Secret Bars in St Petersburg Only Locals Know About

For a cinema-like atmosphere that makes you feel like you are in a secret club, check out Kabinet bar. The whole setting of the bar is reminiscent of a closed casino from the 1930s or something from The Great Gatsby. There, hidden underground at the poker tables, you can drink masterfully crafted cocktails, designed specifically for your mood at that very moment.

In Portugal, there are many quintas, or country estates, in the Duoro Valley, the region famous for Port wine. The name of this bar, then, might give you an idea of its speciality – Port and other fortified wines form the basis of the menu. Apart from Port wine, Quinta offers a large selection of sherries and Madera. And the cherry on top? The bar‘s head mixologist created a menu of contemporary cocktails, each paired with a special appetiser.

El Copitas is probably the most popular speakeasy bar in town. The founders, inspired by authentic taperias in Mexico, decided to reconstruct such an atmosphere in St Petersburg. The place is quite small, and the centre of the space features a huge table where guests sit. Tequila and mescal shots are flowing, and guests can savour spicy Mexican cuisine, all in a true Mexican atmosphere.

The small and cosy Apotheke bar sits right in the city centre, but the entrance is hidden behind the usual inconspicuous door. The only sign is the red cross near the entrance. This bar‘s menu doesn’t offer food and beer, and the cocktails are mixed only by a wish – in general, they prefer pure drinks of different varieties, from whiskey to rare kinds of liquor.

This atmospheric space is a favourite among St Petersburg wine lovers, so it is better to book in advance, especially if you want to visit Big Wine Freaks during the weekend. Their menu offers a truly huge selection of wines, along with delicious appetisers. The bar sits in the territory of a former factory, so make sure to ask for clear directions while booking – or just follow the crowd.

At Moonshine, they value a calm atmosphere and the appreciation of the cocktail creation process. Real mixology lovers will enjoy the slow pace of the space and the high quality and variety of offered cocktails. It is not possible just to walk in (even if you find the entrance), so make sure to book in advance.

Akakao is more of a club rather than a regular bar, one that will require a special password to enter. It boasts some spectacular parties and concerts. The design is eclectic, to say the least, complete with a bar, a dance floor, some board games and even a library (a true cultural capital). If you want to get a password, call in and book.

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