Paris After Dark: Late-Night Theater, Queer Venues, and Jazz Hotspots

Known for its fashion and cuisine, Paris' nightlife is equally captivating. Whether you're in search of a late-night dive bar, post-show theater performances, inclusive queer spaces with fantastic cocktails, or a cozy spot for natural wine, Paris has something for everyone.

Here are our top recommendations for places to enjoy once the sun sets in the City of Light.

Bar Josephine

Perfect for a Treat Monday-Sunday: 5pm-1am 6th arrondissement

For a luxurious experience, enjoy a drink at one of Paris' prestigious palace hotels, renowned for their exceptional five-star service. Among the 12 palace hotels in the city, Bar Josephine at the Hôtel Lutetia stands out. Named after the iconic Josephine Baker, who often used the hotel as her Parisian retreat, this historic bar retains its original frescoed dome and offers an impressive cocktail menu curated by talented bartender Angelo Forte. Unlike many palace bars, it attracts both locals and visitors, creating a relaxed atmosphere where you might find yourself sipping champagne beside stars like Marion Cotillard and Isabelle Huppert. There’s also a hidden speakeasy within the hotel featuring a different cocktail menu and a cozy, dimly-lit ambiance.

Septime La Cave

Best for Natural Wine Monday-Sunday: 4-11pm 11th arrondissement

While reservations at the Michelin-starred Septime fill up quickly, you can still enjoy their natural wine offerings just around the corner at sister venue Septime La Cave. Opening at 4pm, this spot features sharing plates like comté cheese with fig chutney and pork terrine, making it perfect for an apéro before heading to Septime's other location, Clamato, which operates on a no-reservations basis. The space is compact, often leading locals to spill onto the street with drinks in hand. If you're new to natural wines, the English-speaking staff will gladly guide you through the selection, and you can even purchase a bottle to take home if you find a favorite.

Palais Garnier

Best for Opera and Ballet Performance times vary 9th arrondissement

Following an assassination attempt at another opera house, Napoleon III tasked the young and then-unknown architect Charles Garnier with designing what is now the Palais Garnier. This grand structure features a private entrance for the Emperor to avoid potential threats while attending performances. Although he passed away before its completion, he gifted Paris one of its most stunning landmarks, which famously serves as the backdrop for the legendary Phantom of the Opera. Daytime tours are available, but nothing compares to dressing up for an evening of ballet or opera. Visit the website to discover various options for reduced-price tickets, including last-minute €10 tickets with limited views, and special €10 tickets for preview shows for those under 28.

Paname Brewing Company

Best for Summer Craft Beers Monday-Sunday: 11am-1am 19th arrondissement

The craft beer movement in Paris has surged in recent years, yet Paname Brewing Company remains a cherished pioneer. Nestled in the often-overlooked 19th arrondissement, this brew pub was established by four friends who have created over 150 unique recipes since its inception in 2015. With around eight to fourteen of their brews available on tap, the pub frequently hosts “Tap Takeovers,” showcasing craft beers from both local and international breweries. Its inviting terrace, overlooking the canal, is a major draw during the summer months.

Dirty Lemon

Best for a Queer-Friendly Space (and Fantastic Cocktails) Tuesday-Thursday: 6pm-2am; Friday: 6pm-3am; Saturday: 11am-3:30pm, 6pm-3am; Sunday: 11am-3:30pm 11th arrondissement

Chef Ruba Koury, trained in some of Paris’ top Michelin-star restaurants, has brought her culinary expertise to the cocktail scene at Dirty Lemon. This inclusive bar offers a welcoming atmosphere, particularly for queer and female patrons, whether they’re enjoying drinks with friends or solo. The cocktail menu evolves seasonally, featuring playful names that reclaim tired female stereotypes, such as 'Girl Next Door' and 'Mommy Issues.' Guests can also indulge in a food menu inspired by Koury’s Palestinian heritage, available until 1am.

Lost in Frenchlation

Best for Cinema Performance times vary Neighborhoods across Paris

Lost in Frenchlation showcases the latest French films in various cinemas throughout Paris, complete with English subtitles and often featuring drinks before the screening along with a Q&A session with the director afterward. This initiative has become a favorite among Paris' international community since its inception a decade ago, offering a fantastic opportunity for visitors to experience French cinema. For those who understand French or prefer English-language films, iconic venues include Le Balzac, Le Champo, Le Louxor, Studio 28, Le Grand Rex, Max Linder, and Studio Galande. In the summer, grab a picnic and enjoy films at the open-air cinema at La Villette, featuring a blend of French and English movies.

Maggie Rooftop

Best for Rooftop Views Monday-Sunday: 12pm-midnight (open April-October) 9th arrondissement

While everyone is eager to catch a glimpse of the Eiffel Tower, the view from Maggie Rooftop is equally breathtaking. Perched atop the historic Hotel Rochechouart, which once hosted legends like Édith Piaf and Josephine Baker in its 1920s cabaret, this stylish rooftop bar reopened in 2020. Guests can enjoy a spectacular view of Sacré-Cœur and indulge in late-night dishes such as grilled satay prawns, beef pastrami toast, and smoked aubergine. The bar offers a 360-degree panorama, giving you an additional peek at the Eiffel Tower. Reservations are not accepted for evenings, so arrive early to claim your spot; however, you can book for lunch to enjoy the daytime scenery.

Theatre in Paris

Best for Live Performances Performance times vary Neighborhoods across Paris

Similar to Lost in Frenchlation, Theatre in Paris enhances the cultural experience for English-speaking audiences by featuring ‘surtitles’ above the stage during performances. This company collaborates with various venues across the city, including the renowned Théâtre Edouard VII and the charming 19th-century Théâtre le Ranelagh, offering a diverse lineup from stand-up comedy to beloved French classics like Cyrano de Bergerac.

Le Piano Vache

Best for Jazz Nights Monday-Sunday: 4pm-2am 5th arrondissement

Le Piano Vache has been a beloved dive bar in the 5th arrondissement since 1969. Located near Sorbonne University, it boasts a summer terrace and affordable drinks (with pints of their house beer priced at €6), making it a favorite among students. On Monday nights, it attracts jazz enthusiasts with live performances of jazz Manouche, while the rest of the week offers a mix of '80s nights on Tuesdays, goth nights on Wednesdays, after-work happy hours on Thursdays, and DJs spinning rock, punk, and pop on Fridays and Saturdays.