Trendy bars in Oberkampf, République and Saint Martin Canal district
Trendy bars and popular bistros enliven the Oberkampf and République district and the Saint Martin Canal
The huge district between Oberkampf, République and the canal Saint Martin is a lively place to be at night or at the weekend. Artists, bobos and gay people meet up here for a drink or to eat a traditional platter of charcuterie and/or cheese. Old style bistros with their traditional decor, speakeasys, tapas bars or more specialist cocktail bars … This district, which straddles the 10th and 11th arrondissements, is full of venues.
There are lots of places to eat and drink along rue Oberkampf, such as Café Charbon, dating back to 1900. It has Second Empire decor and a popular terrace. Aux Deux Amis, a not-to-be-missed little cafe, is also located along rue Oberkampf. Both a bar and a restaurant, it is awash with clients at happy hour.
Near Place de la République, rue Amelot is well known for its trendy rock and roll bars and clubs like Zéro Zéro, Pop In and regular live concerts. On rue de Crussol, near Cirque d’hiver, L’Entrée des Artistes is a small cocktail bar with a warm and friendly atmosphere. It has a unique wine list and also serves light meals.
Another hip location in the district is along the Saint-Martin Canal which has a great collection of places to go to, especially at Quai de Jemmapes. In particular, make sure to visit Chez Prune, which has the feel of an old bistro.
Le Comptoir Général is ideally located, set back from the canal. It has a colonial decor, a smoking room and a cabinet of curiosities. Their African-inspired cocktail menu is unique and original. At the weekend, you should arrive before 8pm to avoid the queues. Le Comptoir Général also serves brunch on Sundays.
Chez Marcel is a bar and restaurant, also located along the riverbank. Its name may be French, but the menu is inspired by India.
Le Point Éphémère, near to Jaurès metro at the top of Saint-Martin Canal, is a cultural and artistic location as well as a bar. In the evenings, DJ sets and exhibitions draw in a young and trendy crowd. There are also food trucks that regularly park up in front of the area and on different days they serve burgers, hotdogs and desserts.
