Sipping in Style: The Ultimate Guide to Paris’ Mocktails and Cocktails

Ah, Paris! The city of lights, love, and… libations! In Paris, the City of Light becomes a playground for your taste buds – and that doesn’t stop at food. While the French capital is renowned for its wine, it’s also home to a vibrant cocktail scene. Whether you’re looking for a boozy adventure or prefer to keep things alcohol-free, Paris has got you covered. Let’s embark on a liquid journey through the city’s best mocktails and cocktails! Make sure to check out series on Paris: Bon Appétit in Paris: A Culinary Journey Through the City of Light and Best Cities for Foodies.

Mocktails: Alcohol-Free Elegance

Who says you need alcohol to enjoy the Parisian nightlife? The city’s mixologists have mastered the art of creating stunning, flavorful mocktails that rival their spirited counterparts. Here are some suggestions of where to go and what cocktail to order.

1. Le Mary Celeste’s Seasonal Creations: Head to Le Mary Celeste in the Marais district for some of the most innovative mocktails in the city. Their menu changes with the seasons, but you might find delights like a Green Apple and Basil Fizz or a Spiced Pear Cooler. These drinks prove that alcohol-free can be far from flavor-free.
2. Bisou’s Seasonal Creations: For those seeking Instagram-worthy mocktails, head to Bisou in the 10th arrondissement. This eco-friendly cocktail bar creates stunning alcohol-free concoctions using seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Try their lavender lemonade in summer or warm spiced apple juice in winter for an authentic taste of Paris through the seasons.
3. The Blueberry at Little Red Door: The world-renowned Little Red Door doesn’t disappoint when it comes to mocktails. Their Blueberry mocktail, a mix of blueberry shrub, verjus, and tonic water, offers a sophisticated, grown-up drink without the alcohol.
4. The Virgin Kir Royal: Start your mocktail adventure with a twist on a French classic. Many upscale hotels and bars offer a non-alcoholic version of the beloved Kir Royal, swapping champagne for sparkling grape juice and crème de cassis for blackcurrant syrup. It’s a refreshing, bubbly treat that lets you feel fancy without the buzz.
5. Lavender Lemonade at Bisou: For a true taste of Provence in Paris, try the Lavender Lemonade at Bisou. This eco-friendly bar creates stunning alcohol-free concoctions using locally sourced ingredients. The delicate floral notes of lavender paired with zesty lemon create a refreshing drink that’s pure sunshine in a glass.

Cocktails: Classic and Contemporary

Now, for those who enjoy a spirited sip, Paris offers an array of cocktails that range from timeless classics to cutting-edge creations.

1. The Hemingway Daiquiri at Bar Hemingway: No cocktail tour of Paris would be complete without a visit to the legendary Bar Hemingway at the Ritz. Order the Hemingway Daiquiri, a refreshing blend of rum, lime, grapefruit juice, and maraschino liqueur. It’s said to have been a favorite of the bar’s namesake author.
2. Sister Midnight: Paris’s Edgy Rock ‘n’ Roll Cocktail Haven – Step into the electric atmosphere of Sister Midnight, Paris’s coolest rock-inspired cocktail bar. Located in the trendy 11th arrondissement, this edgy establishment seamlessly blends vintage charm with modern mixology. Whether you’re a rock aficionado or simply searching for expertly crafted cocktails, Sister Midnight offers a unique Parisian nightlife experience. Come for the drinks, stay for the music, and lose yourself in the intoxicating blend of Paris’s cocktail culture and rock ‘n’ roll spirit. Reservations are recommended for live music nights.
3. The French 75 at Harry’s New York Bar: No cocktail tour of Paris would be complete without a visit to the legendary Harry’s New York Bar. Try their French 75, a sparkling combination of gin, lemon juice, sugar, and champagne. It’s said to have a kick-like being shelled with a French 75mm field gun – hence the name!
4. Danico: Parisian Cocktail Artistry in the Heart of the Marais. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or simply looking for an extraordinary drinking experience, Danico offers a taste of Paris’s cutting-edge cocktail culture. Discover why this bar has become a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike in the City of Light. Nestled within the chic Daroco restaurant in Paris’s trendy Marais district, Danico is a hidden gem that’s redefining the city’s cocktail scene. This intimate, stylish bar is the brainchild of renowned mixologist Nico de Soto, offering a perfect blend of innovation and classic French elegance. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends
5. The Little Red Door’s Ever-Changing Menu: True cocktail aficionados shouldn’t miss Little Red Door in the Marais. Their innovative menu changes regularly, often featuring cocktails inspired by abstract concepts or emotions. Ask the bartender for their current specialty – you’re in for a multisensory experience!
6. The Rive Gauche at Prescription Cocktail Club: For a more modern twist, visit the Prescription Cocktail Club on the Left Bank. Their signature Rive Gauche cocktail blends cognac, crème de pêche, lemon juice, and Champagne for a drink that embodies Parisian sophistication.
7. Experimental Cocktail Club’s: Ever-Changing Menu True cocktail aficionados shouldn’t miss the Experimental Cocktail Club. Their innovative menu changes regularly, but you can always count on unique flavor combinations and expert craftsmanship. Ask the bartender for their current specialty – you won’t be disappointed.
8. The Modernist at Experimental Cocktail Club: The Experimental Cocktail Club has been at the forefront of Paris’s cocktail renaissance. Try their Modernist, a smoky blend of mezcal, yellow chartreuse, and Aperol. It perfectly represents how traditional French liqueurs can be used in contemporary cocktails.
9. Candelaria: Hidden Cocktail Paradise Behind a Taqueria. Tucked away behind an unassuming taqueria front in Paris’s trendy Marais district, Candelaria is a speakeasy-style cocktail bar that’s become a cult favorite among locals and visitors alike. This hidden gem offers an unexpected blend of Mexican street food and world-class mixology. Whether you’re in the mood for expertly crafted cocktails or just looking to discover one of Paris’s best-kept secrets, Candelaria offers a unique experience that seamlessly blends Parisian chic with international flair. Don’t forget to grab a taco on your way out! No reservations accepted for the bar – first come, first served
10. Bar Les Ambassadeurs: Opulent Cocktails in Parisian Palace Splendor. Nestled within the luxurious Hôtel de Crillon on Place de la Concorde, Bar Les Ambassadeurs offers a cocktail experience that epitomizes Parisian elegance and sophistication. This historic venue, once the ballroom of the 18th-century palace, now serves as one of the city’s most prestigious cocktail destinations. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to indulge in the height of Parisian luxury, Bar Les Ambassadeurs provides an unforgettable cocktail experience. Sip on masterfully crafted drinks while soaking in the opulent atmosphere and stunning views of Place de la Concorde. It’s a taste of Parisian high society that’s not to be missed. Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend evenings.

A Toast to Parisian Wine Culture

While we’re focusing on cocktails and mocktails, it would be remiss not to mention Paris’s rich wine culture. Many bars offer excellent wine lists featuring both local and international varieties. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations – Parisian sommeliers are often passionate about sharing their knowledge.

Tips for Enjoying Paris’ Drink Scene

1. Timing is Everything: Parisians tend to eat and drink later than in some other cultures. Many bars don’t get busy until after 10 pm.
2. Apéritif Hour: Embrace the French tradition of apéritif – a pre-dinner drink often enjoyed with small bites. It’s the perfect time to try a lighter cocktail or a glass of Champagne.
3. Sip Slowly: In Paris, drinks are meant to be savored. Take your time and enjoy the flavors and atmosphere.
4. Explore Different Arrondissements: Each Parisian neighborhood has its own unique vibe. There’s a drink for every mood, from the chic bars of the Marais to the bohemian spots in Montmartre.
5. Try Local Spirits: Look out for cocktails featuring French spirits like Cognac, Armagnac, or lesser-known gems like Calvados (apple brandy) or Génépi (an Alpine herbal liqueur).

Whether you’re clinking glasses filled with a vibrant mocktail or sipping a perfectly balanced cocktail, Paris offers a drinking experience like no other. From hidden speakeasies to glitzy hotel bars, each venue tells a story through its drinks. So raise your glass and say “Santé!” to the delightful liquid treasures of the City of Light. Ready to start planning your France vacation?  After all, in Paris, every sip is a celebration of life, culture, and the art of mixology. Cheers to your Parisian drinking adventure! Looking for more about Paris read Favorite Moments in the City of Lights: Paris, Paris in the Spring: How to Spend a Day or perhaps Uncover the Hidden Charms of Paris in the Fall.