After stepping through the fridge door at the back of a pastrami shop in Barcelona's trendy El Born district, the beautiful curving wooden panelling of Paradiso's front bar is the last thing you expect to see. Owner Giacomo Giannotti and his crew worked hard in Paradiso's off-site laboratory to design the Universo menu, which physically lights up in the dark, to complement the spectacular décor.

The sophisticated beverages on the luminous menu, such as the Space Colada and the Volcano Negroni, which is presented with a little dry ice volcano exploding over the glass, continue the element of surprise. In what is one of the best cocktail bars in Barcelona, sample an "experience" with a twist via the Great Gatsby; a smoked, vanilla, and chocolate infusion of Macallan Amber, Ramazzotti Amaro, truffle honey, lavender bitters, and served with...well, certain things should remain secret.

Address: Carrer de Rera Palau 4, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
Website: paradiso.cat/en

Dry Martini is a Barcelona cocktail establishment that has become a global icon in the cocktail world. It first opened its doors more than 30 years ago. The Dry Martini Cocktail Bar was once a Martinera, serving solely Dry Martinis when it was run by Don Pere Carbonell, the father of mixology. Other cocktails included the Gin Fizz, Margaritas, Negronis, Whiskey Sours, and so on.

When Javier de las Muelas received the bequest, he wanted to keep the essence of a classic cocktail bar: he kept the English style of a cocktail bar: leather, wood, and brass; he expanded the menu with classic cocktail recreations and its famous new collections of genuine, exclusive, and innovative cocktails; and he kept the English style of a cocktail bar: leather, wood, and brass. In the cocktail realm, he also added feminine themes and touches. All while keeping the essence of the cocktail that gives it its name: Dry Martini. The art collection on the walls dedicated to this famous cocktail is one example. The Dry Martini By Javier de las Muelas is on The World’s 50 Best Bars list for the seventh year in a row, and the 6th best bar of all time achievers worldwide and first for Europe also as the third gin best world bar.

Address: Carrer d'Aribau, 162, 166, 08036 Barcelona
Website: drymartiniorg.com/locales/dry-martini-v2

Aside from the libations, La Whiskeria is a lovely looking venue that was founded in 1969 by the owners of Boadas as a sort of VIP nightspot. It preserves a timeless elegance, with an homage to the American Jazz Age, thanks to a vintage gramophone player, pendulum clock, art deco lighting, and gilt-framed oil paintings. Upstairs, there's a nice lounge with low tables and upholstered seats, a cozy contrast to the high stools and wall-affixed tables on the street level; it's the ideal spot for a date or a private birthday celebration.

La Whiskeria is a one-stop-shop for the discerning drinker, with over 250 references ranging from single malts to blends, bourbons, and Scotches. The knowledgeable bar staff can rustle up any number of whisky-based cocktails, made with their own homemade bitters and syrups, or fruit-infused spirits, in addition to legendary brands like Balvenie, Blantons, and Kavalan. Their cocktail menu features unique twists on classics like the highball and whiskey sour. A true aficionado would request a draught from one of the many independent local and international distilleries that they support.

Address: Carrer de les Sitges, 3, 08001 Barcelona
Instagram: instagram.com/lawhiskeriabcn

The Bloody Mary Cocktail Lounge is located in Gràcia, on a small street just off Avinguda Diagonal, yet not far from the hustle and activity. Alessandro, the bartender, used to work at the nearby Hotel Casa Fuster, and his charisma is matched by his extensive cocktail knowledge. Patrons can sit at the bar or on one of three attractive brown Chester sofas in this dimly lit environment.

With ten different Bloody Mary variants to pick from, the institution more than lives up to its name. The Bloody Cesar (made with tomato juice packed with clams) and the Red Snapper are two dishes you should try (an infused gin recipe using rosemary and garlic). Cocktails like the Aunt Theresa (Ron Santa Teresa, Passoa, Lemon, Passion Fruit, Coco Roasted Pineapple) and The Peruvian are signature beverages (Pisco Governor, Liquor Herbs, Lemon, Raspberry). Classic cocktails such as the Whiskey Sour (Buffalo Trace bourbon, lemon, sugar syrup) and the Mint Julep are also offered (Wild Turkey, Lemon, Mint, Angostura, Ginger Ale). Gin Tonic aficionados will not feel left out, which is just as well because there are so many in Barcelona. The menu offers twenty-two varieties of Gin Tonic, such as the Hendrick’s (Cucumber, Rose Petals, Fever-Tree) and the Berkeley Square (Lemon basil leaf, Fever-Tree) to name a couple.

Address: Carrer de Ferrer de Blanes, 3, 08012 Barcelona
Website: bloodymarybcn.es

Two Schmucks in Barcelona has one of the best moods in the business. Its 'five-star dive bar' motif mixes the laid-back party vibes of a classic dive bar with the serious, professional cocktails and service found in the world's greatest hotel bars. The little pub is located in El Raval's hipster area and is a physical manifestation of proprietor Moe Aljaff's unique personality. Two Schmucks oozes irreverence, with tattered Converse dangling from steel girders and placards that read phrases that should not be printed.

The bar's cocktail menu spans both ends of the spectrum, with a happy hour selling beer, shots, and grilled cheese toasties on one hand, and refined drinks like the Spaniard and Schmuck 50/50, both of which come with cheese pairings on the other. But the best part about Two Schmucks is that you can kick your feet up, sip exquisite cocktails, and know that the night may end with tables dancing.

Address: Carrer de Joaquín Costa, 52, 08001 Barcelona
Website: two-schmucks.com

Few pubs can compare to Bar Marsella when it comes to taking a step back in time and immersing yourself in local history. This 200-year-old business, dubbed the "oldest pub in Barcelona", is brimming with personality. Peeling ceilings, cobweb-covered chandeliers, and worn-out floor tiles give the impression of entering a museum rather than a bar. Famous individuals such as Dal, Picasso, Gaud, and Hemingway were formerly regulars here, which adds to the authenticity.

The eclectic mix of locals and tourists who love the bohemian way of life and the dark underbelly of Barcelona's social scene go to Bar Marsella because of its distinctive attraction. The bar is somewhat of a hidden gem, tucked away off the bottom of the Rambla de Raval, adding to its mystique. This does mean that it gets busy quickly, so arrive right when it opens to taste its legendary absinthe or rocket-fuel strong cocktails.

Address: Carrer de Sant Pau, 65, 08001 Barcelona
Instagram: instagram.com/barmarsella

This alchemist-themed bar - Dr. Stravinsky, owned by the same mastermind behind the award-winning Paradiso, is another treat for the senses; especially if you failed chemistry in high school. You'll be plunged into a world of liquids and potions as soon as you walk through the beautiful crimson doors of this hidden jewel. These, together with old-school scientific equipment kitted out inside glass cabinets, are spectacularly lighted inside jars and flasks that line the bar's walls.

But don't be fooled by these so-called 'props,' because practically all of them are created on-site and utilized in the cocktails. In reality, inside his alchemist's den, Stravinsky distills many of his own spirits. And the ingredients in his inventive cocktails - or rather, prescriptions – are exactly what you'd expect from a doctor. Dill, thyme, kombucha, and kefir are just a few of the herbs and spices he employs in his home-distilled spirits.

Address: Carrer dels Miralles, 5. Barcelona
Website: drstravinsky.cat

Vai Moana, located just on the famed Bogatell Beach, is the ideal site to watch the sunset over the water while sipping a refreshing cocktail. This local favorite is wonderfully basic and provides a laid-back setting for all ages to enjoy with its friendly service and rustic Polynesian-style vibe. It's especially popular with families, because of its kid-friendly menu, which combines freshly cooked Mediterranean cuisine with foreign fare.

It doesn't matter if you want to try a delicious Spanish paella, a refreshing Hawaiian Poke, or a juicy burger. These delectable appetizers are accompanied by a delectable menu of classic and signature beverages for the adults; the frozen margaritas are particularly popular. All of this can be enjoyed while relaxing on a sunbed or in a bar.

Address: Av. del Litoral, s/n, 08005 Barcelona
Website: panteabeach.com/vai-moana

CocoVail Beer Hall, located just around the corner from Casa Batlló in the heart of Barcelona, is one of the city's most popular bars, and with good reason. This is the place to be whether you want to have a relaxed pint with friends, watch the big game on the big screen, or challenge a friend to a game of Jenga.

With its frenetic environment, fantastic sounds, and friendly staff, the colorful Americana-style craft beer hall attracts an international crowd. Aside from board games, it has a large range of 24 craft beers on tap as well as a menu of excellent American-style snacks. It's weekly promotional nights, which include discounts and special offers, might also help you save a few bucks. Simply said, this popular pub is your home away from home, with a clever slogan to match – "Feel At Home".

Address: Carrer d'Aragó, 284, 08009 Barcelona
Website: cocovailbeerhall.com