Bar Hemingway

Cuisine

Exceptional cocktails crafted by master mixologists, complemented by a selection of tapas and an extensive single malt whisky collection.

The Vibe

An intimate, club-like sanctuary where conversation flows as smoothly as the cocktails in a hushed, music-free environment.

Bar Hemingway cultivates an atmosphere of refined intimacy that sets it apart from typical hotel bars. With only 25 seats, the space feels exclusive and personal, more akin to a private members' club than a public establishment. The absence of background music is a deliberate choice that enhances the bar's unique character—here, the focus is on conversation, the craft of cocktail-making, and the subtle sounds of ice clinking in crystal glasses. The atmosphere is calm and sophisticated, encouraging guests to settle in for unhurried evenings of quality drinks and meaningful conversation. The classic spirit of the space, combined with its legendary status, attracts a discerning international clientele who appreciate the art of the cocktail and the history embedded in every corner. The warm, wood-paneled interior creates a cozy cocoon effect, making guests feel transported to another era while still enjoying contemporary comfort. Despite its location within one of Paris's most prestigious hotels, Bar Hemingway maintains an approachable elegance. The bartenders' expertise and warm hospitality create a welcoming environment where both cocktail connoisseurs and curious newcomers feel equally at home. The intimate scale ensures personalized attention, with bartenders often engaging guests in discussions about their preferences and crafting bespoke creations.

Decoration

A wood-paneled boudoir adorned with Hemingway memorabilia, where classic elegance meets literary history.

The decoration of Bar Hemingway is a masterful tribute to both classic Parisian elegance and the legendary American writer who made this bar his Parisian refuge. The space is designed as an intimate boudoir, featuring rich wood paneling that creates a warm, enveloping atmosphere. Comfortable leather armchairs invite guests to settle in for extended stays, while the carefully curated lighting casts a soft, flattering glow throughout the space. The walls serve as a gallery dedicated to Ernest Hemingway's memory, decorated with photographs and manuscripts that chronicle the writer's connection to Paris and the Ritz. These historical elements transform the bar into a living museum, where every corner tells a story. The decor evokes the spirit of 1920s Paris, when Hemingway and other Lost Generation writers made the city their creative home. The bar itself is a work of art, where guests can watch the bartenders perform their craft with precision and flair. The classic design elements—from the wood paneling to the leather seating—create a timeless aesthetic that has remained largely unchanged over the decades, preserving the authentic character that has made this bar legendary. The intimate scale of the space, with its 25 seats carefully arranged, ensures that every guest feels part of an exclusive experience while maintaining the warm, welcoming atmosphere that defines true Parisian hospitality.

Uniqueness

A 25-seat cocktail sanctuary led by one of the world's most celebrated bartenders, where a €1,500 cocktail and 35 years of mixology mastery define legendary status.

Bar Hemingway's uniqueness begins with its legendary barman, Colin Field, who has been crafting cocktails at this iconic location for 35 years. His expertise and reputation have made him one of the most celebrated bartenders in the world, and his presence—along with that of Anne-Sophie Prestail—elevates every visit into an encounter with true masters of the craft. This continuity and expertise are rare in the hospitality industry and represent a living connection to decades of cocktail history. The bar's intimate scale is another defining feature. With only 25 seats, Bar Hemingway offers an exclusivity that larger establishments cannot match. This limited capacity ensures personalized attention and creates an atmosphere where every guest feels like a privileged insider rather than just another customer. The small size also contributes to the bar's club-like atmosphere, where regulars and newcomers alike become part of a select community. The Ritz Sidecar, priced at €1,500, stands as one of the world's most expensive cocktails and represents the ultimate expression of luxury mixology. This extraordinary drink is more than just a cocktail—it's an experience that embodies the bar's commitment to excellence and its willingness to push the boundaries of what a cocktail can be. The bar's location within the Ritz Paris adds another layer of prestige. Being part of one of the world's most legendary hotels means that Bar Hemingway benefits from the Ritz's impeccable standards of service and its rich history. The connection to Ernest Hemingway himself—a regular patron who lent his name to the bar—creates a tangible link to literary history that few establishments can claim. Finally, the deliberate absence of music sets Bar Hemingway apart from virtually every other bar in Paris. This choice creates a unique acoustic environment where conversation and the sounds of cocktail preparation take center stage, offering a refreshing alternative to the typical bar experience.

Insider Tips

Reserve ahead for this 25-seat sanctuary, dress appropriately (no shorts after 5 PM), and arrive early to secure the best seats for watching the masters at work.

While reservations are not mandatory at Bar Hemingway, we strongly recommend making one, especially for evening visits. With only 25 seats available, the bar can fill quickly, particularly during peak hours and tourist seasons. Calling ahead at +33 1 43 16 33 74 ensures you won't be disappointed. Timing your visit strategically can enhance your experience. Arriving when the bar opens at 5 PM gives you the best chance of securing a seat at the bar itself, where you can watch Colin Field or Anne-Sophie Prestail work their magic up close. This front-row view of the cocktail-making process is part of the experience and allows for direct interaction with the bartenders, who are known for their engaging personalities and willingness to discuss their craft. Be mindful of the dress code—proper attire is required, and shorts are not permitted after 5 PM. Bar Hemingway maintains the elegant standards of the Ritz Paris, so dressing appropriately shows respect for the establishment and ensures you'll feel comfortable in the refined atmosphere. Think smart casual at minimum, with many guests opting for more formal attire. If you're interested in trying the legendary Ritz Sidecar at €1,500, consider making this known when you reserve. While it's available to any guest, advance notice allows the bar to ensure they have everything needed to prepare this extraordinary cocktail properly. For those who want to enjoy some food with their drinks, remember that tapas are available from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM. Arriving during this window allows you to pair your cocktails with small plates, making for a more complete evening experience. The bar's location at 15 Place Vendôme means parking can be challenging in this central Paris location. We recommend using the nearby Madeleine or Vendôme parking facilities, or better yet, taking a taxi or using public transportation to avoid parking concerns altogether. Finally, don't hesitate to engage with the bartenders about your preferences. Their expertise extends far beyond the menu, and they're skilled at creating bespoke cocktails tailored to individual tastes. This personalized approach is part of what makes Bar Hemingway special, so take advantage of their knowledge and creativity.

Must-try Dishes

Serendipity, French 75, Ritz Sidecar, Mach 2, Dry Martini