Paris, the City of Lights, is renowned for its romantic ambiance and rich history. But did you know that it also boasts an impressive array of cocktail bars, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience? From opulent lounges to intimate hideaways, these bars are destinations in themselves, waiting to be discovered.
1er Arr. (Musée du Louvre/Les Halles): Classic Elegance at Le Meurice
Imagine a grand hotel, steeped in history and frequented by luminaries for centuries. That’s Le Meurice, a Parisian institution. Bar 228, nestled within its walls, embodies the elegance of the past, while offering a modern twist. Step into this former library, redesigned by the renowned Philippe Starck, and prepare to be transported. Sink into deep leather chairs, savor craft cocktails, and indulge in seasonal antipasti. Here, sophistication and style meet, creating a truly unforgettable experience.
2nd Arr. (La Bourse): A Moroccan Escape at the Hoxton
Step into a chic, modern boutique hotel in the heart of the 2nd arrondissement, and you’ll find yourself at the Hoxton, a haven of bohemian style. Ascend an 18th-century spiral staircase and discover Jacques’ Bar, a hidden gem bursting with Moroccan character. This intimate cocktail hideaway is a feast for the senses, adorned with moody floral wallpaper, plush ottomans, and cozy armchairs. The Hoxton itself is a refreshing alternative to the more traditional Parisian hotels, offering a trendy and affordable option for the modern traveler.
2nd Arr. (La Bourse): Experimental Cocktail Club’s Parisian Delights
The creative team behind the groundbreaking Experimental Cocktail Club has brought their vision to Paris, resulting in two spectacular bars. The Shed, perched on the rooftop, offers stunning views of the city center. Meanwhile, The Shell pays tribute to the design preferences of Marie-Antoinette, featuring a giant plaster shell and brass shell sconces. The building itself, dating back to just before the revolution, adds a layer of historical intrigue. These bars are not simply places to grab a drink; they are destinations that redefine the cocktail experience.
16ème Arr. (Trocadéro): Grande Dame of Cocktails at the Shangri-La
Step into the Shangri-La, a grand dame restored to her former glory, and prepare to be dazzled. This opulent hotel boasts an outstanding Cantonese restaurant and two French restaurants serving upscale cuisine in breathtaking settings. From the elegant dining room at L’Abeille to the stunning glass cupola of La Bauhinia, every meal is an event. Even the cocktail bar exudes a subtle Asian influence, with bartenders happy to serve a Pékin Express in this Empire-style lounge.
16th Arr. (Trocadéro): Château Chic at the Saint James
Imagine finding a country-style château nestled within the bustling city of Paris – that’s the Saint James, a freestanding house surrounded by a wall and garden. Inside, Le Bar Bibliothèque embraces the sophistication of its setting, offering a chic space filled with plush couches and deep armchairs, all framed by leather-bound books that give it its name. This bar is the epitome of Parisian elegance, offering a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
8th Arr. (Champs-Élysées/Madeleine): Residential Luxury at Amastan Paris
Amastan Paris is a luxury hotel that eschews the pomp and grandeur of traditional palace hotels, opting for an upscale residential vibe. This ethos extends to Amouk, its cocktail lounge, which spills out into an insulated interior garden just a short walk from the Champs-Elysées. Amouk offers a sophisticated yet relaxed setting, perfect for enjoying a quiet cocktail with friends or a romantic evening drink.
10ème Arr. (Gare de Nord/Gare de l’Est): A World of Flavor at the Sape Bar
On the fringes of Paris’s traditional tourist zones, the Sape Bar embraces a bold and colorful aesthetic, drawing inspiration from Asian and African styling. The bar itself is a visual spectacle, featuring extravagant and flamboyant colors, a striking contrast to the dark flooring and leather armchairs. This bar is a celebration of individuality and a testament to the designers’ willingness to break free from Parisian hotel conventions.
