Bar 228 at the legendary Le Meurice is an elegant, cosy parlour that predictably surpasses the average, nondescript hotel bar (it doesn’t hurt that Philippe Starck gave it a recent refurbishment). Leather upholstery, crystal decanters and dim lighting add to the romance of the setting, which has been fashioned to resemble the bygone era of absinthe and Hemingway in 1920s Paris. The drinks are skilfully crafted, with over 300 cocktails to choose from and 50 whiskies to suit the connoisseur. Food is also typically Parisian with some added indulgences; in addition to its famed array of club sandwiches, Bar 228’s Croque Meurice, a deluxe, cheese-laden version of the classic dish, is voted one of Paris’ best. Live jazz can be heard most evenings and goes on till late, so if you happen to be taking a stroll around Paris at midnight, this could be just the stop for that final digestif.