Andrea Kacirova | Live the World
November 23, 2022
Are you tired of exploring historical sites of the capital of Slovakia, but not ready for a bed yet? There is no better way to end your day than jump into one of the local’s favorite bars and have a drink or two. I would like to introduce you to Bratislava’s unique cocktail bars, where baristas know how to get their job done.
Old Fashioned Bar specializes on gin cocktails. You can find here the best Slovak and world brands of gin, mixed into a unique cocktail or an old good gin-tonic. Trust your baristas, they know what they are doing. To prove that, this bar was selected as "The bar of the year 2018 in Slovakia". Prices are a little bit higher than in an average bar in Bratislava, but hey, you get what you pay for. Amazing service and top-quality drinks. The whole atmosphere complements the classy interior and music that makes you feel like you are back in the 1920s. Every little detail has been carefully taught through, to create the best bar in the city. You can tell, owners of the bar, as well as the staff, love their work. On a Friday night and during the weekend, I highly recommend making a reservation, as it can get crowded.
If you don't get a table in Old Fashioned bar, don't worry. Bratislava is a city of great bars, and my suggested alternative would be Michalska Cocktail Room. The interior is slightly similar to Old Fashion bar, so you can expect the Great Gatsby atmosphere here. They have numerous signature drinks with secret recipes, to meet everyone’s taste. Just ask your barmen, they are for sure the best in the science of mixology. Except for secret recipes, the whole place is one big secret, only locals know about. Why? Well...the bar doesn't really exist! There is no main entrance to the bar, no sign, nothing. You need to enter Urban Bistro on Michalská street, and head directly into the wooden closet. You can experience a Narnia moment here, as behind the closet door is a whole new world. If you are in doubt, just ask baristas in Urban Bistro for the secret bar, and they will be happy to navigate you.
Bukowski Bar with its central location and late opening hours (until 3 am) should be definitely a grand finale of your tour de bar. It is an all-time favorite bar, not just among locals but foreigners as well, mainly because of friendly staff, great cocktails and even better prices. I am sure everyone guesses that this bar was named after a famous writer Charles Bukowski. Not only the name of the bar but also the writer's quotes written all over the menu, create a unique atmosphere. And as you might have guessed, the bar is inspired also by other famous writers. You can find on the menu shots like F. S. Fitzgerald, E. M. Remarque, or the names of Slovak writers, and each shot has a short description of the writer and his relationship with alcohol. If you happen to be there, and you are not dizzy yet, take a deeper look on the menu! Except for a great selection of drinks, this place offers very authentic interiors and live music.
Bratislava is not just about historical sites in the city center. It is also a very vibrant city with many creative young adults, who turned their ideas into a reality and gave Bratislava’s nightlife a fresh new look. Even though relatively small when compared to other European capitals, Bratislava offers world-class unique cocktail bars. Have a drink and decide for yourself!
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