Guide: Best Bars in the 11th arrondissement, Paris

The 11th arrondissement of Paris is a lively district where history and culture intersect in unexpected ways.

Home to iconic landmarks like the historic Place de la Bastille, a symbol of the French Revolution, the area holds deep significance in Parisian heritage. The charming streets around Boulevard Richard-Lenoir are known for their bustling markets, while the lively Oberkampf neighborhood is a hotspot for nightlife, filled with independent music venues and trendy cafés. Cultural treasures like the Atelier des Lumières, an immersive digital art space, add a contemporary edge, making the 11th a compelling mix of tradition and innovation, where old-world Paris and new ideas thrive side by side.

© Condé Nast Traveler - Sarah Sergent (Bastille) © Radio France - Thomas Etcheberry

The 11th arrondissement of Paris is a dynamic and diverse neighborhood, offering an exciting mix of bohemian charm and modern vibrancy.

Known for its thriving food scene, the area is packed with trendy bistros, artisanal bakeries, and natural wine bars, particularly around Oberkampf and rue de Charonne. It’s a cultural haven, with independent art galleries, music venues, and theaters contributing to its lively atmosphere. The 11th also boasts excellent metro connections, making it a breeze to explore other parts of Paris, while its local markets and green spaces, like the Square Maurice Gardette, provide a perfect balance between urban energy and relaxed living.

DIRTY LEMON

Dirty Lemon offers a cocktail experience that's as creative as it is laid-back. The bar's low-lit interiors, featuring a mix of exposed brick, vintage leather seating, and a striking marble bar, create a relaxed, intimate atmosphere perfect for unwinding. The cocktail menu is equally distinctive, with playful, inventive concoctions that blend premium spirits with unexpected ingredients like house-made syrups and exotic fruits. Standout drinks like the signature Dirty Lemon — a clever twist on the classic whiskey sour — capture the spirit of experimentation that defines the space. Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur or just looking for a memorable night out, Dirty Lemon brings an effortlessly cool vibe to Paris' ever-evolving bar scene.

Dirty Lemon

24 Rue de la Folie Méricourt
75011 Paris

@dirtylemon.bar
@bambino_paris

BAMBINO

Best described as a cozy but cool vinyl bar, Bambino a unique blend of music, cocktails, and laid-back charm. The bar’s interior features retro accents with a touch of disco flair—think terrazzo tabletops, mid-century furniture, and vinyl records lining the walls, creating a cool, nostalgic atmosphere. The cocktail menu is as eclectic as the décor, with well-executed classics alongside inventive mixes that incorporate fresh, seasonal ingredients. Standout drinks like the mezcal-based creations and creative riffs on the margarita are a hit with patrons. Whether you're there for the expertly mixed drinks or the vinyl-spun soundtrack, Bambino provides a refreshing and unpretentious take on Parisian nightlife.

Bambino

25 Rue Saint-Sébastien
75011 Paris

BAR PRINCIPAL

Bar Principal is a popular, but understated spot known for its expertly crafted cocktails and sophisticated ambiance. The interior, with its dark wood accents, soft lighting, and minimalistic design, creates a warm, intimate setting that feels both timeless and chic. The drinks menu is a well-curated selection of classic cocktails with a twist, as well as house specialties that highlight seasonal ingredients and creative pairings. Whether sipping on a perfectly balanced Negroni or trying one of the bar’s inventive signature creations, guests are treated to a refined yet unpretentious drinking experience that has earned Bar Principal its reputation as one of Paris’ top cocktail destinations.

Bar Principal

5 Rue du General Renault
75011 Paris

@barprincipalparis
@moonshiner_cocktail_bar

MOONSHINER

Moonshiner, hidden behind a classic pizza parlour is a speakeasy that takes you back to the Prohibition era with its dim lighting and vintage decor. Step through the fridge door and you'll find yourself in an intimate space filled with leather booths, exposed brick, and a jazz-infused ambiance. The cocktail menu pays homage to classic drinks, but with a playful twist—try the smoky Old Fashioned or the Negroni aged in-house for added depth. Moonshiner’s curated whiskey selection is also impressive, offering something for serious aficionados. The combination of its secret entrance and meticulously crafted drinks makes it one of the city's most intriguing spots for a nightcap.

Moonshiner

5 Rue Sedaine
75011 Paris

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