Apothek Bordeaux: Local Cocktails and Dancing
It is a must-visit on the festive scene in Bordeaux. Apothek was born in 2019 on the picturesque street of Notre Dame aux Chartrons. Unique in the area, renowned for its wine history, it stands out as a trailblazer in the market of dancing cocktail bars in Bordeaux. An identity embraced, that is bearing fruit. In full swing, Apothek was taken over by new management in 2023.
Shakings of all kinds!
Just reopened, Apothek Bordeaux hasn't changed much in terms of its decoration. But it has completely revamped its program. By surrounding itself with the cream of the crop of bartending and with a focus on invited DJs, it reveals a DNA anchored around music and cocktails. These two words set the tone. In a very unique way, Apothek Bordeaux has built its entire concept around offering 2 evenings in one.
Imagine a place where quality tapas and amazing cocktails take center stage. At this spot, you can indulge in small bites to share with friends or keep all to yourself - the choice is yours! The focus is always on excellence. Think crispy Cajun-spiced chicken, spring rolls, homemade hummus, figs stuffed with Maison Pelegris foie gras, and a delicious selection of Iberian charcuterie and aged cheeses. And that's just the beginning! As the night progresses, the vibe transitions to a cozy club setting where guests groove to beats that lean towards house, afro-house, deep-house, disco-house, and melodic techno. Forget the mainstream - this is where the real party happens.
The calm and excellence of mixology before the storm
Here, cocktails reign supreme. With a 100% signature menu and magical concoctions made with fresh and local ingredients, Apothek defines itself as a "fervent supporter of cocktails from all eras". Old-fashioneds, tiki drinks, new-school creations... The inspirations are plentiful, highlighting the boldness and creativity of the venue. The idea is to focus on the length on the palate, with clear and minimalist creations, served over pure ice that follow the tradition of the world's top establishments.
Short circuits for a long finish
All homemade preparations (syrups, juices, liqueurs, infusions) carefully crafted by Antoine and his team open up a vast playground to surprise guests. To complete the picture, the teams work with Bordeaux or regional brands. For example, Bordeaux Distilling Company for the coffee liqueur, grape-based gins from Maison Mounicq, Kaskad Tonic originating from the Pyrenees for soft drinks, and Les Bienheureux for some spirits.
Among the best-selling cocktails, we remember - among others - the "City Bird" (flambéed pineapple with rum and reduced in hazelnut butter, fresh lime, blend of rums, tonka bean infused in Aperol), the "Electric Flower" with a unique botanical that gives a sensation of anesthesia on the tongue (jasmine, exotic berry, and Timut pepper), or the "Saturday Black Fever" (Whisky treated like a gourmet dessert with raspberry balsamic velvet and coffee pulp). As you may have understood, mixology techniques are similar to those of gourmet kitchens to provide as much flavor and power as possible. A challenge successfully met!
A balanced staging in 2 acts
The menu varies according to the arrival times. During the evening, there are 2 menus: Act I is punctuated by 9 cocktails including 1 low abv (without spirits) as well as 2 cocktails safish. We are not afraid of alcohol here. When it comes to Act II, the choice is between a lovely selection of gin and tonics, champagnes, classic cocktails, and the soft-spiritual combo, always prepared with the same high-quality ingredients used in Act I. Also worth noting is a range of "mules" with homemade ginger syrup and.fresh lime, offered with vodka, rum, or gin that is a real hit.
