Hey there, fellow night owl—welcome to the 9th Arrondissement’s bar scene
If you think Paris is just about baguettes, berets, and that awkward “I don’t know how to pronounce this thing” moment with wine, you’re missing out. The 9th arrondissement? Oh, this is where Parisians get *real* weird with their drinks. Think speakeasies that smell like your grandma’s perfume, cocktail menus written in hieroglyphics, and bartenders who’ve probably seen your ex in the mirror. Let’s get to the good stuff.
The 9th Arrondissement: Paris’ Hidden Booze Bible
The 9th arrondissement is to bars what a Michelin star is to a croissant—over-the-top, a little pretentious, but 100% worth it. Located between the Champs-Élysées (because why not?) and the Seine (for maximum Instagram clout), this area is a goldmine for bars that’ll make you question if you’re in a movie set or just really drunk. Spoiler: It’s not just about the drinks. It’s about the *experience*. And if you’re not experiencing it, are you even Parisian?
Bars in the 9th That’ll Make You Say “Je Suis Trop Bête”
1. Le Ciel (17 Rue Saint-Honoré, 75001)
If you’ve ever wanted to sip a cocktail while pretending you own a yacht, Le Ciel is your spot. Their rooftop bar isn’t just a view—it’s a *statement*. The “Le Ciel Spritz” (Aperol, prosecco, and a whisper of sophistication) is so good, it’ll make you forget your ex ever existed. Pro tip: Arrive before 10 PM, or risk being trampled by influencers in Louboutins.
2. The Velvet Lounge (45 Boulevard Haussmann, 75009)
This speakeasy is the Parisian version of a secret handshake. You don’t find it—*it* finds you. Hidden behind a bookshelf (yes, really), The Velvet Lounge serves up Old Fashioneds that taste like they’ve been aged in a 1920s jazz club. The bartenders here are so good at their jobs, they might ask you for your life story just to know what to mix. Also, no phones allowed. Because Parisians know you can’t ruin a moment with a photo.
3. La Rotonde (2 Place Clichy, 75009)
If the 9th arrondissement had a crown, La Rotonde would be the jeweler. This bar is where Hemingway’s ghost probably wrote his next novel. The “Parisian Painkiller” (rum, pineapple, coconut, and a splash of “I’m culturally relevant”) is so popular, they’ve had to start charging in Bitcoin. And yes, the wait for a seat is 45 minutes. Because why not turn waiting into an art form?
How to Choose the Right Bar (Without Looking Like a Tourist)
- Read the vibes: If the bar has more than one person in it, it’s probably a trap.
- Follow the locals: If someone’s wearing a beret, they’re either a tourist or they’re here for the “artistic energy.”
- Check the lighting: The dimmer the better. Bright lights are for hospitals and IKEA.
- Ask questions: “What’s the most popular drink here?” (Spoiler: It’s probably something with “velvet” in the name.)
Why the 9th Arrondissement is Your New Booze BFF
Let’s be real: The 9th arrondissement is a vibe. It’s where Parisians go to flex their “I live here” credentials while sipping drinks that cost more than your rent. The bars here are less about the alcohol and more about the *experience*—like a theme park for adults. And if you’re lucky, you’ll end the night with a story (and maybe a hangover) you’ll never forget.
Bars to Avoid Because They’re Overrated (But You’ll Probably Still Go)
Sorry, but some bars are just Parisian versions of TikTok trends. Le Bar de l’Avenue is the Parisian equivalent of a viral dance—it looks cool until you realize it’s just someone shaking a bottle for an hour. And don’t even get me started on Café de l’Entrecôte… unless you really love steak and ignoring your date for 15 minutes while they explain it.
FAQs: Because You Probably Have Questions (And So Do We)
What’s the best time to visit a bar in the 9th arrondissement?
Arrive before 9 PM if you want to avoid the Parisian version of a mosh pit. After 11 PM? It’s either a party or a protest—hard to tell which.
Do I need to speak French to order a drink?
Not unless you want to flirt with the bartender. The menus are in English, and the waiters will nod at everything you say. Just don’t ask for a “whiskey and Coke.” That’s not a Parisian phrase.
Can I use my credit card?
Depends on how Parisian the bar is. If it’s fancy, you’ll need cash. If it’s trying to be fancy, it’ll accept Apple Pay. But don’t be surprised if the card machine breaks twice.
Call to Action: Time to Get Tipsy (Responsibly)
If you’re ready to trade your tourist shoes for some real Parisian swagger, start sipping in the 9th arrondissement. Check out dropt.beer/make-your-own-beer for tips on crafting your own Parisian-inspired cocktails at home. And if you’re running a bar? dropt.beer/grow-your-business-with-strategies-beer has all the SEO tips you need to compete with Hemingway’s ghost.
Still not convinced? Fine. But when you’re sipping a “Parisian Painkiller” at La Rotonde and someone asks where you got it, just say, “Oh, you know, the 9th arrondissement.” They’ll instantly think you’re a local. And maybe even invite you to their art gallery opening. Parisian status achieved.
Pro tip: If you’re looking to sell your own beer in this vibe, check out Dropt.beer. Because even Parisians need a place to distribute their artisanal IPAs.
