Bar Design Pricing: Why We Publish What Others Hide

Square graphic with bold white text on a navy background reading ‘Why We Stopped Hiding Our Prices — And Built a Tool Instead,’ promoting transparency in bar design pricing.

Let’s be honest: trying to find real bar design pricing online is like asking a magician to reveal the trick. Most firms dodge the question entirely, hiding behind vague phrases like “custom quotes” or “tailored solutions.”

But you deserve more — especially if you’re about to make one of the biggest investments of your life.

So we did something different: we published our bar design pricing, built an instant cost estimator, and broke the silence. Here’s why.

Bar Design Pricing and the Power of Radical Transparency

There’s a long-standing belief in design consulting that publishing pricing is bad for business. That clients will get scared off by high numbers, or worse, that competitors will undercut.

In the bar and restaurant world, it’s even murkier. Every project is different. Locations vary, scopes fluctuate, and “it depends” becomes the default answer. And while nuance matters, using it as a shield to avoid transparency serves no one.

The result? Vague expectations. Muddled communication. Clients left wondering whether they can even afford to start.

But here’s the truth: hiding bar design pricing helps no one. It creates mistrust, friction, and hesitation. In a post-COVID world where speed and clarity matter more than ever, we believe there’s a better way.

Infographic on the risks of hiding bar design pricing: builds client skepticism, wastes time, and erodes trust. Created by Cabaret Design Group to support transparent bar design pricing strategy.

🔍 WHAT HIDING PRICES ACTUALLY COSTS

When firms avoid discussing cost, they're not protecting clients — they’re protecting themselves. But that comes at a cost:

  • 🙊 It fuels doubt. Clients wonder what else you’re not sharing.
  • 🙈 It wastes time. Both yours and theirs — especially if the project's not a fit.
  • 🦓 It erodes trust. Serious buyers crave clarity, not mystery.

We lived this firsthand. For years, we hesitated to publish our bar design pricing. It felt too complicated, too risky. We knew our work was worth it — but we didn’t know how to show that without oversimplifying or overwhelming.

Eventually, we realized the silence was doing more damage than disclosure ever could.

Digital graphic showing Cabaret Design Group’s instant bar design pricing estimator tool in use, highlighting transparency and user-friendly project customization.

STUCK ON YOUR BAR DESIGN? CALL US NOW…

The Turning Point: Letting Clients In

Under the mentorship of Marcus Sheridan (famous author of “They Ask, You Answer”) — who taught us that trust begins with teaching — we confronted the pricing dilemma head-on.

Instead of making customers jump through hoops or wait for callbacks, we gave them control. Today, anyone can visit our site and use our instant estimator to get a customized sense of their project’s scope and investment.

No sales pitch. No guesswork. Just a clear, honest starting point.

What Happened When We Pulled Back the Curtain

We expected pushback. Instead, we earned trust.

Our best clients came in even more qualified. Conversations moved faster. People arrived at calls already understanding our value and the typical cost.

It didn’t scare them off — it brought them closer.

Because real decision-makers don’t want smoke and mirrors. They want the facts. And when you respect their time and budget, they show up ready to build something great.

Cabaret Design Group comparison chart displaying four bar design service tiers — Bar Equipment, Standard, Luxury, and Island Design — with prices and included features such as architectural plans and draft beer systems.

How Bar Design Pricing Transparency Changes Everything

This isn’t just about numbers. Transparency around bar design pricing changes the tone of the entire relationship. It says:

  • We trust you with the real information.

     

  • We believe in the value of our work.

     

  • We’re ready to meet you where you are.

     

When you start a conversation with honesty, you’re no longer selling — you’re collaborating.

And in an industry where vision meets volatility, that kind of partnership is rare. It’s also essential.

Want to See What It Might Cost?

If you’re wondering what it would take to design your bar, you don’t have to guess. Try our instant estimator. It takes two minutes. And it might just change how you think about starting this journey.

Transparency isn’t a tactic. It’s a philosophy.

And when you’re designing something this meaningful, it shouldn’t be a guessing game.

We’ll keep leading with clarity. You bring the vision. Let’s build something remarkable together.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does bar design typically cost?
Bar design costs vary based on the size, scope, and location of your project. As shown in the above infographic, our Standard Bar Design starts at $1,999 and goes up depending on customization, and our Luxe Bar Design begins as low as $3,499 and includes many features. You can use our instant estimator to get a personalized estimate in just 2 minutes.

Why do most bar design firms hide their pricing?
Many firms avoid publishing prices because they worry about being undercut or misunderstood. We believe this creates confusion and mistrust. That’s why we built a pricing tool that gives you clarity up front.

Can I really get a bar design estimate online without speaking to anyone?
Yes. Our AI-powered pricing tool gives you a reliable starting point — instantly and without a sales call. It’s designed to help you understand cost and scope before you commit.

What if my project is very unique?
No problem. Our estimator provides a starting range, and we’ll tailor everything to your specific needs once we talk. But this way, you’re never going in blind.

Moody interior of a modern bar with warm lighting, wooden bar stools, and glass shelving — overlaid with the quote “They came in knowing exactly what they wanted — and left knowing exactly what it would cost.

Know what you want?
Let’s make sure you know what it costs.

→ Try the Instant Estimator

Need Help Planning Your restaurant and bar?

From concept to construction, our expert consultants help you plan every step. Book a free discovery call today.
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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.

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Garrett Lennon

Design Consultant | President,
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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,
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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.

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Kevin Moll

Hospitality Advisor | President,
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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.