13 best speakeasies in Paris

Grouvie is tucked away in a discreet passage near Odéon, nestled under the eaves of the new Brasserie des Prés. The long, narrow room, with its red tones and centuries-old beams, is an Instagrammable little gem that makes quite the impression. Jennifer Le Nechet (formerly of Mino) has created a refined drinks menu featuring a dozen recipes with sophisticated flavours, all inspired by pop music. Grouvie also brings the laughs with a comedy club on Tuesdays and a bingo session on Sundays. Could this be a good excuse to venture to the Left Bank again?

Where? 6 Cour du Commerce-Saint-André, Paris 6th arrondissement

Crossing the grandiose, marble-clad nave of this pizzeria to reach the cosy little bar tucked away inside it is an experience in itself – but it pales in comparison to exploring the cocktail menu crafted by Nico de Soto and his team. Delicately refined and subtle drinks await, perfect for sipping in comfort, far from the hustle and bustle of the neighbourhood (and the diners).

Where? 6 Rue Vivienne, Paris 2nd arrondissement

Located in the basement of the Hôtel des Grands Voyageurs, Poppy is an exquisite example of Art Deco charm. With its mahogany tables, mirrored ceiling, and authentic Chagall lithographs, it gives the rather delightful impression of stepping into the first-class bar of a transatlantic liner bound for the Americas. To add to the luxurious, timeless feel, music is provided by a live pianist. Finally, a cocktail bar worthy of this swanky neighbourhood.

Where? 92 Rue de Vaugirard, Paris 6th arrondissement

This pioneer of the Parisian speakeasy scene (it opened back in 2011!) has stayed true to its roots over the years. The small, hidden room at the back of a tiny taqueria remains ultra-cosy. From the little counter, the team, led by Chris McNulty, serves up brilliantly clever and perfectly balanced drinks. Fancy a little trip to the Gulf of Mexico?

Where? 52 Rue de Saintonge, Paris 3rd arrondissement

Sotto is acryptic speakeasy with a bunker-like vibe and meticulously crafted décor, hidden beneath Carboni’s. Mixologist Adam Bayard serves up sleek cocktails while a vinyl jukebox plays the best of the 80s. Dancing is encouraged.

Where? 45 Rue de Poitou, Paris 3rd arrondissement

This impressive bar, nestled in the cathedral-like cellar beneath the former restaurant Datsha, truly stands out. Expect chic space age décor, a sound system that’s as pure as socialist ideals, and cocktails that will rocket you to another dimension. There’s even a dance floor and a DJ – what more could you ask for?

Where? 57 Rue des Gravilliers, Paris 3rd arrondissement

To enter Moonshiner, you first need to make your way through the pizzeria Da Vito, a proper restaurant, and step into the walk-in fridge. Behind a fake door lies a real bar that fully embraces 1920s New York vibes, with expertly shaken cocktails, servers in crisp shirts, and an Art Deco smoking room.

Where? 5 Rue Sedaine, Paris 11th arrondissement

Hidden doesn’t have to mean small. Located in a discreet cobbled alley opposite the Opéra Garnier, in the former premises of the Calmann-Lévy publishing house, this impressive space boasts 11-metre-high ceilings, wrought ironwork and a large skylight. From Le Shack's short cocktail menu, insiders can select a drink to be enjoyed while ensconced amidst bookshelves.

Where? 4 Impasse Sandrié, Paris 9th arrondissement

In the depths of the 16th arrondissement, there’s a garden with a bubbling fountain, crunching gravel, and luxury cars waiting. In this garden, there’s a château (well, it’s really the Saint James Hotel). And inside this château, there’s the Bar Bibliothèque du Saint James, complete with coffered ceilings, book-lined walls, and a plush, timeless atmosphere that really is one of a kind. Bring a date: if this place doesn’t impress them, we’re not sure what will.

Where? 5 Place du Chancelier-Adenauer, Paris 16th arrondissement

In the basement of the Hôtel Normandy hides this unusual spot, inspired by nineteenth-century opium dens, clandestine pharmacies, and backrooms in the Vatican. It might seem like a chaotic mix, but at Rehab, it works. Here, you can sip cocktails infused with CBD, the legal cannabis compound known for its relaxing effects, unlike THC, which gets you high. Not that we’d know anything about that – it’s illegal, after all.

Where? 254 Rue Saint-Honoré, Paris 1st arrondissement

To be quite honest, Place des Vosges – which has all the energy of an asthmatic senator and property prices only sheikhs could afford – was the last place in Paris we expected to find a speakeasy. Yet, in the basement of an unusual restaurant/shop lies Serpent à plume. This unique venue, adorned with Olmec antiques and ’60s furniture (including a stunning 15-metre-long De Sede sofa!). Consider us both suprised and delighted.

Where? 24 Place des Vosges, Paris 3rd arrondissement

It’s great to see that Montmartre still offers magical spots like this hotel, tucked away amidst greenery on a hillside lane. Nestled in the basement, this bar is a lush cocoon hidden within the winter garden, exuding an atmosphere that’s part tropical den (large plants, jungle wallpaper, dim lighting), part Twin Peaks Season 3 (chequered floor and red velvet). Everyone should go at least once.

Where? 23 Avenue Junot, Paris 18th arrondissement