When the clock strikes the magic hour and work is done, there’s only one thing to do on a Friday evening – head to the nearest bar. This Friday’s five star bar is Antibes’ L’Enoteca, a chic wine bar in the old town with a menu to match.
Just a few steps away from Antibes’ famous ramparts and covered market, and less than a minute’s walk from the port, is the snug and stylish L’Enoteca. This wine bar, set back into one of Antibes’ older buildings, is a destination of choice among locals because of its impressive wine list and understated vibe.
Open from 6pm til late most days, the cellar-like bar attracts a varied crowd of wine lovers – usually French and in their 30s, but also a few expats and yachties looking for a more chilled out place to unwind than some of the other alternatives in the area.
Prices for the wines start at around 5€, but I couldn’t tell you where they end, with some of the labels revealing a very up-market quality. It’s the same with owner Christian’s selection of other alcohols, which include prestigious champagnes for a special occasion and age-old whiskeys and spirits if the red, white or rosé doesn’t do it for you.
I tend to go for rosé unless I know it’s a white I’ll like, but was gently pushed towards trying a Sancerre and later a Chablis, which both ticked every box although they came in a little higher than my usual would when we called for the bill at the end. This seems to be one of L’Enoteca’s strengths (awesome wine advice, that is) and all of the staff are well clued up on the menu so if their 35-wine strong list seems a bit daunting to you, they will certainly be on hand to give you a little direction!
With dim lighting, high sweeping ceilings, and rustic décor, the wine bar makes for a very enveloping environment and you can’t help but relax. I’d head there early on in the evening because the space is limited and a large party would be cramped, but it is the ideal spot for a low key chat with friends before you go for dinner (they have a restaurant next door) or on to the next place!
Where’s your favourite Friday bar?
At the end of every week, we’ll be reviewing a new bar, club or beach to head to on a Friday (or any day, I guess?) after work and kick off your weekend. We want to hear from you too about your favourite places to go, whether a low key lounge bar or swanky hotel rooftop terrace, so get in touch!
