Maxime Simonneau and Antoine Drieu, the visionary duo behind Gentlemen 1919, have crafted a unique experience that blends elegance with nostalgia in the heart of Paris. Hidden inside a traditional barbershop at 11 rue Jean Mermoz, Gentlemen 1919 is a speakeasy-style bar, barbershop, and cigar lounge that transports guests into a world of timeless sophistication.
Inspired by the clandestine bars of the Prohibition era, this Parisian gem offers a multisensory experience that blends grooming, mixology, and indulgence.
Every detail of the interior has been thoughtfully curated to evoke the charm of the 1920s. All the furniture and decorative objects—leather armchairs, brass lamps, framed portraits—have been sourced from flea markets and antique dealers, giving the space a genuine vintage soul. Each piece tells a story and contributes to the immersive ambiance.
Stepping into Gentlemen 1919 feels like entering a time capsule. It’s easy to believe the bar has been there since 1919—there are so many stories hidden in the walls, so many whispers of the past! But in truth, it opened its doors in April 2016 after three years of meticulous research and planning. Nearly a decade later, with a few changes in the decor and a menu that now tells the full story, the illusion remains beautifully intact.
The bar opens its doors daily from 10:00 AM (closed on Sundays), offering early access to its unique ambiance. During the day, guests can enter through the barbershop. However, after hours—when the barbershop is closed—entry is only possible by calling a dedicated phone number, adding to the speakeasy mystique and exclusivity of the experience. Be sure to book in advance, especially if you wish to enjoy the intimate cigar lounge.
And yes, you can absolutely order a cocktail at 10 a.m.—or simply enjoy a coffee if you prefer. For early risers or those wrapping up an unforgettable night, the “Mexican Breakfast” cocktail was specially crafted to start (or end) the day with a bold twist.
This is actually one of my favourite drinks there.
The cocktail menu is a 20-page curated experience, divided into three main sections:
1. Classic Cocktails
A tribute to the golden age of mixology, this section features timeless favourites such as:
- Negroni
- Old Fashioned
- Espresso Martini
- Margarita
- Mint Julep
- Manhattan
- Mary sans Bloody
- Daïquiri
This list is subject to change with each new menu.
2. The signature drinks
Intemporal creations from previous and current bartenders:
Mexican Breakfast: Mezcal 400 Conejos, lemon juice, pear coulis, agave
Roaring Twenties: Squadron 303 rum, Black Tears, coffee, lemon juice, Benedictine, Kerala chai tea, spices, maple syrup, milk
Parfum d ’Arsène: Tequila 1800, Eagle Rare, lemon juice, fig, egg white
Pas d’amour: Coquerel fine pale, Scholastique 790 juice, lemon juice, maple syrup, Brooklyn lager
3. New Creations
This section showcases the creativity of the bar’s mixologists and will evolve with each new menu:
Vieux Paris: Ketel One, Rinquinquin, St Germain, Champagne
Prohibition Punch: Campari, Aperol, Arthaud 358 juice, pineapple juice, ginger juice, cinnamon, star anise
Londres Voiron: Tanqueray, yellow chartreuse, lemongrass, green shiso, mint, tonic
Peruvian Spirit: Pisco, lemon juice, chicha morada, ginger ale, strawberry
What truly sets the experience apart is the staff—attentive, discreet, and remarkably personal. They remember your name, your favourite drink, and even the stories you shared last time (so beware!). This rare sense of familiarity transforms each experience into a homecoming rather than just a night out.
The soundtrack? Smooth, timeless crooners—Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Roberta Flack, and more—wrapping the room in velvet tones.
And if you’re in the mood for a little friendly competition, there’s even a set of authentic vintage darts—real ones, not plastic—waiting in the corner. Who’s up for a game?
Gentlemen 1919 isn’t merely a bar; it’s a portal to another time. A haven where the hustle and bustle of the outside world fades away, and reality takes a back seat. Whether you’re indulging in what many consider the best Negroni in Paris or simply soaking in the enchanting ambiance, this hidden gem offers an unforgettable escape into elegance and allure.
Without a doubt, it’s one of my favourite spots in Paris when I’m in the mood for a well-crafted classic cocktail in a refined, masculine atmosphere.
Cocktails in Paris 
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