Speakeasy
Lavomatic
Paris-Opera and Les Halles
May 11, 2018
As you reach the top you step into a tiny, colourful and kitsch bar. Low seating and scatter cushions in bright patterns abound, teeny stools done up like soap boxes add to the theme and there’s even swing seats for a little grown-up fun. This is a hidden gem in the 10th arrondissement, just seconds from the bustling Place de la Republique. It’s packed with after-workers, friends and couples all enjoying cocktails and the rarely found Paris air-conditioning – a godsend in this summer heat. Lavomatic is filled with young, in-the-know types and definitely hits the mark as a fun first date spot.
First round of cocktails and amongst them we have the signature Monkey Tea Time, a Basilic Instinct and Moscow Mule, a little small but packs a fiery punch. The first is an earl grey infused whiskey sour and the second is a refreshing gin-based mix though a little elderberry heavy. But the unusual ingredients on the menu shout out, the Nuage Rose for example, which has hibiscus tonic and a mini marshmallow topping is insta-friendly. There’s a light heartedness in the drinks and the décor which explains the chilled, cosy vibes inside. And it definitely helps that prices are mostly pocket-friendly too.
Only back in the entryway do we realise that the washing machines actually work so head along with friends and a bag of dirty socks if multi-tasking is your thing. If it isn’t, well you won’t be too disappointed here…
Main photo credit: http://www.lavomatic.paris/ official website
