Paris, the City of Lights, is also a haven for cocktail enthusiasts. From historic haunts to modern marvels, the city boasts a captivating array of bars, each with its unique charm and expertly crafted libations. Get ready to embark on a journey through Parisian cocktail culture, where every sip tells a story.
Timeless Elegance: The Lutetia and The Ritz Bar
Step back in time at the Lutetia, a legendary hotel on the Left Bank. This grand establishment, opened in 1910, has witnessed history unfold, welcoming luminaries like Picasso and General de Gaulle. Today, the elegant Bar Joséphine continues to captivate with its Art Deco allure and a menu inspired by the legendary Josephine Baker, who once called the hotel home. Indulge in the “J’ai Deux Amours”, a vodka cocktail with a smoky essence and clarified mango, or the playful “You’re Driving Me Crazy”, a gin concoction with apricot, plum vinegar, chamomile, and Chartreuse.
Across the city, on the prestigious Place Vendôme, lies the iconic Ritz Bar. This legendary establishment has attracted cocktail connoisseurs for generations, with its intimate setting and a legacy steeped in history. It was once known as Le Petit Bar and was a favorite haunt of the celebrated writer, Ernest Hemingway. The bar’s famous mixologist, Colin Field, may have moved on, but his masterful creations live on, like the Serendipity – a delightful blend of Calvados, apple juice, mint, and Champagne. The cozy atmosphere, with its plush chairs and warm wood paneling, invites you to linger in this enchanting space.
Hidden Gems: The Red Door Bar and Combat
Venture into the heart of the Marais, where a mysterious red door guards a secret oasis. This universally acclaimed bar is renowned for its exquisitely crafted cocktails, showcasing the finest French spirits and locally sourced ingredients. Experience the farm-to-glass philosophy with the house whisky sour, enhanced with hops from the Parisian region and cider from the Dupont estate. The intimate speakeasy-style ambiance, with its subdued lighting, fosters conversation at the bar or whispers of romance in the cozy nooks.
In the vibrant Belleville neighborhood, discover Combat, a compact bar with a relaxed atmosphere and a spirit of innovation. Led by the talented Margot Lecarpentier, a rising star in the mixology scene, Combat offers a menu as diverse as it is surprising, constantly evolving with the seasons and the head bartender’s creative inspiration. Be prepared for unique concoctions, such as a cocktail with absinthe, coconut cream, fromage blanc, and lemon, or elixirs infused with CBD. Combat champions a free and feminist approach to mixology, challenging traditional notions of the craft.
A Symphony of Style and Substance: Les Bains Douches, La Candelaria, and Les Ambassadeurs
From a mythical party venue to a chic hotel, Les Bains Douches continues to captivate. The stunning purple, egg-shaped ceiling, set against a black and white checkered floor, adds a touch of mystique to this stylish bar. Here, mixologists clad in leather aprons present delicate creations, drawing inspiration from the Les Bains Guerbois fragrance range, a tribute to the thermal baths that once occupied the space. Embrace the Roxo Gin Tonic, spiced with Timut pepper, or the captivating Stockholm Syndrome, one of the bar’s signature cocktails.
La Candelaria, nestled in the Marais, has become a benchmark for cocktail excellence in Paris. To reach the bar, you must pass through a taqueria, where the aroma of tacos and quesadillas tantalizes your senses. Step through the side door into a welcoming space with white stone walls and soft lighting, showcasing a comprehensive collection of spirits. Indulge in classics like the Guêpe Verte (Green Wasp) – tequila with chilli, cucumber, and coriander – or the Spano – pisco with elderflower and fermented grapes. The bar also offers compelling mocktails, catering to every palate.
The prestigious Hôtel de Crillon on Place de la Concorde houses Les Ambassadeurs, an exceptional bar that embodies French elegance. The opulent décor, with its marble, gilding, and grand mirrors, reflects the grandeur of the 18th century. The drinks, meticulously crafted by the hotel’s mixologists, are just as alluring as the setting. Savor the refreshing Sloe Berry, a modern take on a gin fizz, or the house-made Olive, their signature dirty martini. For those who prefer to abstain, there are alcohol-free versions of nearly every cocktail.
A Parisian Legacy: Harry’s New York Bar
Near the Opéra, Harry’s New York Bar holds a unique place in Parisian history. This American bar, transplanted from New York during Prohibition, introduced Parisians to the art of the cocktail, becoming a pioneer of mixology in France. Harry MacElhone, a Scotsman who later took over the establishment, attracted countless whisky aficionados. Immerse yourself in the bar’s legendary atmosphere and try their Bloody Mary, invented here in 1921, or the Side Car, a classic combination of cognac, triple sec, and lemon juice.
From the grand Parisian hotels to hidden speakeasies, each bar offers a unique experience, showcasing the city’s love for the art of the cocktail. So, raise a glass and explore the vibrant cocktail scene of Paris, where every sip is a testament to the city’s rich history, creativity, and sophisticated spirit.
