Paris is world-renowned for its art, architecture, and exquisite culinary scene. However, the city’s cocktail culture is equally impressive. With a variety of bars offering everything from classic drinks to modern mixology, Paris is a top destination for cocktail lovers. Whether you seek a historical experience or a speakeasy vibe, the best cocktail bars in Paris have something for everyone.
Let’s explore five of the best cocktail bars in Paris. Each is known for its iconic drinks, creative flair, and unique atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just starting to explore cocktails, these bars will take you on a journey through the vibrant mixology scene of Paris.
Harry’s New York Bar: One of the Best Cocktail Bars in Paris
Harry’s New York Bar has been a central fixture of the Parisian cocktail scene since 1911. Located at 5 Rue Daunou, this legendary bar is famous for its role in the creation of classic cocktails like the Bloody Mary, French 75, and Sidecar. Its rich history and traditional cocktail offerings make it one of the best cocktail bars in Paris.
Why Harry’s is One of the Best Cocktail Bars in Paris for Iconic Cocktails
Harry’s was born from an American influence when Tod Sloan, an American jockey, moved the bar from Manhattan to Paris. Its wood-paneled walls and leather stools give it an old-world charm. Over the years, literary icons such as Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald frequented the bar, adding to its allure.
Signature Drinks: Experience Cocktail History
At Harry’s, you can enjoy the Bloody Mary, a perfect mix of vodka, tomato juice, and spices. Fernand Petiot, one of Harry’s bartenders, invented the drink in the 1920s. Another must-try is the French 75. This cocktail is a blend of gin, lemon juice, sugar, and champagne. The drink strikes a balance between refreshing and elegant. Additionally, for whiskey lovers, the Manhattan is a classic favorite. This cocktail features rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, making it an essential order.
Every drink at Harry’s is crafted with precision. The bartenders maintain the original recipes, ensuring each cocktail captures the essence of its origins.
Passport & Pours Recommendation
To bring the Harry’s experience to your home, make a Classic Martini. Combine 2 oz gin with ½ oz dry vermouth. Stir with ice and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a lemon twist or olive. This simple yet sophisticated cocktail embodies Harry’s timeless spirit.
Little Red Door: One of the Best Cocktail Bars in Paris for Creative Cocktails
Located in the lively Marais district, Little Red Door is a hub of creativity in Paris’s cocktail scene. This bar goes beyond the usual drink offerings. Its art-inspired cocktails and conceptual menus make it one of the best cocktail bars in Paris for those seeking something different.
What Makes Little Red Door One of the Best Cocktail Bars in Paris for Innovation
Entering Little Red Door feels like stepping into a hidden world. Its cozy, dimly lit interior is both welcoming and intimate. The real attraction, however, is the cocktail menu. Each season, the bar introduces a new, themed menu. Past themes have included architecture and emotions, with every drink created as a reflection of these ideas.
Innovative Cocktails That Push Boundaries
Little Red Door’s cocktails are as much about the presentation as they are about flavor. For instance, the Le Corbusier cocktail is inspired by the architect’s clean, modern lines. It combines gin, herbal liqueurs, and citrus. Another favorite, the Concrete Jungle, is a rum-based drink with tropical notes, capturing both urban and exotic flavors.
Additionally, the bar focuses on sustainability by sourcing local ingredients. The bartenders are deeply passionate about their craft. Therefore, they are always eager to guide patrons through the menu and offer personalized recommendations.
Passport & Pours Recommendation
To replicate the creative spirit of Little Red Door at home, try a Negroni Variation. Mix equal parts gin, sweet vermouth, and a herbal liqueur like Chartreuse instead of Campari. This twist on the classic Negroni stays true to the bold flavors the bar is known for, while adding a layer of complexity.
Le Syndicat: One of the Best Cocktail Bars in Paris for French Spirits
Le Syndicat is a unique addition to Paris’s cocktail scene. Located at 51 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis, this bar is hidden behind a graffiti-covered exterior. Despite its modest appearance, it’s one of the best cocktail bars in Paris, focusing entirely on French spirits.
Why Le Syndicat is One of the Best Cocktail Bars in Paris for French-Inspired Cocktails
Le Syndicat’s goal is to celebrate and revive French spirits. Therefore, its cocktails feature ingredients like cognac, Armagnac, and Calvados. These traditional French liquors are reimagined in creative, modern ways. This approach not only supports local producers but also introduces visitors to the richness of French spirit-making traditions.
Bold Cocktails with French Flair
One of the bar’s most popular cocktails is the Serge Gainsbourg, named after the famous French musician. This drink is a bold mix of absinthe, cognac, and herbal liqueurs. The flavors are intense yet perfectly balanced, making it a favorite for those looking to experience something new. Another standout is the French Martini No. 2, which features French vermouths and gin, with a touch of herbal bitters.
Additionally, the bartenders at Le Syndicat are passionate about sharing the stories behind each drink. They go above and beyond to ensure you leave with a greater appreciation of French spirits.
Passport & Pours Recommendation
For a taste of Le Syndicat at home, mix a French Connection. Combine 1 ½ oz cognac with 1 ½ oz amaretto, and serve over ice. Garnish with an orange peel to add a subtle, citrus twist. This cocktail captures the elegance of French spirits, just like Le Syndicat does.
Bar Hemingway at the Ritz: Among the Best Cocktail Bars in Paris for Luxury
For a luxurious cocktail experience, Bar Hemingway at the Ritz Paris is the perfect destination. Named after Ernest Hemingway, one of its most famous patrons, this bar offers a sophisticated atmosphere and classic cocktails. Its reputation for elegance makes it one of the best cocktail bars in Paris for those who appreciate luxury.
Why Bar Hemingway is One of the Best Cocktail Bars in Paris for Classic Cocktails
Legend has it that Hemingway “liberated” the bar from the Nazis during World War II. Today, the bar still exudes the charm of that era, with dark wood paneling, leather chairs, and vintage Hemingway memorabilia adorning the walls. Additionally, the intimate setting feels like stepping into a piece of literary history.
Classic Cocktails with a Twist of Luxury
One of Bar Hemingway’s signature drinks is the Serendipity, a refreshing mix of calvados, mint, apple juice, and champagne. The drink offers a perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors. For those seeking a light, zesty cocktail, the Hemingway Special is an excellent choice. This cocktail combines rum, lime, and grapefruit, a nod to the author’s love for strong yet simple drinks.
Moreover, the Old Fashioned here is exceptional, prepared with high-quality bourbon and served with a large ice cube, allowing you to savor it slowly.
Passport & Pours Recommendation
To bring a bit of Hemingway’s luxury into your home, make a Hemingway Daiquiri. Combine 2 oz white rum, ¾ oz fresh lime juice, ½ oz grapefruit juice, and ¼ oz maraschino liqueur. Shake with ice and strain into a chilled glass. This refreshing cocktail is a tribute to Hemingway’s favorite drink.
Candelaria: One of the Best Hidden Cocktail Bars in Paris
Tucked behind an unmarked door in a taco joint, Candelaria is one of the best hidden cocktail bars in Paris. Located at 52 Rue de Saintonge, this bar is known for its Latin American-inspired cocktails and laid-back, speakeasy vibe.
Why Candelaria is One of the Best Cocktail Bars in Paris for Latin-Inspired Cocktails
Candelaria’s exterior gives little indication of the treasures inside. Entering the bar feels like discovering a secret oasis in the heart of the Marais. The minimalist interior contrasts beautifully with the bold, vibrant flavors of the drinks, offering a unique experience for adventurous drinkers.
Cocktails with a Latin Twist
One of Candelaria’s signature cocktails is the Guadalajara Sling, a smoky mix of tequila, hibiscus, and mezcal. This drink offers a perfect balance between floral and earthy flavors. Additionally, the Paloma, a combination of tequila, grapefruit soda, and lime, is another favorite for those seeking a light, refreshing cocktail.
The bartenders at Candelaria excel at blending Latin flavors with Parisian sophistication. They focus on creating inventive drinks that push boundaries while remaining approachable.
Passport & Pours Recommendation
To recreate Candelaria’s magic at home, try a Smoky Paloma. Mix 2 oz mezcal with ½ oz fresh lime juice and top with grapefruit soda. Serve in a salt-rimmed glass for a refreshing yet bold cocktail that mirrors Candelaria’s style.
A Journey Through the Best Cocktail Bars in Paris
Paris’s cocktail scene is a true reflection of the city’s charm, blending history, creativity, and sophistication. From the iconic drinks crafted at Harry’s New York Bar to the cutting-edge mixology at Little Red Door, these five best cocktail bars in Paris represent the finest the city has to offer. Each venue captures a different facet of Parisian nightlife, whether it’s the timeless elegance of Bar Hemingway, the bold celebration of French spirits at Le Syndicat, or the hidden gem of Latin-inspired cocktails at Candelaria.
Whether you’re drawn to the classics or eager to explore something new, these bars promise a cocktail experience as unforgettable as the city itself. Raise your glass and toast to the magic of Paris—where every sip tells a story.