Arkansas, James plays a vital role in bar and restaurant projects that demand both technical integrity and visual impact.

Garrett Lennon, foodservice design consultant for healthcare, higher ed, and hospitality projects

Garrett Lennon

Design Consultant | President,
JLR Design Group

Garrett Lennon brings over 20 years of experience across foodservice operations, kitchen design, and consulting. As President and Principal of JLR Design Group, he leads projects in hospitality, healthcare, higher education, and institutional environments — where functionality, compliance, and guest satisfaction must align.

With a background in both management and engineering, Garrett excels at bridging frontline realities with technical performance. His team is known for translating operational needs into layouts that perform day after day, year after year.

Whether supporting a hospital kitchen upgrade, a campus dining overhaul, or a high-volume hospitality venue, Garrett focuses on designs that last — clean, compliant, and centered on the user experience.

Dylan Halaszynski, food hall design expert and compliance-driven food and beverage consultant

Dylan Halaszynski

Food Hall Specialist | Founder,
Bayard FSD

Dylan Halaszynski launched Bayard Food Service Design with a singular goal: to bring sharp technical fluency to the complex world of nontraditional foodservice models. His work focuses on unique formats like food halls, shared prep kitchens, and market-style dining — where code compliance and creative layouts must coexist.

With a background in construction management and boutique consulting, Dylan’s superpower is translating regulatory code into efficient, scalable spaces. He’s worked closely with Departments of Health across multiple U.S. jurisdictions and is known for identifying and solving challenges that would stall less experienced teams.

As an FCSI professional, Dylan pairs technical credibility with a next-gen mindset. He’s a go-to strategist for clients exploring urban revitalization projects, hospitality incubators, and unconventional culinary concepts — helping them move quickly, stay compliant, and stand out.

Kevin Moll, hospitality advisor and multi-unit food and beverage consultant

Kevin Moll

Hospitality Advisor | President,
Restaurant Consulting Services

Kevin Moll is a 39-year hospitality veteran, known for his unmatched insight into startup strategy, turnaround planning, and talent acquisition. As President of Restaurant Consulting Services, Inc. and its sister company Restaurant Recruiting Pros, he delivers full-spectrum solutions — from concept to culture.

His operational experience spans World’s Fair-scale foodservice, multi-unit ownership, and high-performance recruiting. He’s been featured on ABC’s Nightline, authored two books, and founded “Mystery Shoppers,” a global brand trusted by operators worldwide.

Kevin blends street-smart practicality with boardroom-level advisory, making him an invaluable partner to entrepreneurs, executives, and investors alike. Whether launching a new brand or revitalizing an underperforming venue, his work bridges hospitality intuition with data-driven execution — unlocking growth where others see obstacles.

Lu Schildmeyer, restaurant and bar design specialist with deep expertise in foodservice facility consulting

Lu Schildmeyer

FCSI Designer | Founder,
LU S Design Associates

Lu Schildmeyer has shaped more than 2,800 hospitality environments across the U.S. and Canada — including over 700 restaurants and 600 bars. With nearly four decades of experience in foodservice facility design, custom stainless steel millwork, and health code compliance, Lu is a trusted specialist for operators who demand technical precision and operational fluidity.

His work spans every segment of the hospitality industry — from boutique bistros to high-volume entertainment venues — where performance, durability, and code alignment must all coexist. Known for practical layouts and forward-thinking BOH integration, Lu brings peace of mind to architects, developers, and chefs who want their kitchens to run as smoothly as their dining rooms.

As an FCSI member, Lu blends aesthetic coordination with engineer-grade accuracy. His shop drawings are regarded as gold standard in foodservice environments, and his ability to anticipate permitting, clearance, and sanitation requirements has saved clients time, risk, and rework at every stage of the build.

Craig Pendleton, food and beverage consultant with a focus on tribal gaming and high-performance dining operations

Craig Pendleton

F & B Consultant | Founder,
National Foodservice Consulting

With more than 50 years in the food and beverage industry, Craig Pendleton brings unmatched operational insight to every project he touches. From national brands to independent operators, his advisory work is grounded in deep experience and a no-nonsense approach to profitability, workflow, and guest experience.

Over the past three decades, Craig has helped launch more than 100 successful venues — including restaurants, casinos, and specialty dining concepts across the U.S. His consulting engagements focus on marrying smart design with real-world management, often bridging the gap between creative vision and operational execution.

Craig’s expertise is especially valued in Tribal gaming environments, where sovereignty, cultural fluency, and long-term sustainability must align. He approaches these partnerships with respect, precision, and a commitment to self-determination — creating foodservice strategies that support community goals while optimizing guest satisfaction and fiscal results.

Colin Addley, global construction strategist and food and beverage consultant for hospitality development

COLIN ADDLEY, MCIOB

Construction Strategist | Founder,
ADDMORE Services

Colin Addley is a Chartered Builder (MCIOB) with over 40 years of experience leading complex construction projects across six continents. His expertise spans construction management, quantity surveying, and international development strategy — particularly in hospitality, resorts, and commercial spaces.

As the founder of ADDMORE Services, Colin works with a global network of professionals he’s personally vetted — including quantity surveyors, site engineers, project managers, and planners — all of whom operate with the same rigor and high-performance mindset. He’s directed projects in the UK, UAE, South Africa, Germany, and North America, earning a reputation for precise execution on fast-moving, high-stakes initiatives.

Whether it’s developing a new food hall in Johannesburg, overseeing a hospitality rollout in the Gulf States, or helping U.S. brands expand overseas, Colin brings logistical clarity and on-the-ground insight to every venture. His work consistently blends old-school project discipline with contemporary collaboration — making him a powerhouse for any project that spans borders, teams, or time zones.

Rick Uzubell, bar design expert and food and beverage consultant specializing in integrated bar systems

Rick Uzubell

Bar Design Expert | Founder,
Cabaret Design Group

Rick Uzubell is a recognized authority in commercial bar design — especially in the elusive “Gray Zone” where architecture, code, and performance intersect. As the creator of Integrated Bar Design, he solves complex spatial and system challenges beyond the reach of typical design professionals.

His signature touches — curved bars, modular steel systems, and ADA-first layouts — have shaped elite projects across the U.S., Canada, and offshore markets. With nearly 100 published articles and over 80 YouTube videos, Rick is a prolific voice for smarter, more profitable bar environments.

Rick’s method blends aesthetic flow with compliance-forward spatial logic — resolving the often-overlooked tensions between building codes, bar efficiency, and guest engagement. His modular steel systems have become a calling card for operators who want high-volume throughput without sacrificing service quality or ADA inclusion.

Beyond design, Rick is a thought leader and educator in the hospitality space. His articles and videos have helped thousands of restaurateurs, architects, and consultants rethink the way bars are built — and how they perform.