The Hemingway Bar occupies a jewel-box room within the Hôtel Ritz Paris on Place Vendôme in the 1st arrondissement, surrounded by some of the most expensive real estate in France. The bar takes its name from Ernest Hemingway, who allegedly led a small group of troops to the Ritz shortly after Paris was freed from German occupation in August 1944, reportedly requesting martinis before the fighting had fully ceased. That mythology is woven into the bar's identity and décor: photographs, memorabilia, and trophies from Hemingway's life fill the intimate wood-panelled room.
The bar has been presided over for decades by head bartender Colin Field, widely considered one of the finest hotel bartenders in the world and frequently recognised internationally for personalised service and classical technique. Field's programme is distinguished by an encyclopaedic knowledge of cocktail history and an ability to create bespoke drinks based on brief conversations with each guest. Signature cocktails include the Clean Dirty Martini and the Serendipity. Cocktails are priced at €22–€35, reflecting the calibre of ingredients, the Ritz's operational standard, and the exceptional craft on display.
The atmosphere is hushed and deeply intimate. The room seats approximately 30 guests; low lighting, polished mahogany, deep banquettes, and the quiet efficiency of impeccably trained staff create an environment unlike anywhere else in Île-de-France. The clientele tends toward well-dressed guests from the Ritz itself, business travellers, and those celebrating significant occasions. Smart dress is expected; trainers or casual attire will likely result in a polite refusal. A table minimum may apply for seated bookings.
Opening hours run Tuesday through Saturday from 18:00 to 02:00; the bar is closed Sunday and Monday. Reservations are strongly recommended given the room's limited capacity. Bottles of Champagne, vintage spirits, and premium selections are available for a more elevated experience.
For visitors to Paris seeking the defining example of the grand hotel bar tradition in Île-de-France — where history, craft, and atmosphere converge — the Hemingway Bar at the Ritz represents a singular and unrepeatable experience.
Good to know
- Hours
- Tue–Sat 18:00–02:00
- Signature
- Named for Hemingway who allegedly 'liberated' the Ritz bar in 1944; legendary prestige cocktails and timeless atmosphere
Location
15 Place Vendôme, 75001 Paris, France
48.8695, 2.3296 View on map
Highlights
- Named for Ernest Hemingway's legendary 1944 visit on the day Paris was liberated from German occupation
- Presided over by head bartender Colin Field, widely regarded as one of the world's greatest hotel bartenders
- Intimate wood-panelled room of approximately 30 seats within the Hôtel Ritz Paris on Place Vendôme
- Personalised bespoke cocktails created through conversation with the bartender — no two experiences are identical
- Located on Place Vendôme, the most prestigious address in central Paris
Tips for visiting
- Reserve well in advance — the room seats about 30 and fills most nights, especially Friday and Saturday
- Smart dress is required; trainers, shorts, and very casual attire are not appropriate at the Ritz Paris
- Budget €40–€80 per person for two cocktails; a table minimum may apply to seated guests
- Ask the barstaff to create a personalised drink based on individual preferences — the bespoke cocktail is the defining experience
- Tuesday and Wednesday evenings are slightly less pressured than Thursday through Saturday for walk-in hopefuls
Frequently asked questions
How formal is the dress code at the Hemingway Bar?
Smart-casual is the minimum; more formal attire is common among regular guests. Trainers, shorts, or very casual clothes are not appropriate at a bar of this standard within the Ritz Paris.
Does a visitor need to be staying at the Ritz to enter?
No. The Hemingway Bar is open to all guests who meet the dress code. Reservations are strongly recommended given the limited seating capacity of the room.
What are the prices for cocktails?
Cocktails range from €22 to €35. This reflects the exceptional quality, premium ingredients, and the Ritz's location on Place Vendôme. A table minimum for seated bookings may also apply.
Who is Colin Field?
Colin Field has served as head bartender at the Hemingway Bar for decades and has been recognised by international publications as one of the world's greatest bartenders. He is particularly known for creating personalised cocktails through conversations with each guest.
How is the bar accessed from the street?
Entry to the Hemingway Bar is through the Hôtel Ritz Paris on Place Vendôme in the 1st arrondissement. Guests enter through the hotel lobby and ask a member of staff for directions to the bar.