5 palatial bars in Paris

The bar of this famous palace (luxury hotel) on Avenue Montaigne stands out because of its exceptional design, which is very different from the traditional bars in palaces. An elegant and surprising setting to sample exclusive champagnes, cocktails such as a black mojito with blackberry, and enjoy a croque-Plaza.

With its wood panelling, its magnificent chandelier, its English Regency sofas and side tables and the fireplace in the corner the bar at the Four Seasons Hôtel George V is a welcoming albeit traditional setting. The perfect place for a discreet meeting or an intimate conversation. You can also have lunch here. Don’t forget to try their signature cocktail, called Blurred Lines.

This luxurious new-style hotel, redesigned from top to bottom by Philippe Starck, is all about art and creation. The bar includes ‘the barman’s cocktail’ on its menu. Tell the barman your preferences in terms of fruit or flavours and he will custom mix a cocktail for you, which you can enjoy at the bar or on the terrace.

Bar 228 at Le Meurice is an institution. Among the 300 options on the menu, the ‘Bellini’ – a famous Venetian cocktail made with prosecco and peach purée – is probably one of the best in Paris and a great way to kick off a summer evening. Their signature cocktail, the Impérial Black with whisky, mandarin, cocoa and cranberry also has a large fan base.

Sip a cocktail or mocktail in a cosy, intimate setting with subdued lighting and a refined aesthetic: the dark wood panelling is inlaid with Lalique crystal jewellery. Bar 8 also serves a Paris-Tivo, a nod to the Italian aperitivo, but with a Parisian twist!