The study of mixology in Paris has been quickly rising especially in the last few years.

Instead of heading out to a dive bar or the latest happening club on any night of the week, today’s Parisians are much more interested in cool cocktail bars with intimate atmosphere and tastefully cultivated drinks. When it comes to where to grab a refined and delicious cocktail in Paris, we got the best advice from a local expert: Joseph Akhavan, owner and creator of Mabel Cocktail Den/Rum Empire, the latest buzzworthy hotspot. Here are some of his favorite bars guaranteeing a night of exquisitely crafted aperitifs.

1. L’Entrée des Artistes | Pigalle

30 Rue Victor Masse, 75009 Paris, France (map, website) Metro: Pigalle, line 2 or 12.

L’Entrée des Artistes | Pigalle combines both restaurant & cocktail bar. The food is always amazing with modern-french influence and seasonal ingredients from the best producers in a incredible setting. The cocktails bar stays opened late on week-ends with great ambiance et spot-on drinks, also using seasonal ingredients. The team recently opened a Pizzeria -Faggio- nearby: The best in town!

2. Experimental Cocktail Club

37 Rue Saint-Sauveur, 75002 Paris, France (map, website) Metro: Sentier, line 3.

Pioneer of the Parisian Bar scene it’s still -8 years later- one of my favorites. Experimental Cocktail Club is small and intimate but gets filled up pretty quickly. They are right next to Mabel so on week-ends we can go grab a drink after our shift since they close at 4am on Friday-Saturday. The staff is always very welcoming. They have a couple of amazing vintage Rums.

3. Candelaria

52 Rue de Saintonge, 75003 Paris, France (map, website) Metro: Filles du Calvaire, line 8.

Hidden behind a Taqueria with a great selection of Mexican Spirits, you’ll always find a party-like ambiance. If you bring your friends to Candelaria, wait for the surprise on their faces when you open the white door.

4. Sherry Butt

20 Rue Beautreillis, 75004 Paris, France (map, website) Metro: Bastille, line 1, 5 or 8.

You’ll find delicious cocktails as well as a very fine whisky/whiskey selection. Sherry Butt pays attention to details and you will feel very welcome every time! It’s opened on Sundays which is great when most bars usually close!

5. Castor Club

14 Rue Hautefeuille, 75006 Paris, France (map, website) Metro: Odéon, line 4 or 10.

Castor Club is on the other side of the back. The decor is very warm and the top bar is very cosy which gives it a very comfortable feel. Also one the its big upside is that it stays open late on week-end  (4am) Look out for the wooden façade down rue Hautefeuille.

6. Le Syndicat

51 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis, 75010 Paris, France (map, website) Metro: Château d’Eau, line 4.

I can’t stick to 5 and not mention them. Le Syndicat has a great concept of French Products only focused cocktails. They play loud Hip-Hip. It’s a great combination!

Have the best rum of your life at Joseph Akhavan’s Mabel Cocktail Den/Rum Empire. 

58 Rue d’Aboukir, 75002 Paris, France (map, website)

BONUS! Here are some of our favorites:

Danico

6 Rue Vivienne, 75002 Paris (map, website)

Who goes there: An international crowd, and thirsty diners wanting for more tasty cocktails after a luscious meal at Daroco. 

What’s to love: Tucked behind the ultra-popular Daroco Italian restaurant, this Brooklyn-style bar features an evolving menu full of creative innovations that are easily to dip down while you sink into dark velvet lounge chairs. Don’t be fooled by its seemingly exclusive vibe, the staff is friendly and ready to make you feel at ease. Rare for Paris, they speak English!

Neighborhood: 2eme arrondissement. (Metro: Bourse or Sentier)

Le Perchoir

14 Rue Crespin du Gast, 75011 Paris, France (map, website)

Who goes there: A mix crowd of mid-20s to early-40s looking to have a great time without the hassle of superficiality.

What’s to love: The coolest rooftop bar in Paris. Period. Stare into the panoramic view of the city as you sip on specialty cocktails including anything from a fancy mojito to a carefully prepared whiskey that tastes like heaven and smells like a garden.

Neighborhood: 11th arrondissement, near Parmentier (Metro: Ménilmontant – line 2, or Rue Saint-Maur – line 3)

Prescription Cocktail Club

23 Rue Mazarine, 75006 Paris, France (map, website)

Who goes there: Lots of English-speaking folks. Expect to meet travelers and expats.

What’s to love: If you’ve heard of the Experimental Cocktail Club in Paris, it’s the same team behind Prescription Cocktail Club. Adore the retro-1930s, speakeasy atmosphere? You’ll love this place especially with stylish drinks that are completely out-of-the-box and intoxicatingly delicious at the same time. Get the Gin Gin Mule, or share an Old Cuban with your friends!

Neighborhood: Saint-Germain-des-Prés (Metro: Odéon – line 4, 10)

Jerry Alonzo Leon

Contributor

Jerry's favorite country to travel to is Spain. When he's on the road, he keeps it real simple with a pen and a pad. His travel style is spontaneous, easygoing, and always in search of a great adventure.