You think Parisians are rude and unfriendly? Think again my friend, and head to Le Social Bar, a place where cocktails are a work of art, challenges are met with free shots and strangers become lifelong friends. Established in 2016, Le Social Bar isn’t your typical French watering hole; it’s a social revolution disguised as a 300-square-meter bar.
Located in the 12th arrondissement, just a stone’s throw from Gare de Lyon, this little gem has nestled itself in one of the city’s most dynamic business districts. Perfect for the overworked professionals yearning for a place to relax and unwind.
But this isn’t just a bar; it’s a co-working space by day, a sandwich haven at lunchtime and a social experiment at night.
Have I piqued your curiosity yet?
Focus on friends
The most straight-forward way to describe Le Social Bar is like a best friend who knows how to throw the best parties. It’s not just a place to sip on delicious homemade cocktails; it’s a social laboratory where friendships are crafted, and memories are etched in a delightful haze of camaraderie.
How so, you may ask?
Well, firstly, they invented a whole new job: the Agent of Conviviality. Their role is to make sure you have a blast, and that you meet new people! Sounds better than Hinge or Tinder am I right? These social maestros are like modern-day matchmakers, except they’re matchmaking you with fun experiences and new friends.
If you’re up for a challenge, they’re ready to take you on. Win or lose, it doesn’t matter; you might just find yourself toasting your victory with a free shot.
Rather than getting to know people through alcohol and poor judgement, you can now meet them through alcohol, poor judgement and fun activities.
They also organise themed nights, and trust me, there’s always something exciting happening. The bar hosts themed nights like “Alors on chante?” (So, shall we sing?), “Alors, on danse?” (So, shall we dance? – but you know that, you’ve probably listened to “Papaoutai” by Stromae a gazillion time, I see you), “Ça fait longtemps qu’on s’est pas vus!” (It’s been a while!), “Fêtons ça quand même!” (Let’s celebrate, anyway!).
If you’re French is up to snuff, you can hear the founder David explain the concept here.
Fun … and socially responsible
These nights are infused with interactive games like challenge cards, social phones, and tables for strangers – everything you need to break the ice and connect with fellow revelers. Le Social Bar doesn’t discriminate when it comes to celebrations. From birthdays to farewells, promotions to breakups, they’ve got you covered.
Expect a shoulder to cry on or a toast to your success – the choice is yours. They even throw failure parties, because sometimes, failing is worth celebrating.
Did you mess up that exam? Divorce? Bring on your party shoes baby, we’re in for a boogie.
After all, we live on a tiny rock floating through space at thousands of miles an hour, so pardon my French but fuck it let’s party!
If music is your passion, you’re in for a treat. Le Social Bar boasts a stage with instruments, a karaoke room for aspiring pop stars, and even a confessional with pipes for sharing secrets with strangers. It’s a hub of creative expression and connection, where even a solo traveler can become part of an impromptu band.
It’s not just fun and games; Le Social Bar is also socially responsible. A portion of their profits is donated to charitable causes, making your nights out not only memorable but also meaningful. It’s a place where you can sip your cocktail knowing you’re making a positive impact on the world.
Doesn’t this sound like the best deal ever?
Last but not least, if my post wasn’t convincing enough (I would be very offended if that was the case, let’s take this outside Robert), Le Social Bar is won the Time Out’s “Best Bar in Paris” award twice, and is the recipient of the “Social and Solidarity Economy Trophy of Paris”.
Le Social Bar is a testament to the power of social innovation and camaraderie. It’s a place where you can step out of your comfort zone and into a world of delightful chaos and connection. So, next time you’re in Paris, make sure you head to Le Social Bar. Whether you’re with friends or flying solo, it’s a place where every night is an adventure and every stranger is a potential friend.
Cheers to Le Social Bar, where fun, friendship, and fabulousness collide!
Le Social Bar
25, rue Villiot, 75012 Paris
[email protected] – 06 72 98 69 05
Opened until 1.30am Tuesday-thru-Saturday
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Read more about Paris here in Dispatches’ archives.
Read more from Charlotte here.
Charlotte Laborie grew up in England, Belgium and Switzerland. Charlotte then moved to Paris and graduated from Sciences Po Paris. She is still based in Paris, where she works in marketing.
