On a narrow pedestrian street, within spitting distance of the Pompidou centre, this nautical-themed rum bar and distillery advertises itself as a ‘pirate port-of-call’.
The house rums (spiced or fruit-infused) are irresistible, aged between two and three weeks to ensure they go down easy. With strong, sweet rums priced at three euros per shooter, you can quickly drink yourself under the table. And still, you’d have barely scratched the surface: the bar stocks some fifty varieties, flavoured, spiced, light, dark and gold, including world-class labels like Diplomatico (Venezuela) and Don Papa (Philippines). Mixed rum drinks and planter’s punches are also served.
The space is designed to resemble an old ship’s hold: an interior of lacquered wood, with rope and antique maps decorating the walls. Note that Le Barberousse is actually a chain, with around a dozen locations throughout France, in Toulouse, Lyon and Marseille. But don’t let this deter you from stopping in for a little – just a little! – taste.