This popular bar in Berlin, the ‘Bar Americain’ was inspired by singer Serge Gainsbourg (who died the year the bar opened), though it actually has very little to do with Uncle Sam. Staff, however, insist on shaking their cocktails furiously and will happily converse in English (unlike so many other Berlin bars). Well known (and loved) by locals, the bar is often full to capacity. Attempting to order a drink can be tricky, as a lively crowd jostles for space in a dimly lit and slightly pokey space. This isn’t the place to come for a quiet drink, so be prepared for the odd spillage or an elbow in your ribs, but when it comes to kick starting a party, Gainsbourg at least reliably delivers and amid all the commotion staff still make a damn good cocktail. When weather permits, drinkers in need of fresh air pitch up at one of the outdoor tables.