Looking for the coolest spots in Paris to sip a few unique cocktails?
You could visit one of Paris’ renowned cocktail bars like Experimental Cocktail Club, Moonshiner or Little Red Door. But, we’re on a quest to find the best spots that are a little more under the radar. Impress your friends by taking them off the beaten path.
Here’s a list of The 9 Best Cocktail Bars to visit in Paris in 2022.
1. Arbane
Look hard or you might miss it, Arbane is small but mighty. If it’s not too crowded, the bartenders will chat with you about your flavor preferences and make you a custom cocktail. Arbane is known for their hand-carved ice and delicately colored drinks. The staff is notably friendly and helpful and although the space is compact it feels intimate rather than crowded.
- VISITORS LOVE: the professional craftsmanship of their offerings, which include modern twists on classic cocktails as well as unique, one-of-a-kind options.
- I LOVE: their attention to garnishes. They aren’t an afterthought here. Garnishes are part of the presentation and often elevate the flavor of the drink.
- Average PRICE for a cocktail: about $12 USD
- BE SURE TO TRY: from their Signature Menu the absinthe spiked “Strawberry Fields”, and from their Classic Menu, the “French 75”.
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2. Bisou.
Dream in pink at the charming café-style craft cocktail bar, Bisou. Lit with more hues of pink than you even realized existed, bartenders shake and stir up enchanting pink drinks speckled with gold dust, ombre pink cocktails and creamy pink coupes topped with fresh flowers. Don’t ask for a menu because there isn’t one! Drinks are crafted based on your palate preferences, mood and the season – a true testament to the talent of the mixologists.
- VISITORS LOVE: the imaginative tailor-made drinks, relaxed terrace, enthusiastic staff, Insta-worthy shots and flamingo-centric bathroom.
- I LOVE: their commitment to locally sourced ingredients to create their juices and syrups, as well as their environmentally-conscious manner.
- Average PRICE for a cocktail: about $13 USD
- BE SURE TO TRY: Anything! Arrive with an open mind since the cocktail you order will be specifically tailored to your current craving.
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3. CopperBay
Like an upscale tiki bar, CopperBay is the type of place where you stop in for a drink but end up ordering three. Warm lighting, rope and wood décor along with copper accents and a nautical blue wall makes you feel like you’re sipping cocktails aboard a yacht floating somewhere in the Caribbean. Immaculately garnished drinks are sipped from gold-rimmed coupes. If your lucky, your drink is served in an Easter Island-themed Moai tiki head mug! Guests rave about the atmosphere and appreciate the light and airy diversion from the typical dark, NYC-inspired speakeasies that have gained popularity in Paris.
- VISITORS LOVE: the impressive presentation of each cocktail, the varied drink options and the kind and knowledgeable bartenders. They also deem the incredibly fresh burrata, bathed in olive oil with a spicy finish, the best burrata in all of Paris.
- I LOVE: the menu cards that illustrate the breakdown of the ingredients used in each drink and the foam art (think latte art, but atop foamy cocktails!)
- Average PRICE for a cocktail: about $14 USD
- BE SURE TO TRY: the “Mizuwari” cocktail which features whiskey infused with sesame oil. Otherwise, try the herbal, earthy “Americano”cocktail which is finished with a pine-flavored Greek sparkling water.
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4. Danico
Rising in popularity, fast, is Danico. Hidden behind a velvet curtain at the back of Italian restaurant, Daroco Bourse, Danico feels like a true speakeasy. Inside, the décor is sleek with black and white marble, black wood, angled mirrors, bright mustard yellow bar stools, and velvety mismatched chairs. It’s a swanky vibe fit for casual conversation. Danico is an intimate setting making it better for couples or a pair of friends rather than a large group.
- VISITORS LOVE: the great music, goofy cocktail names, masterfully made drinks and reasonable prices.
- I LOVE: the funky illustrated menu with tasting notes such as “herbal and sour” or “nutty and creamy” so you know what to expect your drink to taste like.
- Average price for a cocktail: about $15 USD
- Be sure to try: the “Blowing on Asparagus” cocktail. Danico’s menu is ever-changing but if you happen to see it offered, and you have an adventurous palate, try it!
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5. Gatsby
Steps from the Champs de Mars, with the Eiffel Tower soaring above, is Gatsby – a retro, 1920s-style speakeasy. Their leather, wood and brick décor and brassy Jazz music will transport you back to the bougie flapper era. Gatsby has something for everyone, including beer, wine and non-alcoholic menus – something not common at serious cocktail bars. It’s difficult to find a coveted bar so close to a massive tourist attraction, but Gatbsy serves up an authentic experience that pleases locals and tourists alike.
- VISITORS LOVE: the Roaring 20s vibe, easygoing bartenders, cheese and charcuterie boards, and the genuinely fun atmosphere.
- I LOVE: the Art Deco designs on the wallpaper, menu and stemware.
- Average PRICE for a cocktail: about $14 USD
- BE SURE TO TRY: the “Cocteau” cocktail, which is a gin-based drink with almond syrup and passionfruit. Another must-try is the “Baker” cocktail which has pureed strawberries and vanilla syrup.
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6. Gravity Bar
Small yet grand, Gravity Bar fits perfectly into its peaceful, romantic neighborhood in the 10th Arrondissement near the tree-lined Canal St. Martin. Upon entering, your attention is grabbed by the wavey, decorative ceiling which morphs into a wall showcasing the bar’s fine liquor collection. Serving up impressively artistic cocktails with quick wit and honest recommendations, Gravity Bar’s staff is something to rave about. Couples and small groups are drawn here for their easily sharable plates and funky cocktail presentations. Arrive early-ish on the weekends to claim your space at the bar before the crowd really takes over.
- VISITORS LOVE: that the bartenders treat you like a usual, even if you aren’t one.
- I LOVE: Chef Ricardo’s Artichoke – which is served as a whole, open artichoke with green beans, mushrooms, hazelnuts, a flavorful, light broth and anchovy-infused mayonnaise.
- Average PRICE for a cocktail: about $14 USD
- BE SURE TO TRY: the “Bush Tucker” cocktail. It gets its Yellow Highlighter color from yellow Chartreuse and yellow beet syrup.
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7. Solera
I’m not sure which drinking vessel at Solera is my favorite – but I’d say my top three favorite are Aladdin’s Lamp, the Louboutin inverted stiletto and the peeled banana. Regardless, Solera is hands-down home to the most fun stemware in all of Paris. A glitzy bar with charming staff and amusing creations make this an easy date spot or a TikToker’s dream. Perhaps a touch gimmicky, Solera offers and uncommon experience that’s sought out by many. That said, definitely make a reservation a head of time!
- VISITORS LOVE: the showmanship for the creation of each cocktail.
- I LOVE: the presentation of the “Cuban Tobacco” cocktail. Open a Cohiba-stamped box and watch the tobacco-scented smoke give way to a rum-based, Old Fashioned-inspired elixir.
- Average PRICE for a cocktail: about $15 USD
- BE SURE TO TRY: either of their most famous elderflower liqueur-based cocktails, the “Mongole Fier” which is served in a mini hot air balloon or the “Artiste” which is served in Aladdin’s Lamp.
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8. L’Ambre Bar
After marveling at the Arc de Triomphe, take a 10-minute walk to L’Ambre Bar for a refreshing cocktail and charcuterie board. A small traditional bar, reminiscent of a 1930s Manhattan waterhole, L’Ambre feels more cozy than cramped. The candlelit ambience and occasional jazz performance contributes to its sophisticated and romantic vibe. The staff is particularly friendly and refreshingly patient with non-French speaking customers.
- VISITORS LOVE: that the music is mellow enough to still hold a conversation.
- I LOVE: that most cocktails are inspired by floral flavors.
- Average PRICE for a cocktail: about $14 USD
- BE SURE TO TRY: the “Rhapsody cocktail which is made with raspberry cream, fresh mint, cranberry and rosé Champagne.
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9. Lulu White Drinking Club
Frequent brass instrument performances add another layer to this sultry club where both sophistication and debauchery twist together into a night of amusement. Maybe it’s the absinthe-laden cocktails, but at Lulu White Drinking Club the energy runs high and the drinks hit hard. The retro vibe of this New Orleans-inspired bar in Montmartre draws a large weekend crowd.
- VISITORS LOVE: the exceptional prices, absinthe menu and knowledgeable staff.
- I LOVE: that the bar’s décor somehow feels very reminiscent of a merry-go-round. I also love that they a classic Grasshopper cocktail. Here’s lookin’ at you, Grandma!
- Average PRICE for a cocktail: about $12 USD
- BE SURE TO TRY: the “Amaretto and Pineapple” as well as the “Lulu White No. 2.”
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What are some of YOUR favorite cocktail bars in Paris? I’d love to hear what makes them a memorable experience!
Not in Paris but still craving fancy cocktails? I’ve got you covered – check out my favorite Cocktail Recipes and shake up your own!
Visiting Paris? Check out my Paris Travel Guide 2022 for all things Paris, including Foodie Favorites like:
What to Eat + Drink in Paris
My Quest for The Best Galette in Paris
Essential Paris Travels Tips:
What to Do in Paris