Once a marshland transformed into an aristocratic haven in the 17th century, its cobblestone streets are lined with elegant mansions, or "hôtels particuliers," many of which now house galleries, museums, and boutiques.
The area is a melting pot of influences — home to one of Paris’s oldest Jewish communities and, in more recent decades, a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene. From the oldest square in Paris, Place des Vosges to the bustling Rue des Rosiers that leads you to the Jewish quarter, Le Marais preserves its historical charm while embracing the city's ever-evolving contemporary spirit, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking to experience Paris in all its diversity.
The word ‘haut’ translates to ‘top’, meaning the top or the north of Le Marais. Named the 23rd coolest neighbourhood in the world by TimeOut in 2023, Haut Marais and Le Marais may share the same geographic roots, they do offer distinctly different experiences for those exploring Paris.
Le Marais, with its medieval streets and grand aristocratic mansions, is steeped in history, offering a glimpse into Paris's Jewish heritage and an eclectic mix of cultural landmarks. Haut Marais, or the "Upper Marais," just a few blocks north, is a more recent creative hub where avant-garde art galleries, trendy boutiques, and hip cafés thrive. While Le Marais exudes old-world charm, Haut Marais pulses with contemporary energy, attracting a youthful, fashion-forward crowd. Together, they form a fascinating juxtaposition of the old and the new, making this part of Paris endlessly dynamic.
Cambridge Public House, located in Paris's Haut Marais, has made waves globally, securing its spot on The World’s 50 Best Bars list time and time again, for its unique blend of British pub charm and Parisian cocktail finesse. The bar’s menu is a masterclass in creativity and craftsmanship, offering drinks that are as thoughtful as they are playful. Standout cocktails include the “Beetroot Boulevardier,” a vibrant take on the classic with an earthy beetroot infusion, and the “Oxford Punch,” a delicate balance of gin, Earl Grey tea, and citrus that evokes a quintessentially British flavor profile. For adventurous palates, the “Carrot Spritz” offers a surprising mix of carrot juice and Aperol, refreshing and bold in equal measure. Each drink at Cambridge Public House is a testament to their innovative approach, earning it a well-deserved place among the finest cocktail bars in the world.
Cambridge Public House
8 rue de Poitou, 75003 Paris
Little Red Door, nestled in the artistic enclave of Paris’s 3rd arrondissement, is a fixture on The World’s 50 Best Bars list, celebrated for its avant-garde approach to cocktails and immersive drinking experience. Behind its unassuming red door, the bar offers a menu that blends innovation with a deep respect for terroir, highlighting ingredients sourced directly from farmers. Their "Grounded" menu features cocktails like the "Beetroot," which reimagines the classic daiquiri with earthy beetroot, and the "Barley," a sophisticated mix of whisky and beer reduction that captures the essence of grain. The "Sunflower" cocktail, with its delicate combination of sunflower seed milk and vodka, delivers a surprising yet harmonious flavor profile. Every drink at Little Red Door is a journey, where storytelling and sustainability meet masterful mixology, making it a must-visit for those seeking a cocktail experience unlike any other in Paris.
Little Red Door
60 rue Charlot, 75003 Paris
A hidden gem in Paris’ vibrant 3rd arrondissement, Bar Nouveau is a cocktail lover’s paradise where innovation and craftsmanship take center stage. This sleek, modern space has earned a loyal following for its meticulously curated cocktail menu that pushes boundaries while honoring the classics. Signature drinks like the “Lavande Spritz” marry floral notes of lavender with the crispness of prosecco, while the “Smoky Bourbon Sour” offers a bold twist on the classic with a touch of mezcal smokiness and charred citrus. The “Saffron Negroni,” infused with saffron and house-made vermouth, provides an exotic depth of flavor that lingers on the palate. With a focus on fresh ingredients, creative infusions, and precision in every pour, Bar Nouveau is redefining Paris’ cocktail scene with every sip.
Bar Nouveau
5 rue des Haudriettes, 75003 Paris
A cozy yet stylish bar on Boulevard du Temple in Paris’ 3rd arrondissement, Bisou has redefined the cocktail scene with its zero-menu concept. Here, every drink is a bespoke creation, crafted to match each guest’s preferences. Upon arrival, the bartenders ask a few simple questions—your favorite spirits, flavors, or even your mood—and then the magic happens. Using only organic and seasonal ingredients, Bisou's bartenders craft personalized cocktails with an emphasis on sustainability. Think along the lines of a smoky mezcal paired with fresh herbs, or a fruity rum base mixed with locally sourced berries and spices. The bar’s commitment to zero-waste extends to every detail, from edible garnishes to minimizing waste in drink preparation. At Bisou, no two cocktails are alike, ensuring a unique and unforgettable experience each visit.
Bisou
15 Boulevard du Temple, 75003 Paris
Renowned for its vibrant cocktail menu and effortlessly cool vibe. Known for pairing inventive drinks with a dynamic raw bar, this hotspot offers a seasonal menu that changes with the freshest market ingredients. Highlights include the “Kimchi Bloody Mary,” a bold, umami-packed twist on the classic with fermented kimchi spice, and the “Celestial Sour,” a citrus-forward blend of gin, fresh lime, and a frothy egg white finish. For a more tropical experience, the “Pineapple & Sage Daiquiri” delivers a refreshing burst of flavors, balancing sweetness with herbal undertones. Le Mary Celeste’s cocktails are as eclectic as its atmosphere, making it a must-visit for those seeking expertly crafted drinks in one of Paris's most stylish settings.
Le Mary Celeste
1 Rue Commines, 75003
Deeply tucked away in the hidden depths of the 1K Hotel in Paris hip Haut Marais, La Mezcaleria is a speakeasy-style bar that transports you straight to the heart of Mexico. To find this secret gem, enter the hotel and venture past the reception and through a discreet door at the back, leading into a vibrant, candle-lit space filled with Mexican art. The cocktail menu here is a mezcal lover’s dream, offering bold and smoky concoctions. Standout drinks include the “Mezcal Negroni,” which swaps gin for mezcal, giving the classic a sultry, smoky twist, and the “Guava Margarita,” a tangy blend of mezcal, guava, and fresh lime. For those feeling adventurous, the “Oaxaca Sour” delivers a rich, layered experience with its mix of mezcal, citrus, agave syrup, and a frothy egg white finish. La Mezcaleria’s drinks, paired with its intimate atmosphere, make it a destination for those seeking an exotic cocktail journey in the heart of Paris.
La Mezcaleria
13 Boulevard du Temple, 75003