By Lily Heise

There are thousands of bars in Paris, however, very few of these are perfect for a romantic date. From stunning views over the city to discreet lovers’ hideaways, here are some of the ultimately amorous bars in the City of Love.

Persciption Cocktail Bar

One of the only bars on the Left Bank with a speak-easy atmosphere, once you find your way inside, your date will be wowed by its eccentric décor of plush sofas, curious antiques and cool wallpaper. Add in their inventive cocktails and you’ve got the right perception for a very romantique night out. 

Address: 23 rue Mazarine, 76006.

Metro: Odéon (Lines 4 & 10)

La Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels

This wine bar features a fabulous wine list of only the best natural wines which is paired with a cool contemporary decor, making it the perfect place for wine-lovers’ date. Slip on your succulent wines and nibble on some tasty small plates at a discreet table for two in the dimly-lit backroom or one of their snuggly colorful sofas. 

Address: 7 Rue Lobineau, 75006

Metro: Odéon (Lines 4 & 10) 

Moonshiner 

If you’re looking for a little element of surprise for your date, seek out this secret bar. In true speakeasy style, through a hidden entrance, in this case behind the fridge of the Da Vito Pizzeria. Climbing up to the second floor, you’ve entered their hybrid world, between the 1920’s and the 2000’s with their own blend of vintage vibe and modern flavors. 

Address: 5 rue Sedaine, 75011.

Metro: Bréguet-Sabin (Line 5)

Perchoir du Marais

Who wants to wait in line for hours to go up the Eiffel Tower when you can admire it from a cozy place, cocktail in hand? Found on the top floor of the BHV department store, this is one of the rare rooftop bars in Paris and sister to the Perchoir in the 11th. The ideal lover’ nest in the centre of the city, if the view doesn’t warm your chéri/e’s heart, then enjoying one of their excellent cocktails cozied up in trendy, seasonal environments most certainly will. 

Address: 6 rue de la Verrerie, 75004.

Metro: Hotel de Ville (line 1 & 11)

Shake N’Smash

Just north of the trendy Marais and just south of rebellious Place de la Republique is the eccentric bar, the perfect combination of the district its sandwiched between. The seductive atmosphere is set by a quirky collection of offbeat lamps, leopard print chairs and Salvador Dali spying from overhead. Come for their happy hour special when several of their delicious cocktails are available for only 8 euros, like the tangy Dernier Métro; if your evening goes well perhaps you’ll be taking the last métro home… together? 

Address: 87 rue de Turbigo, 75003

Metro: Temple (Line 3), République (Lines 3,8,9,11)

Experimental Cocktail Club

A Paris evening institute, it was one of the first “serious” new wave cocktail bars in the city. Arriving is part of the surprise as it’s almost unnoticeable from the street, save the massive doorman. Your taste buds will be tantalized with their creative creations and your date’s eyes will look extra sparkling under the chandelier’s sparkle. Love seats were made for lovers weren’t they? Here you’ll allow to service their true purpose.

Address: 37 rue saint-sauveur, 75002

Metro: Sentier (Line 3)

Le Très Honoré

If you want a slightly glamorous date, make your way to this chic bar and restaurant near the Opera Garnier. The golden glow of the antique lamps, the red velour of the corner sofas and the seductively named drinks such as the bisou bisou could transform into some real kisses. The brighter, stylish main floor restaurant evokes all the best of the roaring 20’s. 

Address: 35 Place du Marché Saint-Honoré, 75001.

Metro: Pyramides (Lines 7 & 14) 

Bar les Heures – Prince de Galles

Of all the posh palace hotels, the one outdoes the rest with their outstanding cocktails is the princely bar of the Prince de Galles Hotel (their prices are also a little cheaper than the others, but still expect to pay 20-27 euros). Depending on what you order from their award-winning mixologist’s menu, your cocktail might be prepared before your eyes on their famous drink cart or come misting out of a magic lamp. If the weather cooperates, you can take in the enchanting Arabian Nights feel on the vast interior courtyard. 

Address: 33 ave Georges V, 75008

Metro: Georges V (Lines 1) 

Lulu White

With its magical Belle Epoque feel, step back in time to the heyday of Pigalle and its cabarets at the hipster chic Lulu White. The small bar has some cozy booths and two-person tables which are idea for dates as you sip on their creative concotions and admire your date under the golden hue of the bars kiosk-like lamps. 

Address: 12 ave Frochet, 75009.

Metro: Pigalle (Lines 2 & 12) 

L’Hotel Particulier Montmartre

The village of Montmartre with its spectacular views of Paris and narrow backstreets is home to one of the few bars of the city set in a private mansion. A unique hotel with only a few exclusive rooms, you can enjoy a drink in the plush lounge or the lush garden, making you feel like one of the guests of this former aristocratic residence. 

Address: 23 Avenue Junot, 75018

Metro: Lamrack-Caulaincourt (Line 12) 

For more information on author Lily Heise visit her website Je T’aime, Me Neither