Shaken Not Stirred

A bar fit for Bond opens in the Old Town…

Opened to coincide with the 25th anniversary of their first outpost, the Bar & Books empire sees Warsaw added to their locations in Prague and New York. There’s an enchanting quality about the new venture that arouses curiosity: seen through an autumnal mist, this pristine townhouse radiates warmth. Lights glimmer, piano music tinkles – you want to find out more. Wood-paneled and lined with leather-bound tomes, there’s a sense of dignity that’s unique to Warsaw’s cocktail scene. There’s humor, as well, and not just provided by the portraits of chimps togged out like gentry: once a month, Burlesque performances revive the past. Even on quieter nights, B&B’s talent lies in their ability to unplug you from Warsaw. With its cigars and whiskies, the impression is of stepping into a members’ only Mayfair bar. Look, you expect someone to point, that’s Prince Harry’s ex-girlfriend. For sure, you’d happily take her here. Certainly for the cocktails: classic with a twist, find them mixed and muddled by charming bartenders who you’d trust serving Bond – and yes, find him here as well, keeping a watchful eye from a screen that loops silent 007 films around the clock…

Bar and Books
ul. Wąski Dunaj 20, barandbooks.pl