The Top 10 Bars And Wine Caves In Perpignan

Situated in the far south of France, on the cusp of the Mediterranean and Catalonia, the Roussillon region – of which Perpignan is the capital – is a land of cultural variety. This quality is reflected in the city’s nightlife, which also demonstrates international influences. Whether letting their hair down in a bar or reposing in a wine cave, Perpignan’s inhabitants know how to have a good time. Read our guide to find out where to join them.

1. La Habana Bodéguita

Bar, Pub Grub

This bar brings the rhythms of Latin America to Southern France. Salsa and Zumba classes are held for free on Thursdays, but even during the rest of the week the atmosphere is as vibrant as the color scheme. Cuban music, food, and decorations add authenticity, as do the mojitos. There’s a shaded terrace outside should you need a break from the dance floor. Beyond the Cuban influences there are other international dishes like tapas, barbecued snails, and beef carpaccio. Daiquiri | © Cocktailmarler/WikiCommons

2. Le Corsaire

Bar, Pub Grub, French

Come aboard this pirate-themed bar and feast your eyes on the vast selection of Le Corsaire’s very own rum, all stoppered in large jugs that wouldn’t look out of place in the hands of Jack Sparrow. The rum comes in all manner of flavors, including caramel, pistachio, ginger, and all manner of fruits and is used as the base for their cocktails. Upstairs is a tapas bar and private terrace but if you have energy to burn, it’s worth staying downstairs to listen to the live music and watch the bartenders’ time-honored tradition of setting the bar alight. Caribbean cuisine | © Mulling it Over/WikiCommons

3. Le Zinc Wine & Cocktail Bar

Bar, Cocktail Bar, Pub Grub

Le Zinc has been operating for 24 years in Perpignan near the historic 14th-century monument Le Castillet. Relax and enjoy the ambiance of a cocktail lounge, with smooth jazz seeping through the speakers. Tapas are served throughout the night and a comfortable seating area is provided in addition to the space around the bar. For an added dose of sophistication, come during one of the wine tasting evenings that are organized. Steak | © Daniel Go/Flickr

4. Bar La Source

Bar, Cafe, French

Bar La Source is a hit with visiting rugby league fans as well as those of the local team, the Catalan Dragons. Generously portioned homemade kebabs, pastas, and salads are eaten up by the clientele, and the steaks are unparalleled: the owner, Eric, is a former butcher. Eric is a big part of the bar’s convivial atmosphere, which is added to by the good wine and coffee and a number of varieties of beer. Wine bottles | © Matt Pourney/WikiCommons

5. Aux Vins 4 Canons

Deli, Pub Grub

Mother and son Francoise and Fabien Plane set up Aux Vins 4 Canons in a former armory to share their passion for bio-dynamic wine. The walls of their modern shop are filled with shelves upon shelves of the stuff, all produced with an emphasis on natural and organic processes, and mostly hailing from the Roussillon region. Events are hosted here too, like wine tasting courses and poetry readings. Charcuterie, caviar, oils, vinegar, and ice cream can be purchased as well as over 500 varieties of wine, champagnes, spirits and liquors. Wine and bread | © Jon Sullivan/WikiCommons