For a city that never experienced prohibition, Paris sure has a lot of speakeasies. On the scene since 2015 is Lavomatic, a laundromat themed speakeasy bar near République. It’s not really that hidden of a bar: a bouncer waits outside an empty laundromat, instructing those wishing to enter to que on the sidewalk. Once inside the laundromat the right washer on the back wall has a button that must be pressed to open the door of the machine, which reveals a hidden staircase. Upstairs, a small, dimly lit bar serves carefully crafted cocktails and small bites. With low ceilings, carpeting, and overturned boxes used at seats, Lavomatic feels like a hidden clubhouse.

Cocktails start at nine euros. Reservations are not accepted and neither are groups, so it’s best to come as a duo or trio.

Open Tuesday and Wednesday from 6pm-1am, and Thursday to Saturday 6pm to 2am.

Photo credit: Lavomatic