Bars and bar culture in Berlin 2025: 7 new recommended venues
© Salmon Guru
Bar ohne Namen
Entschlossen verweigert sich Savage, der Bar einen Namen zu geben. Stattdessen sind drei klassische Design-Symbole das Logo der Trinkstätte in Dalston: ein gelbes Quadrat, ein rotes Viereck, ein blauer Kreis. Am meisten wurmt den sympathischen Franzosen dabei, dass es kein Gelbes-Dreieck-Emoji gibt. Das erschwert auf komische Weise die Kommunikation. Der Instagram Account lautet: a_bar_with_shapes-for_a_name und anderenorts tauchen die Begriffe ‘Savage Bar’ oder eben ‚Bauhaus Bar‘ auf.
Für den BCB bringt Savage nun sein Barkonzept mit und mixt für uns mit Unterstützung von Russian Standard Vodka an der perfekten Bar dazu.
Back in the Eighties, an advertisement for Amaro Ramazzotti used the slogan “la Milano da bere”. The historic amaro, first produced in 1815, was deeply tied to the city — celebrating the Milanese way of life: work hard, play hard. The phrase became so successful it entered everyday language, and it still perfectly defines the city’s spirit today.
Milan is truly a “city to drink.” It’s where Davide Campari created his world-famous bitter and Bernardino Branca invented fernet. Around the Duomo and Teatro alla Scala, several classic cocktails were born — including the Mi-To (from Milano and Torino), the Americano, and the more recent Negroni Sbagliato, a sparkling twist on the Negroni. Milan remains the Italian capital of the aperitivo and boasts one of the most vibrant cocktail cultures in the country. Choosing just a few great bars is no easy task — but here are some that define the scene.
Nottingham Forest
A must-visit bar named after an English football club, Nottingham Forest features a counter from New York’s legendary Knickerbocker Hotel and the spirit of a Caribbean hideaway. Here, Dario Comini — one of Italy’s most inventive bartenders — serves creations like the Mondrian Martini, a colourful nod to the artist himself. Comini’s pioneering approach to molecular mixology makes this bar a true institution.
📍Viale Piave, 1
🌐 nottingham-forest.com
© Nottingham Forest
Bar Basso
When Mirko Stocchetto took over Bar Basso, he accidentally replaced gin with sparkling wine while making a Negroni — creating the now-iconic Negroni Sbagliato. Stocchetto also invented the Rossini, a strawberry-infused take on the Bellini. Today, Bar Basso remains an essential stop for cocktail lovers.
📍Via Plinio, 39
🌐 barbasso.com
© Bar Basso
Rita
In the lively Navigli district, Rita has been a cornerstone of Milan’s cocktail scene since 2002. Founded by Edoardo Nono, it’s known for exceptional service, fresh ingredients, and a welcoming atmosphere. Just around the corner, Rita Tiki Room adds a tropical twist with Caribbean cocktails and vibrant food.
📍Via Angelo Fumagalli, 1
🌐 ritacocktails.com
© Rita
Moebius
Founded in 2019 by Lorenzo Querci, Moebius quickly became one of Milan’s most innovative venues, earning a Michelin star and climbing into the World’s 50 Best Bars. Its bold approach to both cuisine and mixology makes it a must-see destination. Ask for the Zola Funk if you’re in the mood to push your palate.
📍Via Alfredo Cappellini, 25
🌐 moebiusmilano.it
© Moebius
Salmon Guru
Originally from Madrid, Salmon Guru has found a warm welcome in Milan. Known for its creative cocktails and striking presentation, it’s a refreshing addition to the city’s bar landscape. Try the Inspiración Paloma, blending tequila, basil infusion, elderflower, strawberry juice, and grapefruit soda.
📍Via Ezio Biondi, 4
🌐 salmonguru.it
© Salmon Guru
1930
Once Milan’s best-kept secret, 1930 was a true speakeasy — hard to find, but worth the effort. Now located beneath MAG La Pusterla, it retains its exclusivity and charm. Co-owner Benjamin Cavagna crafts inventive cocktails that have earned the bar a spot on the World’s 50 Best list.
📍Via Edmondo de Amicis, 22
🌐 farmilygroup.com
© 1930
MAG Cafè
A staple of the Navigli nightlife, MAG Cafè helped shape Milan’s modern cocktail culture. Founder Flavio Angiolillo and his partners run several renowned spots, including Tripstillery, Iter, and Backdoor 43 — the world’s smallest bar. If you can’t get into Backdoor, order the Negroni del Marinaio at MAG instead.
📍Ripa di Porta Ticinese, 43
🌐 farmilygroup.com
© MAG Cafè
Opera 33
Led by barlady Terry Monroe, Opera 33 offers a botanical journey through colour, aroma, and emotion. Located in the Isola district, the bar invites guests to describe a feeling or flavour — and Monroe will craft the perfect cocktail in response. Her “Cromococktail” concept captures this creative vision.
📍Via Carlo Farini, 33
🌐 opera33.it
© Opera 33
Milord
In the university district, Milord is a relaxed lounge where you can unwind with expertly mixed drinks. Opened in 2013 by Cristian Lodi, it’s known for reviving forgotten classics like the Paper Plane and Last Word, alongside innovative creations like the Winequiri.
📍Via Andegari, 9
🌐 quantobastalecce.com
© Milord
Drinc. Cocktail & Conversation
Drinc comes in two styles — one intimate and elegant, the other lively and social. Both share impeccable cocktails and refined service from bartender Luca Marcellin. The signature menu is full of inventive drinks, best enjoyed under the guidance of the bar team.
📍Via Plinio, 32
🌐 bydrinc.com
© Drinc. Cocktail & Conversation
