The Best Bars in Bordeaux, France
In a country as wine-obsessed as France, it’s difficult to pinpoint a singular viticultural capital. However, the southwestern city of Bordeaux presents a strong case for the national title – and perhaps even the world. It’s home to 57 protected wine regions, thousands of wineries and more than 120,000 hectares of vines – there’s even Cité du Vin, a wine museum located close to the Garonne River. If you’re imagining a city awash with wine bars, you’re not far off. But Bordeaux is also home to countless pubs, clubs and hidden speakeasies. Head off the beaten wine trail and you’ll find plenty of great bars.
1. Bar à Vin
Bar, Wine Bar, Pub Grub
2. Le CanCan
Bar, Cocktail Bar, European
This speakeasy-style bar, buried in the backstreets of Bordeaux, is dedicated to cocktails made with French spirits. Its warm interiors and leather couches create a cosy atmosphere, inviting you to stay a while. But don’t be fooled by its entrance: in order to get in, you’ll need to enter a library and call the staff via a phone booth – prohibition style.
3. Mama Shelter
Bar, Hotel Restaurant, Restaurant, French
5. The Houses of Parliament
Bar, Pub, Pub Grub
6. Vintage Bar
Bar, Pub, Cocktails
Vintage Bar is a rhumerie (rum bar) on the busy Rue Saint-James, just metres from the iconic Grosse Cloche. The busy bar offers happy hour specials from four until eight every day, making it a popular hangout among the young Bordelais. Grab a spot on the terrace between Monday and Friday if you’re keen for a quiet drink in the heart of Old Town Bordeaux – or if you’re up for a night out, there are live DJ sets on Saturdays.
7. BAM Karaoke Box
Bar, Cocktails
Karaoke is a popular night-out activity across Asia, but it’s still a relatively new concept in Europe. BAM Karaoke Box is changing this, one tropical-themed private booth at a time. Their Bordeaux location is in the busy Chartrons district, and encourages visitors to pick up a mic and sing their hearts out. No need to be nervous – their cocktails will quell any pre-song jitters.
8. Le Siman
Bar, French
Situated by the Garonne River, Le Siman may just have the best views in all of Bordeaux. This rooftop bar and restaurant looks out over the city’s historic skyline and the famous Pont de Pierre. Order a drink and some hors d’oeuvres on the scenic terrace, no matter the season – it’s ideal on a balmy evening and heated during the winter.
9. Symbiose
Restaurant, French
10. La Comtesse
Bar, Pub Grub, Cocktails
This is an updated version of an article originally by Alexandra Jones.
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