Le Comptoir General — Canal St. Martin — Paris
The outside is fenced in like a construction site. If it weren’t for the bouncer standing by the gate, and the occasional passing hipster seeking entry, it wouldn’t be obvious that this is a bar.
Inside, a short walk up the driveway takes you to what looks like a turn of the century inn with a nautical twist — a converted barn meets garden, meets pirate ship. It turns out there are no pirates here, but the stripe-shirted staff are reminiscent of Where is Waldo (the original hipster) or Ou est Charlie as he is known in France.
The place is abuzz with people and commotion. Tables line the edges of the central hall leading up to the wooden ship bar. A brass band plays 30’s style jazzy tunes, tucked away in the corner behind a tiki bar. The adjacent room is more like a garden cafe, and there is even an outdoor lounge space.
Service is confusing. Seated tables seem to be getting service haphazardly, and the bar line up is long. Despite the wait, the line of people is a good sign.
A tight local beer and wine list, with a few well curated options, is complimented by a list of classic cocktails and a knowledgable hard working bar staff.
The atmosphere is fun, kind of quirky, and distinctly Parisian. If you’re exploring Canal St. Martin this is a worthy point to stop and imbibe.
