My favorite bar in Paris is a secret one. Imagine walking in a taqueria, a very small casual spot. (also keep in mind, Paris does not have many taquerias-this is not California!).
You walk past the people having dinner toward the back to a door that looks like it goes to a back kitchen or storage. Keep your head high; walk confidently like you know what you're doing.
Push through the door and inside you discover a hidden cave bar! You would never know it was there unless someone told you.
The speakeasy is called Candelaria. I was introduced to this place by Maggie in 2012. She had been living in Paris for a few months, so learned some of the local spots. She brought Allison, Amy, & me here for one last drink after dinner. I also returned to Candelaria in 2016 with a nice couple from Copenhagen we met at dinner. It's always fun!
Candelaria was a finalist in 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015 for "Best International Cocktail Bar" by Tales of the Cocktail's Spirited Awards. Cocktails Spirits named it "Top 10 Bars in Europe" in 2012. It was also listed in the "World's 50 Best Bars" in 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015.
Even the restrooms are interesting:
