White subway tiles, factory windows and a long zinc bar lead the way into the contemporary interior of Caffè Propaganda. The cool design matches an equally enviable address—the bar is literally around the corner from the Colosseum. The bistro-style drinking and dining spot has redesigned its menu multiple times, most recently around the concept of ‘avant-garde.’ A super duo of mixologists create drinks that really do push beyond expectations, including the signature Il Calippo: a milky concoction with mint, Haitian rum and the cafe’s very own secret recipe cherry cola. The cocktail list is full of similarly surprising combinations, so this hip bar is not the place to pop in for a standard pint. It is, however, great for a fancy nightcap after indulging in bite-sized tortellini filled with carbonara sauce and mini sliders from Propaganda’s main dining area.
Time Out tip: The bar area regularly hosts vertical tastings of spirits or wines midweek (usually Tuesday), when it is possible to sample different styles and ages of the same varietal in order to learn more about the particular drink.