Bars in Sofia for a Unique Night Out

Hambara is a legendary place where poets and musicians used to gather semi-secretly (actually many people knew about the place but only a few had a key to enter). Later the venue opened to the public although even today you might have to knock on the door to be let in. Once inside, you can hear the wooden floor squeaking and quiet music playing, often performed live. There is no electric light, only candles making for a cozy, homey atmosphere. Still remaining somewhat wrapped in mystery, Hambara doesn’t have a website or any sign on the outside of its building. It’s open daily after 7 pm and you have to look carefully for a house set back a little from street level, in a courtyard. Load the address on your map app and when you get there, just knock on the door.
22, 6-ti Septemvri Str, 1142 Sofia
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This bar is actually an apartment but you can call it many other names – a gallery, an art scene, a mini cinema, a chocolate parlor… There is a rich program of events, workshops, and concerts that turn the place in an urban cultural hub.

68, Neofit Rilski Str., 1000 Sofia

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A recently open games board bar, Restart is a meeting place for games and people. Bring friends and indulge in both board games (more than 60 types are available) and video games (two PS4 consoles loaded up with all the latest couch co-op and multiplayer titles). Those who feel nostalgic about the dawn of the video gaming, can travel back in time thanks to the NES Classic Mini console available in the bar. The drinks menu includes a quality beer selection, homemade lemonade and themed cocktails. To get there, take the subway Line 1 to Business Park Station and then walk for five minutes.

The 3 Trolls is a chain of two branch board games bars in Sofia, both located in the central area of the city – the ‘Basement’ at 80, Oborishte Street, and the ‘House’ at 21, Chataldzha Street. The ‘House’ has a summer garden making it a perfect spot for a hot summer evening with friends and you can also order a pizza or sandwiches if you have got carried away playing and need a bite to continue. There are more than 400 games in total and a choice of 40 local and imported beer brands.

80, Oborishte Str., 1505 Sofia

3 Trolls Board Games Bar | Courtesy of 3 Trolls | Courtesy of 3 Trolls

Grindhouse Skate Club is an underground live music venue located a bit of a distance from the city center but that makes it even more special because every visitor here intended to have their beer here and nowhere else. The night club is the only one in Sofia that features a halfpipe skating ramp inside, a fact that gathers a dedicated crowd.

73, Tsarigradsko Shose, Sofia 1113

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There are just a few bars with rooftop views of Sofia but the one at Sense Hotel is where you can sip cocktails in style. The spacious terrace with a view of some of the most emblematic buildings in Sofia and the quality spirits will make for a perfect evening, a date or a business meeting. The dress code is smart casual.

Step through the door and in to the relaxing garden here to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Top Secret is a mix of garden, pool and bar&diner where you can listen to soothing jazz music while sipping your cocktail by the pool or in the jacuzzi at sunset.

107, Sveti Kliment Ohridski Str., 1756 Sofia