Helena W.
Yelp
Baranaan is by far my favorite bar in Paris. It's gotten so 'bad' that I don't even fancy going to any other bar these days. Thankfully, my friends share my opinion. Here are some reasons why:
- The cocktails. They are nothing short of amazing! I must have tried about every cocktail on the menu now, and there is really something for everyone. I tend to order the same one every time now as I've found my favorite (from the fall/winter menu: Panjabi Massala, a chai-based cocktail that tastes like a Christmas explosion, and from the spring/summer menu: Barabanaan, a cocktail that tastes something like a banana cardamom milkshake). I don't mind the prices at all (10-14€), because these creations are absolutely unique and delicious. Should you want something different, the bartenders can always make a custom made cocktail for you.
- The tapas. I've brought several of my Indian friends here, and again, we've tried pretty much everything on the menu. They say everything tastes really authentic, and "like a better than average place back in India". What stands out to me personally is the squid, the lentil falafels, and the butter chicken. I could eat this all day, every day...! Of course, the naan is delicious and a much needed side dish for soaking up that alcohol you're sure to consume, seeing as the drinks are so yummy...
- The concept. I adore the concept of this bar, first it being hidden away in the back of Elaichi, and then the idea of being in a train in India. The cocktail menu is designed like a passport, there are "windows" (tv screens) showing the landscape passing by.
- The staff/owners. Every time we've gone to Baranaan, we always see the same staff working here. They are super friendly and always try to be very accommodating, and that pretty much goes for all of them. We've also had a chat with the owners sometimes as they tend to frequent the bar - very friendly guys. Honestly, the staff/owners alone make it worth coming back here! Great service.
- The noise level. They play a lot of Indian music but it never gets in the way of conversation. Perhaps it's a little louder on weekends, but on weekdays, we always manage to talk to each other without going deaf and/or losing our voices.
The combination of all of the above is enough for me to always want to return here. It's the kind of place where you want to be from the time it opens (18.30) all the way until closing time.
The only regret I have, is not discovering this place earlier than I did. I plan on visiting as often as I can! ;)