10 Spots To Have An 'Apro' In Bordeaux

The apéro—that moment right before dinner where friends gather and have drinks while eating some cheese, charcuterie, or any type of food associated with an epicurean lifestyle—is a very important part of the French food culture. Here is a selection of places to have a nice apéro while in Bordeaux.

Chez Alriq

Bar, French, Cocktails, Wine, Beer

Chez Alriq is not just a regular open-air bar, it is also a guinguette—a very popular place people used to come to drink, listen to music, and dance in the 1920s. Nowadays, the La Guinguette Chez Alriq in the Bastide District is a place where music lovers, walkers, or anyone wanting to eat some tasty-finger foods converge in this beautiful garden by the river.

Fernand Lafargue Square

Restaurant

Fernand Lafargue Square is a wonderful place to have an apéro. Those who don’t wish to sit in a restaurant right away can buy some snacks on the way and sit on one of the square’s benches. The area has tons of bars and restaurants that will suit any mood.

Up in the Air

Planning an apéro in a trendy place with rooftop and a beautiful view or on a balcony are fantastic treats. Mama Shelter Bordeaux and SIMAN Bordeaux are some of the best spots for early-evening drinks with friends.

Mama Shelter Bordeaux, 19 Rue Poquelin Molière, Bordeaux, France, +33 5 57 30 45 45

SIMAN Bordeaux, 7 Quai des Queyries, Bordeaux, France, +33 5 5 56 67 49 90

Les Chantiers de la Garonne

Bar, Restaurant, European, Seafood, Tapas, Beer, Wine

Picture sitting on a long chair, feet in the sand, a cold-craft beer in hand all while listening to some soothing lounge music as the sun goes down. Experience this blissful moment after booking a spot at Les Chantiers de la Garonne. Great memories guaranteed.

A Healthy Apéro at the Beach

Instead of heading back to the city at the end of the day, stay a little longer and improvise a gathering at the beach. Those with friends who are under a restricted diet, planning a healthier apéro can be done as well. All that’s needed is a blanket (to keep sand from getting in the way), fresh juices, some vegetables-based snacks, and some good company.

TheCITY

Bar, Market, French, Wine, Beer, Cocktails

Auction the price of the drink at TheCITY located in the Palais Gallien Street. The bar’s owner came up with the very cool idea of letting customers decide the price on the menu or the based of the “bourse” (market). Drinks’ prices fluctuate on several screens across the bar according to demand. In addition to the venue’s original concept, the staff makes amazing cocktails and is super friendly.

Take a Cruise

Tourism and food go great together and even more so in Bordeaux. While there, book an evening cruise if possible. This tour goes around the city and offers delicious tapas, some of the region’s delicacies, and world-class wines to enjoy while looking at the Garonne River’s breathtaking views.

Improvise an Apéro in a Park

After a day walking around the city, stop by a small market and grab apéro items. Make sure to pick up a few tomatoes, some cheese (roquefort, sheep, goat, or blue cheese will be perfect), some saucisson, bread, crackers, and red wine to take to the nearest park.

Have an Apéro at a Rental

Organize an apéro one with friends at the rental or accommodations. This is also an enjoyable and smart option to save money. Those who are short on drinks and don’t feel like walking to the liquor store, both Apéro à Domicile and Alert Apéro can deliver drinks or food until 2 or 3 am.

Apéro à Domicile, Bordeaux, France, +33 5 5 56 96 61 45

Alert Apéro, 22 Rue Monadey, Bordeaux, France, +33 5 5 56 39 85 99

Les Vivres de l'Art

Les Vivres de l’Art is an atypical venue, but go and enjoy eating some appetizers in a relaxed atmosphere while attending some cultural events in one of Bordeaux’s trendiest neighborhoods. Save

About the author

Jennifer Migan

Jennifer is a speechwriter and a public speaking coach based in Bordeaux, France. She is also a former professional tennis player. She is the founder of The Speech House which helps people (in English and French) to overcome their fear of public speaking and become better communicators. You can follow her on Instagram @jennifer_migan and on her storytelling platform Unique Stories @uniquestories.co.