In the footsteps of Ernest Hemingway

As the Allies moved toward Paris in 1944, war correspondent Ernest Hemingway was determined to be a part of the liberation. When he was not able to join the troops as they liberated Paris, he opted instead to liberate the bar at the Ritz. Legend has it his liberation included a tab for 51 martinis.

Today the Paris Ritz is home to the Bar Hemingway, named for the famous author. The bar is small and cozy, decorated with Hemingway memorabilia. The menu is styled as a newspaper, and offers cocktails like the Serendipity (Calvados, fresh mint, apple juice and champagne) and the Clean Dirty Martini (a ‘dirty’ martini that is crystal clear). Drinks for women are adorned with a rose.

It’s pricey, but it should still be high on your list if you’re a Hemingway fan. Even if you’re not a Hemingway fan, the drinks are amazing!

Things to know

As a small bar, this place fills up fast. If going on a weekend, try to arrive as it opens to get in quickly.

It’s expensive – around €30 for a drink.

You should definitely use the bathroom at the Ritz while you are there – it’s beautiful! Swan faucets, real towels – worth a visit.

Be sure to check out Place Vendôme, just outside the Ritz. The column at the center of the square was erected by Napoleon I to commemorate the Battle of Austerlitz.