Raise a Glass: Our List of Must-Visit Bars & Lounges

August 21, 2024 by Hidden Doorways

Days spent marveling at architectural masterpieces, discovering natural wonders, and seeking out hidden corners are the very fabric of travel. But there’s nothing quite so satisfying after such pursuits as sipping a cocktail in one of the world’s best bars. Our team has carefully selected some of their favorite spots to enjoy a drink or two — be it to continue on a quest of cultural immersion or simply as a reward after a long day of exploring.

The Portrait Bar at The Fifth Avenue Hotel, New York

A destination in its own right, The Portrait Bar at New York’s The Fifth Avenue Hotel welcomes guests into a world of storytelling — be it through the many portraits that decorate the walls or the expertly crafted cocktail menu. Named one of Esquire’s Best Bars in America in 2024, this Midtown hotspot is a cozy retreat away from the buzz of the city streets. Gather around the stone-carved fireplace for a drink or two before heading out to paint the town or as a nightcap after dinner.

Verri’s Bar at Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni, Lake Como – Italy

A feast for the senses, Verri’s Bar is an experience like no other. Located inside the Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni on Italy’s Lake Como, and under the expert guidance of Head Mixologist Alessandro Buonadonna, guests can immerse themselves in the worlds of mixology and aromatherapy alike. Alessandro brings his love of essential oils to his mixology for a one-of-a-kind experience that brings fragrance to the forefront of cocktail-making. Personally distilling natural oils to create unique perfumes, Alessandro’s infusions live in a collection of vintage perfume bottles ready to take each guest on a sensory journey they’ll never forget. His collection includes infusions of mandarin, mint, eucalyptus, bergamot, and more. The cocktail experience begins with a custom perfume sprayed into the empty glass, setting the stage for the flavors to follow. This innovative approach ensures each sip is accompanied by a complementary aroma, enriching the overall enjoyment.

This year, Verri’s Bar proudly introduces a new creation: Comocello. Inspired by the citrus fruits of Lake Como, this limoncello is their own invention, capturing the essence of the region in a bottle. Alessandro’s dedication to quality and innovation has resulted in a limoncello that is both refreshing and unique, a perfect addition to their cocktail repertoire. This house-made specialty further elevates the bar’s commitment to providing a truly local and artisanal experience.

Le Magritte at The Beaumont, London

Named after the Surrealist painter René Magritte, Le Magritte at The Beaumont in the heart of London’s Mayfair is the ideal place to unwind after a day of sightseeing. Celebrating 100 years of Surrealism, the bar offers a cocktail menu titled “Ceci n’est pas,” featuring drinks inspired by and named after famous Surrealist paintings. Behind the bar hangs Magritte’s famous painting ‘Le maitre d’école’ — an original from the hotel owner’s art collection that adds a playful element to the opulent atmosphere. Cocktail aficionados will appreciate unique creations like “The Persistence of Memory,” a zesty and buttery concoction with Aperol, Cocchi Rosa, prosecco, vanilla syrup, and blood orange juice. A must-visit for those venturing to the UK’s capital.

The Rooftop Bar at The Dolli, Athens

Just a stone’s throw from The Acropolis, the rooftop bar at The Dolli in Athens boasts panoramic views that are hard to beat. Whether dining or enjoying a drink or two from an extensive choice of spirits, fine wines, and house cocktails — the chic, contemporary interiors designed by cutting-edge Athens-based Kois Architects provide a sanctuary to enjoy impressive sunsets over views of the ancient world.

Bertie’s Whisky Bar at The Fife Arms, Scotland

For whisky lovers and cozy corner seekers, Bertie’s Whisky Bar at The Fife Arms in Scotland’s Cairngorms National Park is an unparalleled experience. Named in honor of King Edward VII, affectionately known as ‘Bertie’, this sumptuously elegant bar embraces the extravagance and spirit of the notorious royal bon viveur.

Upon entering Bertie’s, guests find themselves in a unique “whisky library” rather than a traditional bar setting. A labyrinth of over 500 whisky bottles, arranged like books on shelves and backlit with a lustrous amber glow, creates a seductive atmosphere. The whiskies are thoughtfully organized by flavor profile: Fragrant, Fruity, Rich, and Smoky, inviting exploration and discovery. Bertie’s features striking interiors with incredible lighting that evolves throughout the evening. As night falls, the ambiance shifts to a smoldering red, enhancing the intimate and sumptuous setting.

Bob’s Bar at The Brando, French Polynesia

The Brando – once owned by Marlon Brando himself — is a private island resort with plenty to boast about, and Bob’s Bar is high on the list. Situated in French Polynesia, here the ‘sunset cocktail’ is taken to a whole new level. The original social hub of the island, the bar was set up by Brando himself to cater to his daily visits for a cocktail crafted specifically for him. Now guests can enjoy their pick of the menu or perhaps the ‘Dirty Old Bob’ signature cocktail alongside South Pacific cuisine inspired by stories from Marlon Brando’s movies.

Moon Bar at Heckfield Place, Hampshire – UK

A place to truly unwind in the heart of the UK’s Hampshire countryside, the Moon Bar at Heckfield Place offers an intimate setting that reflects the estate’s biodynamic principles. The bar’s name nods to their practice of ‘moon gardening,’ which embraces lunar phases for planting and harvesting. Their seasonally changing menu features house-made tinctures, liqueurs, and bitters crafted from ingredients grown and foraged on the property. Whether you perch at the bar or gather around the roaring fireplace, you’ll enjoy unique cocktails that embody the essence of Heckfield Place and its surrounding landscape.

The Blue Bar at Finca Cortesin, Spain

Whether you’ve spent a day working on your backswing at one of the many local golf courses or discovering the surrounding countryside on horseback, the Blue Bar at Finca Cortesin offers an ideal spot for sharing tales of adventure over a classic cocktail and delicious tapas. Brightly decorated in its namesake blue with an array of inviting seating options, the bar extends to a charming patio courtyard where guests can enjoy incredible live music to end each day on a high note.

The Champagne Bar at El Farrallon, Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal

With spectacular views in every direction and a champagne bar, a memorable evening at El Farrallon awaits. With the mountains on one side and the ocean on the other, El Farallon sits like a raw jewel at the edge of the world, refined yet wild. As the sun sets over the Pacific, the bar’s Champagne Terraces invites you to explore a curated collection of 20 unique, always changing champagnes. Whether you opt for a three-flight tasting or opt to sip by the glass or bottle — here’s an experience for guests at Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal that’ll be truly unforgettable.