Elektrownia Powiśle
Evoking the decadent spirit of the Roaring Twenties, it’s not just the drinks of Urszula Trochimiak and Karol Rychlewic that have impressed, but also a program of events that include jam sessions, jazz concerts, DJ sets and weekly English comedy nights. Set in an atmospheric basement, they’re also rolling out Gatsby Rooftop in time for July!
Nowogrodzka 15
Black and white photos referencing the history of this former gentleman’s atelier gaze from the walls onto a compact interior heaving with brass, terrazzo and blue velvet finishes. A café by day, come evening Zaremba moves into cocktail territory with sophisticated drinks crafted from premium components. Overlooking the corner of lively Nowogrodzka, the wooden deck affords prime people watching opportunities.
Poznańska 7
Run by the maverick Funky Fluid brewery, San Escobar feels like the odd one out on this list – lacking airs and graces, it’s a place where fun rules the roost. Tiny in size, find an interior filled with corrugated iron sheets, zappy neons, chunky woods and bike pedals on the footrests. The fun-loving spirits is irresistible, and the tight dimensions mean the party often spills onto the terrace outside.
Norblin Factory
Many will remember 2023 as the year Warsaw fell back in love with the luxury lifestyle. Of the upscale openings, none made a bigger splash than the bar-club crossover MOXO, an exclusive space featuring Poland’s tallest bar (12 metres!), Nikkei cuisine, and a stringent door policy aimed at keeping the riff raff at bay.
Krucza 16/22
Split into different areas, each with its own dark and voluptuous colour scheme, the sensual, velvety Grace mixes an air of 80s excess with a design that verges on bordello chic. Operating as a late night cocktail spot, the drinks are highly affordable despite the premium clientele.