After what feels like an eternity of COVID-19 lockdowns, most of us are reminiscing over the good old days when we could go out for a drink without having to worry about the surfaces we touch or the large crowd at the next table. Now that the restrictions are slowly lifting and more people are getting vaccinated, bars and pubs are getting ready to open their doors for customers, with some safety measures in place. If you’re already planning your next night out with your friends, here are some fun places you should consider.
Maybe Sammy – Sydney
If you’re tired of the same old bar scene, this could easily be the breath of air you’ve been longing for. Located in Sydney, Australia, Maybe Sammy provides the same luxury and quality of hotel bars, with great attention to detail, impeccable service, and a warm and inviting atmosphere. Each visit to this one-of-a-kind cocktail bar brings a new surprise. Whether it’s a flamingo parasol surreptitiously placed by a bartender in your martini when you weren’t looking or the staff breaking out the bubble guns for some mid-shift antics, there’s never a dull moment in Maybe Sammy!
1930 – Milan
Milan is the fashion capital of the world, but that’s not all it’s known for. When it comes to eccentric alcoholic beverages, Milan certainly takes the cake. 1930 will transport you back in time with its period décor and soft jazz music and simultaneously zap you decades into the future with its inventive drinks. The elaborate menu and décor change on a semi-annual basis to provide a unique and immersive experience.
The latest menu honored South America and its lush natural landscapes, but there’s no telling what the retro-style bar will look, feel, or taste like in a couple of months since the dedicated team at 1930 is continuously developing innovative drinks and adding more pizzazz to their impeccable quality.
The Exhibit – London
Located in the heart of Balham, London, The Exhibit is an all-inclusive bar, restaurant, cinema, and event space. The contemporary venue is spread across three floors, with several indoor and outdoor spaces available for private hire, making it the perfect place for post lockdown socializing. Whether you want to dance until you drop, grab an after-work drink with your peers, or enjoy a long, bottomless brunch with your friends on the weekend, this is the place to go. The Exhibit’s ever-changing entertainment schedule always has exciting events that cater to a wide variety of preferences, from weekly movie screening and trivia nights to live music and stand-up comedy sketches.
Salmón Gurú – Madrid
Destination bars typically only maintain their popularity for a limited period until the next big thing comes along. Yet, Salmón Gurú has managed to break the rules as it continues to be Madrid’s number one destination bar for the fourth year in a row. Between the quirky and flavorful drinks served in equally unique glassware and the elegant, multi-themed interior that spans from 1950s tropical to comics lounge and Hollywood den, it’s no wonder that Salmón Gurú is the hottest spot in town! Not only that, but they also offer five-star service and an ever-changing, unique menu that is guaranteed to surpass all your expectations. So, if you haven’t been already, we highly recommend adding Salmón Gurú to your must-visit list.
Sober Company – Shanghai
We can’t talk about the most fun places to grab a drink without mentioning the world-renowned Sober Company in Huangpu, Shanghai. It’s not a suitable choice if you’re looking to get a quick nightcap, though; you’ll need to set aside a few hours to get the full experience. Start at the ground floor café where you can enjoy a rich cup of coffee along with some delicious entrées, then head to the Sober Kitchen for some mouthwatering Asian-fusion cuisine that is guaranteed to delight all your senses!
Your next stop will be to Sober Society, where the real drinking can finally start. We highly recommend trying one of the Zodiac-themed drinks – you won’t be disappointed. Be sure to collect a token at each stop so you can access the speakeasy Tipsy once you have your three tokens. There’s no menu there; you just tell the bartender what you’re in the mood for, and they’ll make it for you.
As you can see, there’s no shortage of fun and eccentric bars out there. To help you plan a fun night out after all these months of being cooped up inside, we’ve carefully curated this list of the best places where you are guaranteed to have a good time, no matter where you are in the world. So, what are you waiting for! Get some friends together, head out to one of these exciting spots, order a couple of drinks, and enjoy this much-needed change of scenery.