Bar Ourcq

As we approached the banks of Canal Ourcq through the residential area flanking it, we were skeptical about what we might find. The area surrounding the bar can seem less than inviting to a couple looking uncertain of where they're headed. However, once the water was in view, the shift in atmosphere was palpable. Something special laid waiting ahead. Canal Ourcq sits on, what we found to be, an otherwise quiet corner in terms of bar/restaurant life, but the lively chatter and music from the DJ table inside spill into the street, enveloping the area with an air of "cool". This place is a magnet for 20 and 30 somethings on a budget that aren't in the mood for a student trap where the soul purpose is to get plastered. Bar Ourcq caters to conversation and relatively well-mannered frivolity with board games, pétanque rentals, books, communal seating, and free food. I mean whats better than free food, really? Drinks will run you below average for Paris, but on top of their generous bar pricing is an extra sweet deal. During our visit, an outgoing Brit friend of the owner set up shop on the terrace selling Pim's Punch for 3€ a pop for take-away. Summer weekend's only for that treat, but it really highlights the friendly and laid-back vibe of Bar Ourcq, something that can be difficult to track down in Paris.

A delight of a bar along the Canal Ourcq, the northern extension of the famous Canal Saint-Martin. This place is especially worth a visit during the summer, when you can get your drinks in plastic cups and take them across the street for a seat by the canal, as Parisians do, among the large, relaxing crowd. Don’t be surprised if you smell barbequed meat, as locals take their summer picnics very seriously. Take a look at one of the many games of pétanque that are going on, or mingle and give it a shot yourself. Pétanque sets are available at the bar. The place has plenty to offer on the inside, too. The interior is original and breathes a lively, comfortable atmosphere. One wall is decorated with curved mirrors and wallpaper with sea-like waves, an original piece of art. In the back is a corner with huge sofas where you can sit back and relax, or pick up one of the board games that are lying around and play the afternoon away. There are several delicious snacks available at the bar, such as small club sandwiches, spinach pie and sausage-stuffed dough snacks, all home-made. There are several good draught beers, including a white beer that is very popular in Summer. On weekends, DJs vibe up the place―with set s at 6pm and 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and a 6pm gig on Sundays.

Bar Ourcq is one of my favourite watering holes. The staff are friendly, the prices low and the overall atmosphere is very inviting. In the summer you can take advantage of the canal-side location by having your drink served in a plastic cup, allowing you to find a sunny perch along the canal bank. And I love that they have pétanque sets on loan for the spring and summer months. The place is family friendly by day - they have a great selection of children’s books – and funky by night, often hosting local DJs. During the winter months I like to settle in a cosy corner of the cushioned area with a pot of one of their many teas (3-4 cups for around 3€) and a cake. Or, if I’m with friends we’ll enjoy an apero whilst playing one of the board games on offer. Just one word of warning, the bar is currently in “hibernation” during the week and only open at weekends until the official start of Spring.