If you’re in Paris and looking to shake up your night (pun fully intended), Shake N’ Smash is where you want to be.
Located at 87 Rue de Turbigo in the trendy Marais district, Shake N’ Smash is a place where history, creativity, and a genuine love for the art of cocktails come together.
This cocktail bar is like finding an extra fry at the bottom of the bag—unexpected, delightful, and something you’ll want to tell everyone about.
Shake N’ Smash is one of those places that blends a unique atmosphere with inventive cocktails, giving you an experience that’s memorable without trying too hard.
It’s all about combining laid-back comfort with the kind of craftsmanship you’d expect from a top-tier cocktail lounge.
What is Shake N Smash?
Shake N’ Smash is a cocktail bar crafted by two passionate Parisians, Sephora and Jérôme, who transformed a piece of family history into one of the most intriguing spots in Paris.
To fully appreciate Shake N’ Smash, you have to know a bit about its roots.
This establishment originally opened as a bistro back in 1923 and became a staple in Jérôme’s family for generations.
It wasn’t until 2013 that he and Sephora took over, aiming to reimagine the space while preserving its charm.
What spurred this transformation? A trip to Australia.
Sephora and Jérôme were struck by the incredible cocktail culture there, where bartending is treated as an art form and mixologists work with the precision of chefs.
Inspired by this, they returned to Paris with a vision: to elevate the cocktail experience in a city already rich with culinary expertise.
This family history and personal inspiration bring a special depth to Shake N’ Smash. It’s not just about serving drinks; it’s about carrying forward a legacy while introducing something fresh and unique to the Parisian nightlife scene.
The Concept
Shake N’ Smash blends a laid-back, accessible vibe with an attention to detail that cocktail lovers will appreciate.
Their menu reflects this philosophy by offering both signature cocktails—featuring housemade syrups and creative flavor pairings—and the classics we all know and love.
The bar is inclusive and versatile, welcoming everyone from serious cocktail enthusiasts to those who just want a great place to relax.
In addition to their crafted cocktails, Shake N’ Smash offers a selection of wines, champagnes, and even craft beers, catering to diverse tastes.
There’s something here for every palate, whether you’re in the mood for a bold bourbon cocktail, a refreshing non-alcoholic drink, or even a chilled glass of champagne.
What Makes this Place So Cool?
Shake N’ Smash doesn’t just look good on Instagram—it’s got layers of charm that make it a memorable spot for a night out.
From the ambiance and decor to its inventive cocktails and unique cocktail courses, this bar brings something extra to the table, creating a space that’s both welcoming and full of personality.
1. Ambiance + Decor
One step inside, and you’re in a world that feels part 1920s speakeasy, part modern lounge.
The main area has a cozy, intimate vibe, yet it’s spacious enough to accommodate groups without feeling cramped.
The design plays with contrasts, mixing vintage touches like dark wood furniture and warm lighting with modern accents, giving it an effortlessly stylish appeal.
The lounge opens up into a veranda that leads to an outdoor terrace—a thoughtful design choice for a city like Paris, where café culture thrives.
The outdoor area is perfect for enjoying a cocktail under the stars or just taking a break from the bustling indoor scene.
There’s also a touch of whimsy in the decor, with thoughtful details that give a nod to its storied history, reminding you that this isn’t just a trendy spot; it’s a place with a legacy.
2. Cocktails + Tapas
Shake N’ Smash doesn’t just settle for the usual cocktail menu. Their drink offerings are carefully crafted, with housemade syrups and high-quality ingredients, making each cocktail a little adventure on its own.
The bartenders here are mixology pros, and it shows. The cocktail menu spans both original creations and familiar classics, with something to suit everyone’s taste.
Some of their signature cocktails offer unique flavor pairings and visually stunning presentations.
Expect cocktails that play with different elements—think a smoky bourbon paired with sweet spices or a gin cocktail garnished with unexpected herbs and fruits.
Shake N’ Smash clearly puts thought into every aspect of their drinks, from the balance of flavors to the aesthetics.
And if you’re feeling peckish, the bar also offers a menu of small plates, or tapas, that perfectly complement the drinks.
Think carefully crafted bites that are easy to enjoy alongside a cocktail, from flavorful cheeses to charcuterie and other delicious nibbles.
The tapas menu adds a European touch, inviting guests to linger, share, and enjoy the social experience that Paris is known for.
3. Cocktail Courses
For those curious about the art of cocktail-making, Shake N’ Smash offers private cocktail courses every Saturday. These courses are perfect for anyone who’s ever wanted to know what goes into crafting the perfect drink.
Led by experienced bartenders, the sessions cover everything from basic techniques to tips on flavor pairing and presentation.
During these hands-on classes, you’ll learn to make a few different cocktails yourself, with guidance on how to balance ingredients and add a personal twist.
It’s an interactive way to dive into mixology, and whether you’re a beginner or already know your way around a cocktail shaker, there’s something for everyone to pick up.
Plus, there’s a certain pride in sipping a drink you crafted yourself—a satisfying skill to bring home from Paris, even if you don’t end up opening your own cocktail bar!
I got to try one of these courses and had soooo much fun!
Our instructor taught us all the basics of mixology – which measurements to use, proper shaking and stirring techniques, and which liquors pair best with savory and sweet flavors.
We learned how to make their signature “Basilic Instinct”, a refreshing mix of gin, cucumber, and a homemade Thai basil syrup.
Next, we got to make a drink of our own by choosing our own liquor base and mix-ins. I chose to make an espresso martini (one of my favorites) using Bourbon and it was better than I expected!
After enjoying our creations, we paired up into two teams and then had a competition to see who could make a Pornstar Martini the fastest.
Our barman and instructor was super fun and engaging and made the course very interesting.
4. Private Spaces
Shake N’ Smash takes private events to the next level with their downstairs rooms, which are designed to give guests an exclusive, almost club-like experience.
These mini-venues each have their own distinct decor, and create a unique vibe for private gatherings.
From birthday celebrations to corporate events, the spaces can accommodate up to 100 people, making them a great option for groups who want a lively, personalized experience.
The private spaces come with their own bars, which means you can have dedicated bartenders making drinks for your event.
There’s even the option to include extras like a DJ, karaoke, and a Photo Booth, bringing an extra dose of fun to the night.
And if you really want to surprise your guests, Shake N’ Smash can arrange for a magician to drop in—because what’s a night out without a little magic?
These private rooms allow you to enjoy Shake N’ Smash’s unique atmosphere with your own group of friends, making it feel like your personal Parisian lounge.
It’s an elevated experience that turns any night into a special occasion, and it’s just another way Shake N’ Smash goes above and beyond to create memorable moments for their guests.
Final Thoughts
Shake N’ Smash isn’t just about serving great cocktails—it’s about creating an experience that feels personal, welcoming, and sprinkled with a touch of magic.
I had a fantastic time here, learning how to make cocktails and exploring everything they offer.
The staff was exceptionally friendly and welcoming, going out of their way to speak English with my friend, who doesn’t speak French. They clearly enjoy hosting international tourists, making everyone feel at home and part of the Parisian vibe.
Whether you’re soaking in the ambiance of the main lounge, trying your hand at a cocktail course, or celebrating in one of the private rooms, this bar consistently brings something special to the table!
This 10-page Paris travel guide includes:
- Practical tips for visiting Paris
- The best foods to eat in Paris
- The best restaurants in Paris (my top picks for breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- The top things to do and see in Paris (including day trips, scenic tours, museums, attractions, and more)
- The best (and worst) places to stay in Paris, including my top picks for hotels in each area
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