Location: Place Vendome, the royal square designed by Jules Hardouin-Mansart in 1698
Hotel: The Oh, My God, Ritz dating from 1898
Bartender: Colin Field, congenial host and ingenious cocktail master

Yes, it is true that a cocktail at the Hemingway bar will set you back about 25 euros, but the historic, elegant surroundings and classy drinks are worthy of extravagance. Find something to be celebratory about and cast frugality aside. Ladies’ drinks are served with flowers and genuine attempts are made to make guests feel welcome.

Ernest Hemingway memorabilia adorns the wood-paneled room.

Although he frequented many watering holes in Paris, the Hotel Ritz was one of his favorite haunts. When the Allies liberated the city at the end of WWll, Hemingway headed for the bar at the Ritz and let it be known that the big party was about to begin.

Let 2001 Barman of the Year, Colin Field, design a cocktail for you, based on your mood and preferences. If he suggests a “Sidecar” be advised that this drink, which is made with rare, old cognac, is considered to be the most expensive cocktail in the world, at 400 euros a pop. Is this what they mean by liquid assets?

Hemingway Bar
Ritz Hotel, 15 Place Vendome
1st Arrondisement
Metro: Opera
www.ritzparis.com
Open until 2am Tuesday through Saturday

Hotels are not just for sleeping anymore. Some of the world’s coolest bars are sequestered away behind glitzy addresses. Paris has its share of extraordinary drinks served in extraordinary settings.