Sip & Savor: 8 Must-visit Cocktail Bars in Paris

If you’re searching for the Best Cocktail Bars in Paris, this guide is for you. The top spots aren’t easy to find—you don’t just stumble upon them. Too often, you might end up with an average mojito instead of something truly special.

My husband, Laurent, is a Rum and Spirits Expert with years of experience as a podcaster, author, journalist, and jury member for several French Spirit Awards.

Together, we love exploring the cocktail bars in Paris and discovering the hidden gems that offer a perfect mix of atmosphere and exceptional drinks.

With our combined expertise, we’ve put together this guide to help you navigate the Paris cocktail scene and find the best bars the city has to offer.

Salut, I am Lena – travel planning expert and parisienne since 2006 🩷

If you purchase through links on this site, I may earn – at no cost to you – a small commission. This helps me cover my costs and keep my website running. Thank you so much for your support 🙂 Learn more

The image shows a bartender's hands squeezing a citrus peel over a glass of a red cocktail, likely to release its aromatic oils. The glass sits on a wooden bar, and the scene is dimly lit, highlighting the vibrant color of the drink and the action of the bartender. The image captures a moment of craft in cocktail preparation. — Finishing Touch

The best Cocktail Bars in Paris: Our Favorites

While there are countless cool bars in Paris, these are the ones that truly stood out to us. This list isn’t exhaustive, but these are the spots that left a lasting impression and are well worth a visit.

So whether you’re after classic cocktails or more adventurous mixes, the best cocktails in Paris are waiting to be discovered.

#1 Danico

➤ 6 Rue Vivienne, 75002 Paris

Danico, tucked away behind the Italian restaurant Daroco in the charming Galeries Vivienne, is a hidden gem worth seeking out. The cocktail menu, which changes every six months, always draws inspiration from a specific country—past themes have included Mexico, Japan, and Bali.

Currently, ranked 51st on the list of the world’s best bars, Danico is known for its creative mixology and stylish atmosphere. It has been one of our favorite bars in Paris, and is our go-to address.

Tip: They don’t take reservations, so when you arrive, be sure to tell the staff at the door that you’re heading to Danico. Otherwise, you might be stuck waiting for a table at Daroco instead, which, by the way, is a great spot too.

The image shows a stylish and modern Cocktail BAr in Paris interior with a sophisticated design. The bar features a sleek black-and-white marble counter with a geometric pattern, surrounded by plush, dark green velvet chairs. The back of the bar is lined with a mirrored wall, reflecting an extensive collection of spirits neatly arranged on glass shelves. Warm lighting, soft drapery, and contemporary decor elements complete the chic and inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a refined cocktail experience. — If you would rather not enter through the restaurant, you also can take a shortcut through the Galerie Vivienne

#2 Le Syndicat

➤ 51 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis, 75010 Paris

Le Syndicat is one of those places you could easily walk past without noticing, tucked away on the buzzing rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis.

There’s no flashy sign, just a low-key facade that blends right in. In summer, the simple tables and benches outside give you a clue. But at other times? You need to know what you’re looking for.

But when it comes to mixology in Paris, this place is a standout. Inside, it’s all about the cocktails—nothing too fancy about the decor, but that’s not the point. The real magic is in the drinks.

The team here is all about championing French spirits, and they nail it every time. They’re serious about keeping it sítio too, using only French ingredients—wine, fruits, cheese, you name it. It’s crafted with a level of skill that’s hard to find.

Le Syndicat easily ranks among the coolest bars in Paris with its focus on French spirits and it’s hidden and low-key appearance.

The image is a split view showing two contrasting aspects of Le Syndicat, a hidden gem on rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis in Paris. On the left, the exterior is intentionally unassuming, blending into the urban landscape with a wall covered in colorful posters and peeling paint—easy to miss if you don’t know what you’re looking for. On the right, the interior reveals a cozy, dimly lit space with simple tables and chairs set against a gold quilted wall, bearing the bar's name and its mission to promote French spirits. — The Syndicat is not easy to spot from the outside- Photos used with permission from Le Syndicat

The image shows a bartender's hand carefully placing a decorative ice disk into a cocktail glass filled with a clear, amber-colored drink. The scene is set in a stylish bar environment, with various bar tools, bottles, and ingredients subtly visible in the background. The focus is on the craftsmanship and precision of the bartender, emphasizing the attention to detail in cocktail preparation. The ice disk, likely infused with herbs or edible glitter, adds an artistic and elevated touch to the drink, highlighting the bar’s dedication to both aesthetics and quality. — cocktails at Le Syndicat – Photos used with permission from Le Syndicat

#3 Dirty Dick

➤ 10 Rue Frochot, 75009 Paris

Dirty Dick has been a go-to spot in Pigalle for almost ten years now, offering up a fun and easygoing Tiki bar vibe. It’s all about those tropical touches, from the Hawaiian shirts to the colorful Polynesian decor.

The drinks are classic Tiki fare—think Pain Killer, Zombie, and Mai Tai—fruity and strong, just the way you’d want them.

Lately, they’ve mixed things up a bit with new cocktails created by their bartenders, keeping the menu fresh.

And the bartenders don’t just make drinks—they put on a bit of a show, with sparks and flames adding to the whole experience. It’s the perfect place for a fun, relaxed, tropical escape right in the middle of Paris.

The image showcases two vibrant cocktails served at a bar, each adorned with fresh mint leaves and garnishes. The drink on the left is a tall pink cocktail, garnished with a large sprig of mint and a leaf, likely a tropical or fruity concoction. The drink on the right is a frosty green cocktail served in a rounded glass, also topped with mint and a slice of pineapple, hinting at a refreshing, possibly herbal or tropical flavor. The drinks are beautifully presented, with the fresh garnishes adding a pop of color and flair, making them as visually appealing as they are likely delicious. The ambiance in the background suggests a cozy, dimly lit bar setting, perfect for enjoying these crafted beverages.

#4 Le Bar 1802

➤ 22 Rue Pascal, 75005 Paris

Le Bar 1802, located on the ground floor of the Hotel Monte Cristo, is a must-visit for any rum enthusiast—and as a rum lover, it’s one of Laurent’s absolute favorites.

This cozy, beautifully decorated bar focuses on one star ingredient: rum. In fact, it’s the largest rum bar in France, boasting over 1,000 different sugarcane spirits.

The cocktail menu is just as impressive, pairing various rum origins with complementary flavors like Cuban rum with coffee, Jamaican rum with banana, and Nicaraguan rum with tobacco.

If you’re not in the mood for a cocktail, you can also enjoy a rum tasting and explore their vast collection. The expertise of the team behind the bar is outstanding, both in cocktails and rum. They can guide you through a nice tasting that will make you travel through the world of rum.

Tip: Don’t miss the restaurant across the street, Le Grand Dictionnaire. It’s part of the same establishment and is absolutely fantastic.

The image is a split view showcasing two distinct scenes. On the left, a selection of craft cocktails is presented on a round brass table. The drinks are elegantly served in clear glassware, each uniquely garnished with elements like dried flowers, citrus peel, and decorative ice, highlighting the creativity and attention to detail in their preparation. The drinks have a refined and minimalist aesthetic, suggesting a focus on quality ingredients and sophisticated flavors.

On the right, the image depicts a cozy and eclectic bar interior. The space features velvet chairs in deep teal, lush greenery, a vintage globe, and framed art on dark walls, creating an intimate and stylish atmosphere. The decor combines mid-century modern elements with a touch of old-world charm, making it an inviting space to enjoy a well-crafted cocktail. — Bar 1802—beautiful interno and excellent drinks. Photo Credit: *Agence WEBCOM*

#5 Le Mary Céleste

➤ 1 rue Commines, 75003 Paris

Le Mary Céleste isn’t exactly a cocktail bar. It’s rather an upscale neighborhood spot in the Marias, with a lively atmosphere, consistently good cocktails and an excellent wine selection. It’s perfect for when you want quality cocktails paired with tasty nibbles.

Their menu features delicious small plates—trust me, you have to try the deviled eggs! And depending on the season, you’ll also find here fresh oysters and seafood.

The bar is always buzzing, with a laid-back yet energetic, and a crowd that often includes a surprising number of Americans (not sure why, but everyone speaks English).

With its welcoming vibe, good food, and top-notch drinks, it’s easy to see why Le Mary Céleste is one of Lena’s favorite bars in Paris.

The image captures a delightful scene at a bustling bar or bistro, where a variety of small plates and cocktails are beautifully arranged on the counter. In the foreground, a dish featuring what appears to be deviled eggs topped with fresh greens and toasted seeds is presented next to a bowl of bright and colorful vegetable salad garnished with herbs. A rustic bowl of artisanal bread accompanies the dishes. Two cocktails—one in a short glass with a lemon twist and another in a coupe glass with a rich amber liquid—complete the setting. The background shows bartenders and kitchen staff at work, adding to the lively and vibrant atmosphere of the venue. The scene conveys a sense of casual elegance, with attention to detail in both the food and drink presentations. — I can still taste it (even though we were not sure at first if it’s popped rice or fried insects)

#6 Fréquence

➤ 20 rue Keller, 75011 Paris

Bar Fréquence is a unique spot in Paris that combines expertly crafted cocktails with a love for vinyl records. The bartenders here are true artists, mixing up creative drinks that are as impressive in flavor as they are in presentation.

The cocktail menu is carefully curated, featuring both classic and inventive options, all made with high-quality ingredients. As you sip your drink, you’ll be treated to a constant stream of vinyl tunes, adding a nostalgic and relaxed vibe to the atmosphere.

In addition to the great cocktails, Bar Fréquence also offers a sophisticated selection of food, making it a perfect spot for a casual evening out.

The image shows two tall cocktails served on a bar counter, each presented with a unique garnish. The cocktail on the left is a golden-brown drink with a large ice cube and a garnish of a small green leaf, possibly pineapple or similar. The cocktail on the right is a light yellow drink garnished with a small flower and a sprig of herbs, adding a delicate and decorative touch. The background reveals a cozy, intimate setting, likely a bar or lounge, with shelves filled with vinyl records, suggesting a music-themed or retro vibe. The overall atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for enjoying these beautifully crafted drinks. — Fréquence – one of the cool Cocktail Bars in Paris

#7 Talaé

➤ 29 Rue de l’Arcade, 75008 Paris

Talaé is our latest discovery, and it’s truly something else—unlike anything we’ve experienced before.

Tucked away in a small passage near La Madeleine, this hidden gem belongs to a hotel, adding to its exclusive feel. The bar’s modern, stylish interno makes it an inviting spot to unwind, and they offer delicious snacks that pair perfectly with the cocktails.

What really sets Talaé apart, though, is its cocktail menu. Instead of listing ingredients, it offers a series of associations and hints about the drink’s strength. The trick? These associations have absolutely nothing to do with the moderno ingredients, yet they capture the essence of the drink perfectly.

The creativity here is on another level—they use unexpected elements like distilled water that olives are marinated in, bubbly infused soy milk, and I believe I even heard the word “anchovy”. Their non-alcoholic drinks are not less creative, by the way.

It’s an absolute delightful adventure for your taste buds. If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, Talaé is a must-visit.

Talaé is a Botanic Cocktail Bar with a zero waste policy and sítio & seasonal ingredients

#8 Candelaria

➤ 52 rue de Saintonge, 75003 Paris

Candelaria is a hidden gem that blends Mexican flavors with a secretive twist. Because from the outside, it looks like a simple taco joint!

Cause here’s the thing: Candelaria is actually a speakeasy bar, that is tucked away in the back of the restaurant. So if this is your first time at a speakeasy, it might take a bit of courage to walk straight through the taco spot.

The bar itself is small and intimate, with dim lighting and a cozy atmosphere that makes it feel like you’ve left Paris behind. Candelaria is the kind of cocktail bar in Paris that surprises you with its hidden charm and quality drinks.

The cocktails focus heavily on mezcal and tequila, true to the bar’s Mexican roots. If cocktails aren’t your thing, they also offer a wide selection of tequilas and mezcals to try on their own.

And if you’re hungry, you can order tacos from the front to enjoy with your drink.

The image features a close-up of a cocktail in a lowball glass filled with large, clear ice cubes. The drink is a warm amber color, with bubbles clinging to the sides of the glass, suggesting a carbonated element. The setting is dimly lit, with a soft, golden glow from the background, creating an intimate and cozy atmosphere. The blurred figures and bar shelves in the background enhance the focus on the drink, making it the central element of the scene. This image captures the essence of a sophisticated night out, with attention to detail in both the drink and the ambiance. — Cocktail in Candelaria

Et voilà, these are our favorites and if you are looking for some of the best cocktails in Paris, these are the perfect addresses to start with.

For more ideas on what to do in Paris at night, also check out these posts:

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Sip & Savor: 8 Must-visit Cocktail Bars in Paris