Written as part of Paris Romance Week for our Love Paris giveaway
The French have the apéro down to an art form. Appetites are whet with typically French pre-dinner sips such as kir, bubbly or martini blanc.
But, while it’s always fun to get down with the locals, sometimes us cocktail-drinkers just want a serious dry martini.
Here’s where you take your date to try one…
1. Candelaria
For: the best martinis and craft cocktails in one of Paris’ latest see-and-be-seen scenes…
Owned by a trio of the city’s most knowledgeable and coolest of cocktail connoisseurs, this new and buzz-worthy lounge’s entrance is hidden at the back of a brightly lit (and yummy) taqueria. Stop in for one of the best martinis in town, a topnotch house creation or the respectable tequila selection. A favorite amongst locals and visiting cocktillians, this is a must-do for serious craft cocktail fanatics. Tip: Go early as it packs in the crowds.
52 rue de Saintonge
Price: 12 Euros/cocktail
2. Le Fumoir
For: martinis on a budget with a view of the Louvre
Often eschewed by locals for newer kids on the block, this Paris institution deserves a revisit for its happy hour and proximity to the city center. Cocktail lovers on a budget will be hard-pressed to find a better drinking deal than le Fumoir from 6pm to 8pm. Tip: Snag a seat on the terrace, if possible, for the best of people watching while partaking.
6, Rue de l’Amiral Coligny
Price: 12-13 Euros/cocktail – ½ price during happy hour
3. Bar le Forvm
For: serious martinis from Paris’ longest-standing family-owned bar
Classic, upscale cocktails done with precision in an old-school American bar style, le Forvm consistently wins recognition as the “best cocktail bar in France.” Better suited for serious cocktaillians than the latest trend seekers, slide onto a cocktail stool along the dark wood bar or slump into the comfy sofas and chairs and let the knowledgeable staff work their magic. Tip: If you dare, try a martini with the Plymouth Navy Strength – its one of the few bars in Paris who stock it.
4 Blvd Malesherbes
Price: 16 – 20 Euros/cocktail
4. La Conserverie
For: martinis for trendy types with taste
With one of Paris’ top bartenders heading up the show, la Conserverie more than earns its reputation as a cocktail-worthy stop. With their small, but impressive, selection of spirits behind the bar, you’ll surely find just the right poison for partaking. Their reputation is for interesting, unusual and seasonal tipples and cocktail crawlers looking for the best of martinis will easily sink into a sofa in this industrial chic environment and stay awhile. Tip: head here when you’re feeling the munchies as they have a menu of interesting preserves to appease the appetite.
37 bis, rue du Sentier
Price: 12-13 Euros/cocktail
5. Park Hyatt
For: ultimate high-end martinis with the style, service and satisfaction
Want to hit the upscale hotel bars for a sure-fire martini? The Park Hyatt has the means, the spirits and the service to justify the price tag. Saunter into the bar, or lounge on the lovely terrace in nice weather. These boys bring it when it comes to martinis – or any other tipple you might fancy – but at a price.
5 Rue de la Paix
Price: 25 Euros/cocktail
Want to win a trip to Paris? Like us on Facebook to enter our Love Paris giveaway (to September 30th 2011). The prize includes a Paris hotel stay for two and a tour of Monet’s gardens from Fat Tire Bikes, plus £150/€170 travel vouchers to make the return journey. (UPDATE: competition now closed: Like us on Facebook to discover our latest competitions first)
About the author: Forest Collins blogs at 52martinis
Flickr images, with thanks: 1 2 Other images c. Forest Collins
