Tucked into a space previously occupied by the petite Quiet Man pub, is Paris’ latest hotspot, Bar Nouveau. Long before its much anticipated opening, this micro-bar captured the attention of cocktail aficionados and enthusiasts thanks to its art nouveau concept and the global reputation of the driving force behind it, Remy Savage. Stepping into Bar Nouveau is a little like stepping back in time where the charm of the past converges with the sophistication of modern craft cocktails.
Bar Nouveau’s allure reveals itself in layers, like its two distinct levels. The main floor is immaculate with large front windows, white and grey dappled marble countertops, and lots of light. And though the space is small, it feels larger thanks to the impressive mottled mirrors on the walls and ceiling. No details escape their homage to the movement, including the glass light fixtures inspired by the 1950’s Tappio Wirkkala vase that, modeled on the form of a chanterelle mushroom, recalls the art nouveau ethos of incorporating nature into daily life.
Downstairs stands in stark contrast to its gleaming upstairs counterpart. It’s dark with black lights and exposed brick and a menu that twists and tweaks the cocktails from the upstairs menu.
Bar Nouveau was the idea of Remy Savage, a name well-known in the realm of innovative cocktails and concepts. But the project wouldn’t be complete without his co-founders Sara and Hadrien Moudoulaud, both with impressive credentials having worked at Little Red Door and le Syndicat, as well as Marc Puzzuoli.
The team’s collective cocktail know-how has resulted in a delicate menu with a dash of nostalgia. Notably, amongst the 6 cocktails ranging from 9 to 12 Euros, is their rendition of the cognac classic fine à l’eau, to which they add sugar and verjus. Another enjoyable Bar Nouveau twist on an already established cocktail is their Jasmin, which is well-balanced and refreshing. It’s a menu that exemplifies a successful “less is more” approach, with a limited number of options, each made with just a few ingredients and served in simple tasteful glassware with elegant garnishes.
As you work through the menu, you might notice the unmistakable sound of a blender humming in the background. This is the signature soundtrack of the bar’s popular Ramos, another classic with a Bar Nouveau tweak that has garnered a loyal following. At the time of my visit, there were not yet beer or wine options, but I understand this may be changing in the near future.
While Bar Nouveau doesn’t take reservations, the good news is that it opens its doors at 4 PM, offering the perfect excuse to start your evening early and secure a bar stool in this intimate space.
Bar Nouveau
5 Rue des Haudriettes
75003 Paris
