As speakeasy aficionados know, there are plenty of hidden bars tucked away in Paris's Marais district. Since last spring, Paris's famous rue Saint Denis has been putting on a show with the opening of a magnificent secret bar.
The name? The Liquorium. This veritable cabinet of curiosities is hidden away in the basement of The Drink Doctor bar/brasserie. Descending the stairs, we discover the fantastic and enigmatic world of The Drink Doctor.
In this secret workshop, we are immersed in the Doctor's world and discover his pharmacopoeia and mixological remedies.
Behind this new hidden cocktail bar are Vincent Radix and Thomas Rochefort. Drawing on their experience in the entertainment and film industries, the two acolytes have imagined a place that's an invitation to travel, with a breathtaking decor featuring objects found just about everywhere. A particular highlight is the mural created by artist Lucie Legrand.
As for the menu, the Liquorium offers no fewer than 8 creative cocktails (available for between 12 and 14 euros) and 2 non-alcoholic cocktails (8 euros), designed by head barmaid Audrey Charpenat.
Rum lovers won't be able to resist the " Death Black Spot ", featuring Havana 7-year-old rum, spiced sailor jerry rum, coconut cream, guava juice, Tasmanian pepper, black curry and coconut ball. Gin lovers will love the " Aphro-Therapie " cocktail, featuring Lord of Barbes gin, elderflower liqueur, lemongrass shrub and house cardamom, fresh verbena and lemongrass, sparkling water, tonic, egg whites and primrose.
And to take the experience a step further, the Liquorium invites mixologist apprentices to make their own potions using the Drink Doctor's grimoire. Test tubes and all the necessary equipment are at your disposal, under the watchful eye and expert advice of a barman, to make your chosen recipes. Among the possible combinations is the"Pisco Pop" (Pisco, dehydrated mint leaves and spinach, lemon juice, cane sugar, sparkling water and rosemary).
This experience, for 4 to 6 people, allows you to make a dozen cocktails over 1h30 to 2h (€125).
So, would you like to play mixologist apprentice or simply discover the capital's trendiest new hidden bar?
Head to the 1st arrondissement and push open the doors of Doctor Drink's practice, the Liquorium!
Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health. Drink in moderation.
Please note that it's been over 4 years since our last visit, so the place and experience may have changed.
Location
The Drink Doctor
9 Rue Saint-Denis
75001 Paris 1
Official website
www.facebook.com
More information
Open Wednesday from 8:00 pm to 1:00 am, then Thursday to Saturday from 8:00 pm to 2:00 am.