A sleek black bar greets you upon entrance to El Libertador, one of the best bars in Bogotá, and a few sofas with a gold curtain backdrop serve as a small lounge to the right. This is the fast-paced section, with plenty of shaking at the bar and drinks being served with seemingly careless abandon. Further to the left is large room with retro lanterns, brown distressed leather sofas and deer heads fastened to the walls. The atmosphere is very relaxed, and well-regarded bands (ranging from electronic to salsa) often play here. There are plenty of upmarket customers but a young contingent also, all keen to enjoy the sophisticated ambience in a low-key setting. Every type of drink conceivable is served with panache, though mostly no-frills liquor such as brandy and cognac. El Libertador is a refined bar without false pretensions, and it’s a great place to relax in style.