Baba Au Rum Athens: A Legendary Cocktail Bar ultimate review

For over 15 years, Baba Au Rum (B.A.R.) has been more than just a bar—it’s a cornerstone of Athens’ cocktail culture and a fixture on The World’s 50 Best Bars list, holding its place for an impressive decade. In 2024, it climbed to #17, cementing its reputation as one of the planet’s most extraordinary drinking destinations.

Walking into Baba Au Rum Athens feels like stepping into a rum lover’s dream. With over 400 varieties of rum sourced from every corner of the globe, this isn’t just a bar—it’s a library of sugarcane spirits, a place where connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike can explore the vast spectrum of flavors that rum has to offer. But what truly sets Baba Au Rum apart isn’t just its staggering selection—it’s the passion, innovation, and storytelling behind every drink.

What Makes Baba Au Rum So Special?

Baba Au Rum isn’t just another trendy cocktail spot—it’s an institution. Founded by Thanos Prunarus, a visionary in the global bar scene, this place has redefined what a rum bar can be. Unlike many high-end cocktail bars that focus on fleeting trends, Baba Au Rum is built on craft, history, and a deep respect for ingredients.

One of the most remarkable things about this bar is its commitment to sustainability and experimentation. Behind the counter, you’ll find a laboratory-style setup where bartenders create house-made syrups, infusions, and even their own sparkling peach wine used in cocktails like the Old Baba. The team doesn’t just follow trends—they set them, constantly pushing the boundaries of what rum-based cocktails can be.

And then there’s the location. Nestled in Psyri, one of Athens’ most vibrant and artistic neighborhoods, Baba Au Rum fits perfectly into the district’s mix of gritty charm and creative energy. The bar itself is a visual feast—retro tropical decor, warm lighting, and an ever-rotating selection of vinyl records spinning in the background. It’s the kind of place where you could easily lose track of time, sipping on expertly crafted drinks while soaking in the atmosphere.

The Cocktail Menu: Where Tradition Meets Innovation

Baba Au Rum’s cocktail menu is a love letter to rum, blending classic techniques with bold creativity. Each drink tells a story, whether it’s a twist on a historic cocktail or an entirely original creation.

The Buccaneer’s Negroni (12€)

A brilliant reimagining of the classic Negroni, this version swaps gin for Brugal 1888 rum from the Dominican Republic, adding layers of tropical fruit, spices, and a touch of vanilla. Topped with grated tonka bean and lime zest, it’s a richer, more complex take on the Italian aperitivo.

Old Baba (10€)

A refreshing, herbaceous blend of Brugal 1888 rum, fresh basil, lime, and house-made peach sparkling wine. The peach wine, fermented in-house, gives the drink a delicate fizz and subtle sweetness, making it dangerously easy to drink.

Spicy Baba No. 7 (11€)

Baba Au Rum’s most popular cocktail since 2010, this drink combines Don Q Reserve 7-year-old rum with ginger, berries, and lime. The result is a perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and citrus—a cocktail that keeps people coming back year after year.

What’s even more impressive? The prices. At 10–12€ per drink, Baba Au Rum offers world-class cocktails at a fraction of the cost you’d find in cities like New York, London, or even Mexico City (where similar drinks can run upwards of 16€).

How to Visit: No Reservations, Just Good Timing

One of the quirks of Baba Au Rum is its no-reservation policy. This isn’t a place where you can book a table—instead, it’s first-come, first-served, adding to its laid-back, neighborhood-bar vibe.

If you want to avoid the crowds, the best time to arrive is around 7 PM, when the bar is still relatively quiet. By 10 PM, the place is usually packed, with locals and travelers alike vying for a spot. Sitting at the bar itself is the best experience, as you get to watch the bartenders work their magic, crafting each drink with precision and flair.

Final Thoughts: Why Baba Au Rum Deserves Its Global Acclaim

Baba Au Rum isn’t just a bar—it’s a destination. Whether you’re a rum enthusiast, a cocktail geek, or just someone looking for an unforgettable night out in Athens, this place delivers on every level.

From its incredible rum selection to its innovative cocktails, from its perfect location in Psyri to its unpretentious, welcoming vibe, Baba Au Rum has earned its place among the world’s best bars. And with prices this reasonable, there’s no excuse not to visit—more than once.

Plan Your Visit:
📍 Address: Klitiou 6, Psyri, Athens
🕒 Hours: Daily, 7 PM–2 AM
💰 Price Range: 10–12€ per cocktail
🍹 Must-Try: Spicy Baba No. 7, Buccaneer’s Negroni

If you’re heading to Athens, do not miss this place. It’s not just a bar—it’s an experience.

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