Carrer Parlament, which runs along the lower part of Barcelona in the residential Sant Antoni quarter of the Eixample district, has recently received some much needed rejuvenation and is now awash with great places to eat out and buy fresh, well sourced, local produce. This up and coming part of Barcelona is just a stone’s throw away from the famous Mercat Sant Antoni, which is currently being renovated.
Located at number 27 is Vinito, the wine shop and one of the longest running establishments on Carrer Parlament. They’ve recently extended their services into a bar as well. It’s a great place to duck in to and have a glass or two whilst browsing the barrels or alternatively there's a terrace outside to relax on with a drink.
Next door at number 25 is the popular and fun Bar Calders, which is a great spot to head to for all occasions, including morning coffee, delicious tapas dinner or an evening drink. Whatever your tipple Bar Calders is sure to satisfy with its endless drinks menu. Its renowned for it’s vermouth especially the Falset, which can be nursed on the sprawling terrace down the side street of the bar. Other specialties include the limited addition of Sant Antoni red wine, which is made sparingly each year. The inside design of the bar is decorated with paintings by Ramón Lamarca who’s one of the founders.
Next down the street at number 39 is the Federal Café, the trendy brunch go-to that offers affordable and appetising food. Federal Café was born out of the owners recognising a niche for a breakfast and brunch spot in Barcelona. The owners are Australians and the down-under easygoingness is evident in the uber relaxed atmosphere of the joint. The café's laid back vibe has been extremely popular with both locals and those visiting the city. With its leafy garden roof terrace the café the ideal spot to hang out and enjoy Barcelona’s never ending sunshine whilst drinking a delicious fresh coffee. The light, casual décor that flows through both floors reflects Federal Café's tranquil. The menu has an emphasis on eco friendly, freshly and locally grown produce. Although brunch is Federal Café’s specialty, lunch and dinner are also available and very recommendable.
At number 19 is Tarannà Bar & Café, which only recently opened it doors. Josechu, the owner, has created a communal, homely environment with an airy, light feel and vintage wooden furniture. Keeping with the communal theme the tables are shared or alternatively its possible to sit on the window stills that look out onto the street.
The menu is varied with offerings including traditional French delicacies and a variety of tasty tapas' and sandwiches. For dessert be tempted by the mouth watering homemade cakes. In terms of beverages the drinks list doesn’t disappoint with an array of teas, coffee, juices, wines, beers and spirits all available.
Nextdoor at number 17 is another recent addition to Carrer Parlament Zucker Haus, a boutique bakery owned by German Italian Manuela. Manuela’s culture is reflected in the selection of cakes on offer, such as black forest gateaux and plum frangipane tart. Swing by Zucker Haus and enjoy the delicious delights while making use of the indoor seating available. Also if you need a caffeine boost tea and coffee are amongst the treats. This is the perfect place to pop into to refuel whilst browsing all Carrer Parlament has to offer.
Address: Carrer del Parlament, 08015 Barcelona, Catalunya, Spain
Google map: bit.ly/14JDbTY
* Hatty is our Been there local for Barcelona. You can read her profile here: www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/articles/barcelona-local-hatty-copeman.jsp and follow her tips here: www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/travellers/barcahiddencorners.jsp
Some local advices: do not stay in Tavares Bastos favela, is far from the beaches; take the Ferry to Niterói and adme the most beautiful panorama from Rio; For a street snack, prefer the traditional hot dog, the cat's barbecue is unreliable; Brazilian really don't care about Malvinas; do not take vans; Rio is much more than Samba and Bossa Nova - spend a night at Barra Music, its far but it is worth; even the pacified favelas u should avoid unless you have a local guide; forget the caxirolas.
Torre Del Benaco is a prettier, more relaxing microcosm of the lake's larger, more expensive resorts. Situated half way up the eastern shore, it has a lovely little harbour, the centre for the low key cafe bar night life and the sedate early evening 'passegiata'.
Daytime delights include the lively lido and the castle and its small museum.
Stay at the family run Hotel Belvedere with lake view doubles with ample breakfast from €43 per person. For something authentic and unique locals head to Don Diegos (situated just off the cobbled main street at the harbour end) a bar that serves a heady, inexpensive sangria to a soundtrack ranging from indie to jazz fusion. Cool!
www.belvederetorri.com
Via per Albisano, 9, 37010 Torri del Benaco
+39 045 7225088
Google map: bit.ly/18UWcGk
A neat place overlooking the lake. By night it's a cool place to sit and watch the mayhem below. Fantastic fruit juices!
73 Cầu Gỗ, Hoan Kiem District Hanoi, Vietnam
+84 4 3926 0801
Google map: bit.ly/10ucjBd
A bar whose name means ‘uproar and commotion’? Could there be a more fitting venue for a night of cocktails, dancing and partying in Hong Kong, Asia’s ultimate wild child city? But this is uproar and commotion with a sleeker, chicer, sexier edge. Think minimalist décor, high ceilings and industrial detailing; Manhattan Loft meets wild Irish shindig. This is the venue to hit up when you’re looking to switch the night up a gear - there’s plenty of space on the dancefloor to showcase your Gangham Style and a list of space-age style, molecular shots to fuel your smooth moves. Make sure that you try the genius Jäger Balls – jelly encased shots of Jägermeister served floating in a glass of Red Bull, AKA liquid Michael Flatley - one shot and we guarantee you’ll to be the Lord of the Dance …
58-62 D'Aguilar St., Central, Hong Kong
+852 2179 5225
Google map: bit.ly/WIyBBV
* Natalie is our local for Hong Kong. You can read all about her here: www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/articles/hong-kong-local-natalie-robinson.jsp and follow her tips here: www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/travellers/natalierobinson
She also has her own blog at: www.3badmice.com/
Had enough of bright lights and buzzing streets? How about transporting yourself far away from the skyscrapers and honking taxis of Hong Kong and saying Aloha to a Polynesian Paradise at Honi Honi. Tucked away in an unassuming building on Wellington Street, this little cocktail den feels like a dessert island haven among the neon and vodka jelly of the streets below. Grab a high stool at the bamboo bar or head out to the leafy terrace and prepare to be blown away by some totally tropical cocktails. Whip up some trouble with the Tropical Storm - Grey Goose, passion fruit, elderflower, guava nectar and fresh strawberries - or go for some group re-hydration courtesy of the Around the World – the king of cocktails, made up of five different rums some obligatory soft, fruity stuff and a whole bottle of Tattinger Champagne – this probably doesn’t end prettily …
www.honihonibar.com/
3/F 52 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong
+852 2353 0885
Google map: bit.ly/ZDV4jz
* Natalie is our local for Hong Kong. You can read all about her here: www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/articles/hong-kong-local-natalie-robinson.jsp and follow her tips here: www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/travellers/natalierobinson
She also has her own blog at: www.3badmice.com/
If you’ve headed down to hot Peruvian restaurant, Chicha, but can’t get a table, don’t feel bad, we’re all in the same boat. Literally actually – we’re talking the boat themed bar, The Roger Room, right across the road of course! But this isn’t some awful themed bar, this is Chicha’s naughty, rum-swigging, buccaneering little brother – fresh out of the box drinking spot and the place all the cool kids are heading for strong drinks and Peruvian bites. Decked out like a very chic pirate ship, with killer cocktails for the thirsty and tacos for the peckish – peg legs and parrots are optional! Go classic with a Pisco Sour or really shiver those timbers with the bar’s namesake tipple, the Jolly Roger – Pisco, muddled berries, sparkling wine and a spike of chili. Several of those and it’ll be cutlasses at dawn…
G/F, 39 Peel St., Central, Hong Kong
+852 2561 3336
Google map: bit.ly/Y3mvEv
* Natalie is our local for Hong Kong. You can read all about her here: www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/articles/hong-kong-local-natalie-robinson.jsp and follow her tips here: www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/travellers/natalierobinson
She also has her own blog at: www.3badmice.com/
Looking for a little respite from the rowdy crowds on Wyndham Street? How about a little well-heeled refinement and a strong Gin & Tonic? Origin sounds right up your street. This brand new drinking spot specialises in the stiff upper Brit’s favourite tipple, gin. Whet your whitsle with a gin-based cocktail or tickle your fancy with a nip of home-infused gin, think: basil, grapefruit or lemongrass. Like it’s sister bar, The Quinary, lots of new fangled wizardry and some serious science lab-esque equipment, is used to whip up Origin’s menu of delicious concoctions. So hop up onto a tartan-topped stool at the elegant arched bar and watch the mixology magic commence.
G/F, 48 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong.
+852 2668 5583
Google map: bit.ly/ZDVztY
* Natalie is our local for Hong Kong. You can read all about her here: www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/articles/hong-kong-local-natalie-robinson.jsp and follow her tips here: www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/travellers/natalierobinson
She also has her own blog at: www.3badmice.com/
For a little slice of Cuba in the very heart of Lang Kwai, zip past the lagered-up crowds doing jelly shots and head up to Havana Bar’s huge 4th floor terrace where the atmosphere’s much more Caribbean Carnival. If the Latin beats don’t get you in the party mood, the mind-boggling array of rum is guaranteed to have you salsaing on the tables quicker than you can say Daiquiri. Nab an alfresco cushioned corner seat under the colourful reclaimed shutter wall art, and get the drinks flowing. The Luxury Mojito is a delicious but deadly twist on everyone’s favourite Cuban cocktail – it’s a classic Mojito topped up with champagne.
4/F, The Plaza, 21 D'Aguilar St., Central, Hong Kong
+852 28514880
* Natalie is our local for Hong Kong. You can read all about her here: www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/articles/hong-kong-local-natalie-robinson.jsp and follow her tips here: www.ivebeenthere.co.uk/travellers/natalierobinson
She also has her own blog at: www.3badmice.com/
The Palacio de Valle is a fabulous Moorish-Gothic-Baroque confection at the southern end of the Punto Gorda peninsula, Cienfuegos, Cuba.
Take in the intricate ceilings, stained glass and chandeliers, as you head up the sweeping marble stairs to the top floor. Then climb the rickety spiral staircase to the rooftop bar, which has to be one of the best places in the world to watch the sunset. Order a mojito and gaze out across the water at the stunning view.
Reparto Punta Gorda, Cienfuegos, Cuba
+53 43 451003
Google map: bit.ly/YmSRqe
On the 63rd floor of the Lebua Hotel in Bangkok, Sky Bar offers up breathtaking views over the city. There is no entrance fee so you can get away with just going to appreciate the scenery, while some may recognise it from the opening scenes of Hangover 2.
Drinks are around 500 baht, and after the heat and hustle below, sipping a cocktail among the skyscrapers is a great way to end the day.
Head there early evening to catch the sun setting over the Chao Praya River.
www.lebua.com
The Dome at lebua 63rd floor, 1055/42 Silom Road Bangrak, Bangkok 10500, Thailand
+66 2 624 9999
Google map: bit.ly/13mTTZR
The most wonderful rooftop bar with a stunning panorama of the city skyline, the racetrack, ocean, and Haji Ali mosque. Aer Bar attracts a glamorous clientele of fashionable Mumbaikars and awe struck tourists.
www.fourseasons.com
114 Dr.E.Moses Road, Worli, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400018, India
+91 22 2481 8000
Google map: bit.ly/13dPUiB
The best place in NYC to enjoy an Old Fashioned and look back towards central Manhattan.
The views are fantastic and unimpeded stretching from Central Park down to Wall St - well worth a trip out to West 48th to go and watch the city that never sleeps from one of its best vantage points.
www.ink48.com/
653 11th Ave, New York, NY, United States
+1 212 757 0088
Google map: bit.ly/XWfn84
The Harry’s Restaurant & Lounge Bar is set in an ideal location, along the promenade of Oludeniz. The views from the rooftop are amazing especially during the evening when you can watch the sunset and enjoy a few cocktails and some music. During the daytime, The Harry’s Restaurant is a great place if you want to watch the adventurous tourists and co-pilots land their paragliders while you eat. Worth a visit!
www.theharrysrestaurant.com
Belceğiz Mh., Çarşı Cd, Ölüdeniz, Turkey
+90 252 617 07 08
Google map: bit.ly/YutaXw
Istanbul is all about roof top views and one of the best is from the 5 Kat. Located in a non descript building on a quiet side street, after a ride in a shaky old lift you step out onto a beautiful outdoor terrace with a breathtaking view over the Bosphorus. Get there early evening to grab a bar stool and a cocktail and watch the sun go down and the lights go up. Great view of the light show on the Bosphorus bridge.
www.5kat.com
Cihangir Mh., Soğancı Sk No:7
+90 212 293 3774
Google map: bit.ly/15efp1b
A lovely, laid-back, quiet rooftop bar and restaurant, with views of the Potala Palace. Pretty much only used by hotel guests, so not raucous, and with no-one hassling you for your table like the rooftop places off Barkhor Square. A perfect place for breakfast, or to let the afternoon and evening slip by.
www.shambhalaserai.com/html/Shambhala-palace-1.html
No. 16 Taibeng Gang Wengdui Xingka Sangdong Yuan Lhasa, Tibet, China
+86 (891) 632 6695
The epitomy of a roof top bar. Set of the 17th floor of the hotel, the only access is via a lift with its own doorman. The food is incredible, the cocktails are amazing and served until 2am. The clientele are hip and occasionally famous.
www.thehuntleyhotel.com/
1111 Second Street, Santa Monica, CA 90403
+1 310 394 5454
Google map: bit.ly/X9gDHH
Well worth the climb through the narrow, atmospheric streets of the old gypsy quarter, where you can imagine the spirit of Federico Garcia Lorca still lingers; El Huerto rewards you with ice cold drinks and an incomparable view of the Alhambra, ( the nearby Mirador is where all the postcard pix are taken) against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada, snow capped in the cooler months. There is no better place at sunset for a drink and/ or a light meal. Particularly notable for fantastic G&T s with a huge choice of both gins and tonics. Torches blaze, candles flicker, colours of the sunset deepen, impossibly beautiful staff waft attentively, you sink lower into the cushions and order just one more ...
www.elhuertodejuanranas.com
Callejón Atarazana, 18010, Granada, Spain
+34 958 28 69 25
Google map: bit.ly/Xwm44C
It is not as big as some Roman rooftop bars, nor as flash. But it's on top of a lovely ivy-clad hotel on the corner of Largo Febo, steps away from the downtown heart of ancient Rome (Piazza Navona and Via del governo Vecchio) yet a world and a half away from all the tourist tat. Order a bottle of prosecco from the charming, friendly staff and, feeling thoroughly glamorous, watch the sun go down on St Peter's basilica and the rooftops of Rome. But that's not all - and this is what makes the Raphael the very best for rooftop tippling - when you're ready for dinner you can head back down to the filmset/fairytale little square below where Ristorante Santa Maria serves up excellent food and oodles of ambience. And you can round your evening off at any of the great bars nearby; Bar della Pace of Bar del Fico are just two within an easy totter.
www.raphaelhotel.com
Largo Febo, 2 Piazza Navona 00186 Roma
+39 06 682831
Google map: bit.ly/13IGwim
On the 14th floor of a recently built hotel, you can drink and eat, and gaze at two thirds of Berlin. Favoured seats are along the west facing windows for sunset. Stunning!
www.vi-hotels.com
Landsberger Allee 106, 10369 Berlin, Germany
+49 30 4530530
Google map: bit.ly/125O6sk