When it comes to Bars, we’re not just talking about any old watering hole. No, we’re talking about the crème de la crème of cocktail joints, the places that will leave you shaken, not stirred. From the weird to the wonderful, these bars are a cut above the rest, offering an experience that’s as much about the atmosphere as it is about the drinks themselves. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the top 10 most interesting bars in the world.
The Ice Hotel Bar, Quebec, Canada
Tucked away in the snowy wilds of Quebec, Canada, the Ice Hotel Bar is a winter wonderland unlike any other. As its name suggests, this bar is made entirely out of ice – 30,000 tons of it, to be exact. Everything from the walls to the glasses is crafted from this frosty material, making it a truly one-of-a-kind drinking experience. But be warned, the temperatures are as chilly as the drinks are cool, so wrap up warm before venturing inside.
A Sip of Something Special
The Ice Hotel Bar’s pièce de résistance is its selection of cocktails, each one carefully crafted to complement the icy surroundings. From the “Iceberg” (a frozen shot of vodka served in an ice glass, naturally) to the “Polar Bear” (a sweet and sour mix of cranberry juice and vodka), every drink on the menu is designed to warm the cockles of your heart, if not your fingers.
The Clinic Bar, Singapore
For those who like a side of medical drama with their drinks, The Clinic Bar in Singapore is the perfect prescription. This surreal speakeasy is designed to look like a hospital, complete with nurses, doctors, and even a “pharmacy” dispensing medicinal cocktails.
A Shot of Whimsy
But don’t worry, the only illness you’ll be treated for here is a bad case of the Mondays. The Clinic Bar’s menu features an array of tongue-in-cheek cocktails, each one designed to “cure” a different ailment. From the “Antidote” (a sweet and sour mix of gin, lemon, and honey) to the “Vaccine” (a spicy shot of tequila and ginger), every drink is carefully crafted to leave you feeling better than when you arrived.
The Piano Works, London, UK
Music lovers, rejoice! The Piano Works in London’s West End is a bar like no other. This sprawling underground complex combines a cocktail bar with a live music venue, featuring a rotating pianist who takes requests from the audience. Whether you’re in the mood for jazz, rock, or something a little more classical, the talented team at The Piano Works will have you tapping your toes in no time.
Tinkling the Ivories
But what really sets this bar apart is its commitment to live music. With a grand piano at its center, The Piano Works is the perfect spot to indulge your inner music lover. And with a menu featuring cocktails named after famous tunes, you can even raise a glass to your favorite musical numbers.
The Black Rabbit, Melbourne, Australia
Tucked away in the alleys of Melbourne, The Black Rabbit is a speakeasy like no other. This secretive spot is hidden behind a nondescript door, with no signs or advertisements to give away its presence. But once you step inside, you’ll be transported to a world of mystery and intrigue.
Secret Ingredients
The Black Rabbit’s menu is as secretive as the bar itself, with cocktails named only by their ingredients. But don’t worry, the expert bartenders will guide you through the options, recommending everything from a classic gin martini to something a little more experimental. And if you’re feeling peckish, the bar snacks are just as tasty as the drinks.
The Alchemist, Various Locations, UK
With multiple locations across the UK, The Alchemist is a chain of bars that’s anything but ordinary. This mystical drinking den combines Victorian-era apothecary chic with a dash of steampunk flair, resulting in a drinking experience that’s as much about the atmosphere as it is about the cocktails.
Potions and Elixirs
The Alchemist’s menu is filled with cleverly named cocktails, each one designed to look and taste like a magical potion. From the “Smokey Old Fashioned” (a twist on the classic, served in a smoking flask) to the “Elixir of Life” (a fruity mix of gin, lemon, and rose petal), every drink is carefully crafted to transport you to a world of fantasy and wonder.
Bar 54, New York City, USA
Perched high above the city streets, Bar 54 is the highest rooftop bar in New York City. With breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline, this swanky spot is the perfect place to see and be seen.
High-Altitude Cocktails
But it’s not just the views that make Bar 54 stand out – the cocktails are pretty impressive too. From classic negronis to more experimental concoctions, the expert bartenders will guide you through the menu, recommending everything from a refreshing summer sipper to a warming winter warmer. And if you’re feeling hungry, the bar snacks are top-notch too.
The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town, London, UK
This East London hidden gem is a bar like no other. Tucked away behind a secret door in a trendy coffee shop, The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town is a surreal drinking den that’s equal parts weird and wonderful.
Bizarre Libations
The menu is just as bizarre as the bar itself, featuring cocktails with names like “The Flaming Homer” (a fiery mix of tequila, pineapple, and chili) and “The Flying Feline” (a whimsical mix of gin, lemon, and catnip). But don’t worry, the expert bartenders will guide you through the options, recommending everything from a classic gin martini to something a little more… unusual.
The Sky Garden, London, UK
Perched high above the city streets, The Sky Garden is a tranquil oasis in the heart of London. This free public garden offers stunning views of the city, as well as a tropical garden filled with exotic plants and flowers.
Garden of Eden
But what really sets The Sky Garden apart is its bar, which offers a range of refreshing cocktails perfect for sipping in the sun. From a classic Pimm’s to something a little more exotic, every drink on the menu is carefully crafted to complement the tranquil surroundings. And if you’re feeling peckish, the bar snacks are delicious too.
Tiki No, Virginia, USA
Tucked away in the heart of Virginia, Tiki No is a retro tiki bar that’s a blast from the past. This kitschy spot combines vintage decor with a menu of classic tiki cocktails, resulting in a drinking experience that’s as much about the atmosphere as it is about the drinks.
Island Vibes
From the “Scorpion” (a classic mix of rum, orange, and pineapple) to the “Zombie” (a fruity mix of rum, pineapple, and cherry), every cocktail on the menu is carefully crafted to transport you to a tropical paradise. And with a decor that’s straight out of the 1950s, you’ll feel like you’re sipping on a beachside patio, even in the middle of winter.
There you have it – 10 of the most interesting bars in the world. From ice hotels to tiki bars, each one of these unique drinking dens offers an experience that’s as much about the atmosphere as it is about the drinks. So why settle for a boring old pub when you could be sipping on a medicinal cocktail in a hospital-themed bar, or enjoying a rooftop drink with a view of the Manhattan skyline? The world is full of weird and wonderful bars, and with this list, you’re just a step away from discovering them.
What makes a bar “interesting”?
A bar can be considered “interesting” for a variety of reasons. It could be due to its unique theme, unusual decor, or exclusive drinks menu. Some bars may offer an immersive experience, such as a speakeasy-style hideaway or a bar set in a historical landmark. Others may feature talented mixologists who create innovative cocktails or offer personalized drinks service. Whatever the reason, an interesting bar is one that offers something memorable and sets itself apart from the typical drinking establishment.
Ultimately, what makes a bar interesting is subjective and can vary from person to person. Some people may be drawn to bars with a lively atmosphere and live music, while others may prefer a more intimate setting with expertly crafted cocktails. The bars featured in this article offer something unique and special, whether it’s an incredible view, an unusual activity, or an exceptional drinks menu.
Are these bars suitable for all ages?
Not all of the bars featured in this article are suitable for all ages. Some may have age restrictions or be geared towards a specific demographic, such as a young adult crowd or a sophisticated audience. It’s essential to research the bar beforehand to ensure it’s appropriate for your age group or party.
Additionally, some bars may have specific rules or regulations, such as dress codes or membership requirements. It’s crucial to check the bar’s website or contact them directly before visiting to confirm their policies and ensure a smooth experience.
Can I visit these bars if I don’t drink alcohol?
While the primary focus of the bars featured in this article is their unique drinks menus, many of them also offer non-alcoholic options. Some may have a selection of mocktails, virgin cocktails, or soft drinks available. However, it’s always best to check with the bar beforehand to confirm their non-alcoholic offerings.
That being said, these bars often offer more than just their drinks menu. Many of them feature exceptional food menus, live music, or other forms of entertainment. So, even if you don’t drink alcohol, you can still enjoy the atmosphere and other offerings of these interesting bars.
Are these bars expensive?
The cost of visiting these bars can vary greatly, depending on the location, drinks menu, and overall experience. Some bars may be relatively affordable, with prices similar to those of a typical drinking establishment. Others may be more upscale, with higher prices for their expertly crafted cocktails and exclusive atmosphere.
It’s essential to research the bar beforehand to get an idea of their pricing and plan your visit accordingly. If you’re on a budget, you may want to consider visiting during happy hour or looking for special deals or promotions.
Can I book a table or make a reservation?
Some of the bars featured in this article may offer table bookings or reservations, while others may not. It’s best to check the bar’s website or contact them directly to confirm their reservation policy. This is especially important if you’re planning to visit with a large group or during peak hours.
Even if a bar doesn’t take reservations, it’s still a good idea to plan ahead. You may want to arrive early to secure a spot or consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid long wait times.
Are these bars safe and secure?
The safety and security of the bars featured in this article vary, just like any other establishment. However, most bars take the safety and security of their patrons very seriously. They often have security personnel on site, especially during peak hours or late at night.
That being said, it’s still essential to take common-sense precautions when visiting any bar. Be aware of your surroundings, keep an eye on your drinks and belongings, and avoid leaving with strangers. If you do encounter any issues or concerns, don’t hesitate to speak with bar staff or security.
Can I take photos or videos inside the bar?
The policy on photography and videography varies from bar to bar. Some may allow it, while others may have strict rules against it. It’s always best to ask bar staff or management beforehand to confirm their policy.
Even if photography is allowed, be respectful of other patrons and avoid using flash or disrupting the atmosphere. Remember to also respect the bar’s decor and intellectual property, avoiding photos of exclusive drinks recipes or proprietary designs.