Shaking off its reputation as a dreary Soviet relic, Warsaw has arguably the best bar scene in Poland, with visitors to the capital simply spoilt for choice when it comes to the nightlife. Not limited to vodka, Poland’s capital has something for everyone – whether you are a beer, cocktail or whisky-lover. Here are the top 8 bars in Warsaw:
Piw Paw
A beer lover's paradise, Piw Paw has almost 100 varieties of beer on tap and around 200 more in bottles, allowing visitors to enjoy the fascinating variety of beer from all around the world. Customers will definitely be spoilt for choice in this unique bar which has been completely wallpapered with bottle tops. Unable to decide? Lucky for you, Piw Paw allows customers to sample any beer before deciding on which brews to have a pint of. Cider is also served straight from the barrel here. Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, there is no excuse not to check out this bar when in Warsaw.
Panorama Sky Bar
Located on the 40th floor of the Marriott Hotel, this luxurious bar lives up to its name, offering spectacular panoramic views of Warsaw’s skyline. Choose from a wide range of vodkas, through a wide selection of champagnes, to unique cocktails, as DJs supply the music. The skilled bartenders show off their expertise, creating original cocktails and herb-infused alcohols that take your tastebuds on a ride. Favourites include the ‘Beautiful to See’, made with Belvedere Citrus Polish Vodka, Lillet Blanc, raspberries and orange blossom fragrance. The complimentary bar snacks are just another bonus!
Podwale Bar and Books
With dark wood interiors and old books lining the walls, this classy bar is the height of sophistication. All old world glamour, this cigar-bar transports you back in time, and the jovial and knowledgeable bartenders ensure that your visit is more than satisfactory. For an intimate experience, sit at the dimly lit bar, while the balcony and terrace lend themselves to a more romantic ambience. Specialising in high-end and classic cocktails with one of the best Scotch whiskey selections in the city, this isn’t the cheapest bar in Warsaw but Bar and Books is definitely an experience worth shelling out for.
Klar
Known for its casual vibe, this narrow vodka bar on Krakowskie Przedmieście spills onto the street, where garden seating is set up on warmer nights. Offering an extensive selection of top-shelf spirits, this popular bar distinguishes itself by infusing their vodkas with fruit and spices. The flavours range from coconut, raspberry, and honey to the more unusual dandelion and bison grass. Cocktails are also made to order here, with the friendly bartenders happy to concoct a drink according to your own personal tastes.
Coctail Bar Max and Dom Whisky
This cocktail bar is a must-visit. This cozy locale has an impressive alcohol cabinet, but it is the well-trained, inventive bartenders who make this bar a perennially great pitstop. Describe your preferences, and with their hands, they will create the cocktail of your dreams. It is clear that this place was opened not only by enthusiasts, but also people highly knowledgeable about alcohol. There’s even coffee and ice-cream, and the adventure continues in a glass-covered room with cigars and rare whiskeys to the side. An experience like none other, who cares that there’s a “k” missing?
Warszawa Powiśle
Built into the side of a working railroad station in an old ticket office, Warszawa Powiśle is an architectural relic repurposed for modern times. With its flying saucer roof and graphic neon sign, this bar is the pinnacle of retro-futuristic architecture and is popular among the city’s young and hip population. Quickly attaining cult status for its free-flowing alcohol, stop by for a shot of Zubrówka, a vodka that the locals refer to as “Bison” for its strong, plant-like taste, and single blade of grass placed in every bottle.
Plan B
Warsaw’s original dive bar, Plan B is one of the most popular bars in the city and is many locals’ first choice for a night out. A great way to get away from the tourist hot spots, the place is popular with students for its laid-back atmosphere and décor and cheap methods of intoxication. Guaranteeing a good time, Plan B often hosts live music events, with anything from rock to jazz, and proceeds are often donated to humanitarian causes.
Bubbles Bar
This rustic and cosy little venue makes you feel perfectly at home as you enter. Named in homage to champagne, this bar serves a wide variety of the sparkling stuff from all around the world. Guided by the philosophy that fine sparkling wines and champagnes are not just the preserve of the elite, but are the perfect accompaniment to delicious food, this bar simply radiates warmth and friendliness. Offering a wide range of culinary delights to be enjoyed alongside a glass of bubbles, this bar is proof that you can live a champagne lifestyle on a lemonade budget. This is a gastronomic experience not to be missed.
With plentiful options and reasonable prices, Warsaw is a city that invites you to let your hair down and dance the night away! Whether you are a cocktail lover or a whisky aficionado; whether you are looking for a chill place for drinks or for a pumping night at the club, Warsaw has you covered!
