This post is also available in: 
English 
Français 
Deutsch
Prague, often referred to as the “Golden City” perched on the Vltava River, stands undoubtedly among the most captivating cities in Europe.
The cityscape is mainly shaped by its awe-inspiring architecture and the rich history that sleeps behind its walls. Prague once served as the imperial capital of the Holy Roman Empire under the Luxemburg dynasty, marked the onset of the Thirty Years’ War, and was home to literary icons like Franz Kafka and Rainer Maria Rilke.
Nowadays, the city is renowned for its vibrant nightlife. Beyond the many beer-pubs and clubs, a solid number of cocktail bars impress with their unique drink concoctions, ambience, and atmosphere. Join us as we tour our top five cocktail bars in Prague – from historic venues and avant-garde havens to hidden gems. Cheers!
1. Hemingway Bar: Karoliny Světlé 26
The Hemingway Bar, with its dark wood furnishings and cosy leather sofas, is the perfect spot for a late-night hangout. The two-tiered setting transports visitors back to the era of the famed American writer and drink enthusiast it’s named after. Here, you can expect some of the most imaginative and avant-garde cocktails period. Their presentation often steals the show; here, it’s rare for drinks to be served in standard glasses. Instead, one might receive a drink in a camera lens, a Christmas bauble, or even a garden gnome! The pièce de résistance, however, is their Absinthe cocktails, poured at the table from traditional fountains. With an ever-evolving menu, every visit promises a new surprise. Though the presentation might overwhelm, the quality of the drinks stands unmatched, rivalling the creativity of the vessels they’re served in.
2. L’Fleur: Staroměstské nám. 29
L’Fleur exudes a French flair not just by name but also with its decor, dominated by antique ceiling fans, chandeliers, and colourful Art Nouveau windows, reminiscent of the Belle Époque era. While it’s a feast for the eyes, L’Fleur also ranks among the city’s best cocktail spots, especially noted for its gin cocktails and premium champagne selection. Recently, L’Fleur has merged with the neighbouring bistrot, allowing guests to combine their delicious drinks with classic French cuisine.
3. The Alchemist: Provaznická 38
With its unique concept, The Alchemist stands out as our personal favourite. The baroque-inspired interior, boasting floral-patterned upholstered chairs, opulent chandeliers, elegantly draped curtains, and framed paintings, is quite the piece of art in itself. True to its name, the establishment plays heavily on themes of alchemy and the occult. Their cocktail menu is a macabre masterpiece: each drink is accompanied by an eerie engraving-like illustration and a cryptic description that intriguingly complements the equally mysterious cocktail titles, like “Black Sun” or “The High Priest.” For those overwhelmed by choices, let Tarot cards dictate your destiny and possibly uncover a secret cocktail not listed on the regular menu. This bar is a must for cocktail lovers who appreciate baroque splendour with a touch of the occult.
4. Black Angel’s Bar: Staroměstské náměstí 29
Situated in the basement of the renowned Hotel U Prince, right on the Old Town Square, the Black Angel’s Bar transports you to an atmospheric setting reminiscent of a Film Noir scene. Nestled in a historic cellar with exposed stone walls, the space is furnished with cosy leather booths under dim lighting. The decor pays homage to the American Prohibition era of the 1930s. With an exhaustive array of spirits, wines, and top-tier cocktails, it’s no wonder Black Angel’s Bar was ranked among the top 10 high-volume cocktail bars globally in 2014. Though it’s no secret spot, it’s undeniably worth a visit.
5. Bartida Degustation Bar & Shop: Havelská 500
To round off our tour, we present a hidden treasure: Bartida Degustation Bar. Tucked away from the main streets of the Old Town in a quaint alley, the bar specialises in expertly crafted cocktails made from rare and limited-edition spirits. Adjacent to the intimate bar space is the house’s own liquor store that holds an incredible range of premium and elusive whiskies, rums, gins, vodkas, and more. Truly, a paradise for spirit aficionados and connoisseurs.
Header picture: Black Angel’s Bar