Top Cocktail Bars in Paris

Le Syndicat is hidden in plain sight behind a cement wall plastered with graffiti and posters. Devoid of any signage, the entrance is easily missed and fools those passing by with its raw and unfinished aesthetic. Sharing the same feeling to an underground hip-hop bar from the late '70s, the Parisian haunt focuses on the poison with its inventive menu of drinks made exclusively from French spirits and liqueurs.

Located in the former Jean Paul Gaultier flagship store, which is behind the Italian pizza eatery Daroco Bourse, is Nico de Soto's contemporary bar. A retro setting filled with velvet furnishings and a herringbone marble bar that takes you back to the '70s in New York City's Lower East Side, the bar distinctly focuses on its 12-cocktail menu from various regions across the world.

The symbol of opening the little red door may stem from fulfilling the 'Alice in Wonderland' childhood fantasy, but the bar itself is anything but childish. The dimly lit space resembles that of an old friend's quirky living room, from leather couches to armchairs and patchwork conversation chairs. The bar has a 14-cocktail menu with just the names of the drinks. For the brave cocktail connoisseur, the metropolitan nightspot is for those willing to entrust in the bartender.

Underneath the well-recognized Italian joint - Carboni's, lies Bar Sotto at the bottom of the spiral staircase. For those searching for traditional drinks done to perfection to contemporary classics and natty wines, guests get to enjoy one of the tiniest bars in Paris. Fitting just a few tables and narrow barstools, the underground escape brings a retro vibe where guests can listen to beats from the vintage vinyl jukebox while enjoying their drinks.

If there is a bar that encompasses the IYKYK vibe, the bar inside the luxury Hotel Costes would be it. Just left of the reception desk, the bar is a privileged venue nestled in the 1e arrondissement. Opened til very, very late, the bar is known for its hidden location away from the hustle and bustle, serving up typical bar cocktails to perfection. Elegantly lit in subdued lighting, the bar is an exclusive spot, often a go-to for the elite.

Named after Ernest Hemingway for his efforts to liberate the hotel during the Nazi occupation in WWII, the bar is neatly tucked away in the Ritz Paris at Place Vendôme. If you would like a side of history with your drink, Bar Hemingway brings an old-world charm to your standard, but strong cocktails.

A speakeasy with a grocery storefront, the concealed bar in Le Marais is vibrant and welcoming. Arabian touches like the multi-colored Moroccan lamps and Arabic stop signs complement the menu which features the "Tété du Bled" cocktail and even small bites or mezze plates. Approachable prices make the bar a popular choice for those looking for an easy-going, yet fun experience.

This unpretentious spot is tucked away in the quiet streets near Strasbourg-Saint Denis. The brightly lit and warm wood paneling defines the aesthetic of the nautical-themed bar. An inviting and accessible venue that serves up classics and specialty cocktails from a paper scroll menu, drinks are inspired by seaside locations across the world. For a taste of the French Riviera, the Rosé Pamp is a Lillet-based drink sure to take you to the Côte d'Azur.

Unassuming at a glance, the entrance to the urban lounge has a cavelike architecture with arches to distinguish the high-ceiling space. Establishing itself as a place of multiple identities, it fronts as a costume shop for pajamas, as well as a bar serving up bold cocktail concoctions. Whether you are dressed in an evening gown or PJs, the Serpent à Plume is whatever you want it to be.

An after-dark spot in the French metropolitan, the hidden gem serves up Mexican classics for those who want to quench their thirst with agave-based spirits. A classic taqueria-style backdrop, Candelaria was dubbed the first hidden bar in Paris since its opening in 2011. A spirited spot with welcoming service, the bar highlights potent beverages like the jalapeño and agave nectar-infused drink, "La Guepe Verte."