Exploring the Speakeasy Culture in Nice: Where to Find the Best Secret Bars

Nice, the picturesque city of the French Riviera, is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning architecture, and delectable cuisine. However, what many visitors do not know is that Nice is home to some of the most impressive speakeasies in France. A speakeasy, a term coined in the 1920s, refers to a hidden bar that operates illegally during the prohibition era. Nowadays, speakeasies have become popular in the world of mixology, with bartenders creating unique and experimental cocktails, while also preserving the mystery and glamour of the 1920s era. In this blog post, we will explore some of the best speakeasies in Nice that offer a glimpse into the city’s hidden culture.

La Comédie du Vin

Located in the heart of Old Nice, La Comédie du Vin is a wine bar known for its cosy atmosphere and delectable wine selection. To enter this speakeasy, you’ll need to know the secret password or ring the hidden doorbell. Once inside, the dimly lit interiors and the old-fashioned decor transport you back in time. The bartenders are skilled in traditional French cocktails, and they serve generous glasses of wine alongside tapas plates. The wine list is extensive, and you can find many bottles that are hard to come by elsewhere in the city.

Le Magnan

Le Magnan is a hidden speakeasy behind a wooden door, located down the narrow streets of Nice. The bar is small, with only a few tables, but it offers a unique ambiance that feels like a secret hideout. You can expect to find some of the best cocktails in Nice at Le Magnan, with mixologists creating exceptional drinks infused with herbs and spices. The bartenders are knowledgeable about classic cocktail recipes and can make you a drink based on your taste preference.

Le Boudoir

Located in the bustling rue Bonaparte neighbourhood, Le Boudoir is a hidden speakeasy that recently opened its doors. To enter, you’ll need to ring the doorbell and wait for a host to usher you in. Once inside, the decor is opulent, with plush velvet chairs, crystal chandeliers, and a marble bar. Le Boudoir serves an extensive collection of whiskeys, gins, and rums that you can enjoy neat or in a cocktail. The bartenders here are skilled and can quickly whip up any drink you desire. The atmosphere is perfect for a romantic evening out or a swanky night with friends.

L’Intemporel

L’Intemporel is a charming speakeasy located near the Promenade des Anglais, one of the most popular spots in Nice. The entryway is hidden behind a blue door, and you’ll need to ring the doorbell to gain entry. Once inside, you’ll be transported to a 1920s-era salon, with velvet armchairs, black and white tiles, and dimly lit lamps. The cocktail list is creative, with mixologists not afraid to experiment with different flavour combinations. L’Intemporel is the perfect spot for a pre-dinner drink or an intimate night out.

In conclusion, Nice is a city that offers much more than just beautiful beaches and stunning scenery. The speakeasy culture here is alive and thriving, and you can experience it by visiting some of the city’s hidden bars. La Comédie du Vin, Le Magnan, Le Boudoir, and L’Intemporel are the best speakeasies in Nice, which offer a unique blend of glamour, mystery, and mixology. So, the next time you’re in Nice, make sure to enjoy the hidden gems of the city by discovering these iconic speakeasies.