Paris, the City of Light, is renowned for its vibrant nightlife and sophisticated cocktail bar scene. From hidden speakeasies to world-famous establishments, the French capital offers a diverse array of drinking experiences for locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re seeking a classic Parisian experience or cutting-edge cocktail creations, these top-notch bars have something for everyone.
Candelaria
Tucked away behind an unassuming taqueria façade in the Marais district, Candelaria serves a blend of Mexican and French influences. Candelaria’s skilled bartenders craft innovative cocktails using high-quality spirits and fresh ingredients. The bar also boasts an impressive selection of mezcal and tequila for spirit enthusiasts. Guests can pair their drinks with authentic Mexican tacos and small plates from the front taqueria.
Read More: How to Make Great Tequila Cocktails
The Cambridge Public House
The Cambridge brings a touch of British charm to Paris, a city full of charm!  Don’t be fooled! Although it is Inspired by a classic British pub, you won’t find warm beer here. There is a reason that since opening in 2019, he Cambridge has gone on to win and be nominated for many awards, including Tales of the Cocktail: Top 10 Regional Best New Opening and Bar Magazine’s Bar of the Year in 2019. It is also on No.38 on The World’s 50 Best Bars 2023 list! It has incredible cocktails!
Combat
This fantastic bar is anything but combative! It’s minimalistic, airy and light! Margot Lecarpentier, a winner of Most Influential Bartender at the World’s Best Bar list in 2020 is at the helm. It’s a local fav and the cocktails are approachable, but always with a twist of creativity.
Dirty Lemon
Dirty Lemon is a favorite of mine, having interviewed David Lebovitz, author of Drinking French, there for my podcast. David knows his stuff and he was right on the nose with Dirty Lemon! Although it’s all about Paris-trained chef Ruba Khoury’s food, the cocktails are fantastic and deserve to be on any best cocktail list of Paris.
The Little Red Door
The Little Red Door’s commitment to sustainability is evident in their use of locally sourced ingredients and eco-friendly practices. This dedication to quality and environmental consciousness adds an extra layer of appeal for conscientious drinkers. It has earned its place as #6 on of the 50 Best Bars in the World 2023 and draws cocktail enthusiasts from around the globe.
Read more: The Little Red Door and its commitment to sustainability
Experiment Cocktail Club
No list on Paris cocktails could be complete without The Experimental Cocktail Club, the grand-dame of cocktail bars in the city. The urban myth goes that three friends found this spot in the Montorgueil neighbourhood, built a bar and the rest is history. Make the pilgrimage to the spot that was the first cocktail bar in Paris.
Fréquence
The idea of the record bar finally landed in Paris via Tokyo. You come here for the tunes, but saying that the drinks are not to be missed. Just spend the evening boogieing down and after a few cocktails, you realize the back bar is stuffed full of vinyl, not glass bottles!
Harry’s New York Bar Paris
Another legendary establishment with a rich history dating back to 1911 is Harry’s New York Bar! This iconic watering hole has been a favorite among expatriates, celebrities, and locals alike for over a century. Some of the most famous cocktail were invented here, like the Sidecar and the French 75. The bar remains a must-visit destination for cocktail aficionados and history buffs alike.
Read More: How to Make the Sidecar
Le Syndicat
With the doors closed, you would never know Le Syndicat was there – the doors are covered with posters and graffiti. Once you find the door, you will find only French-made liquors and ingredients. Skilled bartenders craft innovative cocktails using lesser-known regional ingredients. These creative concoctions highlight the versatility of French spirits in modern mixology.
Serpent à Plume
Beyond an unassuming façade in the Marais lies a portal to another world. Serpent à Plume beckons the curious, promising an evening shrouded in enigma. Those who dare to venture past the ordinary bistro front and through a vintage archway find themselves descending into the unknown. What awaits below is a realm where reality bends and expectations dissolve. The cocktails are not as complicated as that description but you get my drift – Serpent à Plume is super different and unmissable.
Don’t Miss: The Best Bars of London’s Soho
Paris is not only the city for great cocktails! Discover the best places to drink in London’s SoHo, plus tips on what to drink at each!