Barrio Latino Bar / Cigar Bar / Restaurant

Bastille / Oberkampf - 11eme, Paris –

Stepping into the bar and restaurant Barrio Latino is like stepping into a grand Cuban mansion – minus the gun-toting madness of Pacino’s Scarface.

Four luxurious floors of open balconies and lavish décor are as much a feast for the eyes as are all the beautiful people out on the dance floor, and first-time visitors are often left in awe of the classic elegance of the first-floor bar with its antique furniture and spectacular attention to detail.

No expense has been spared, which is obvious even to those on the outside gazing into the massive windows stocked with liquor and sparkling glassware.

Although Barrio is a perfect place to lounge during the day, it really comes alive on weekend nights when an exuberant crowd gathers to dance to house and Latin music.

An upscale restaurant on the second level overlooks the action below and serves Latin and South American cuisine with prix fixe lunches and dinners, as well as a full tapas menu.

Those who prefer the full Cuban vibe can make their way up to the third floor for mojitos and a cigar or, for the ultimate experience, climb to the top level and throw themselves into the lap of luxury in the VIP lounge, where two dining areas and an uber-chic bar await.

No matter which floor they spend their night, however, Barrio Latino is the perfect Parisian spot for glitzy guests to say hello to their little friends.