A Travel Guide to Nightlife in Paris

Paris night life can start during the day. This guide offers a preview of just a few of the choices of Paris bars. Always drink safely and call a cab if needed. Though drinking laws in Paris are more liberal than in the United States, it is usually not a good idea to bring young children into bars.

Café Charbon, 109 rue Oberkampf 11^th

Phone: 01.43.57.55.13. Web site: http://www.nouveaucasino.net

Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 2 a.m.; Friday and Saturday, 9a.m. to 4 a.m.; Sundays, 9 a.m. to 2 a.m.

Whether you're seeking just a day or night of drinking or also want to gamble at the Nouveau Casino next door, Café Charbon is one authentic Paris bar. Both the bar and the casino are dubbed an integral part of the Parisian music scene. The 1800s-era building typically offers jazz music, and a DJ usually starts spinning records every night around 10 p.m. Fine dining is also on tap, and there are numerous mirrors, booths, and chandeliers contributing to this experience.

Hemingway Bar at the Ritz, Hotel Ritz, 15 pl Vendome 1^st

Phone: 01.43.16.33.65. Web site: http://www.ritzparis.com

Authentically named, this was troubled author Ernest Hemingway's favorite bar. He preferred single malt whiskey, and multiple offerings of that libation are poured daily. Colin Field, voted World's Best Barman in 2001, invented many of the drinks available. Book-signings, conferences, and ability for writers to have their mail delivered are still a major part of the menu at Hemingway Bart at the Ritz. Unique beverages include Cider Ritz, a blend of apple juice and champagne.

Le Fumoir, 6 rue de l'Amiral de-Coligny

Phone: 01.42.92.00.24. Web site: http://www.lefumoir.fr

Considering Le Fumoir faces The Louvre, it's no surprise that paintings are displayed and a library is on site. There is plenty of noise and Parisian ambience for those who would rather not sit in the library. The main hall is usually bustling with activity, and in the warmer months a table outside offers a true Paris experience. Food is also offered, but reservations are recommended - especially for brunch.

Le Piano Vache, 8 rue Laplace

Phone: 01.46.33.75.03. Web site: http://www.lepianovache.com

Located in famous Left Bank, Le Piano Vache in some ways meets the stereotypes of a dark, smoky bar. However, among the possible alcoholics are students and tourists alike, offering a true diverse bar experience. The music is usually 1980s-era pop, and has beer stains and layers of posters on its walls. Nevertheless, it is a kind of shabby chic that many true bar hoppers have enjoyed for decades.