Toulouse. In the prohibition bar
He mounted in the greatest discretion. The agency, open since June 9 in Les Carmes, is not a bar like any other. The storefront is that of an ordinary travel agency. Blue and bright. Entrance is through a back door. The concept is inspired by the infamous prohibition in the United States at the beginning of the 20th century, when the sale of alcohol was done on the sly.
The decor immerses customers in the very special era. Drawn curtains, dark walls, dim light, petrol blue velvet armchairs and some hints of gold. The atmosphere is intimate, the bar has 33 seats.
Behind this idea hides David, the creator, Matthieu, in the kitchen, and Johanna, at the cocktails. Three friends and associates. On his return from a long trip to Uncle Sam’s country, David wants to modernize Al Capone.
“I loved tasting cocktails in ‘speakeasy’ bars, he says. I wanted to recreate this atmosphere here in Toulouse”.
“We recommend to book”
The establishment defines itself as “a cocktail bar where you can eat”. “We strive to offer refined, seasonal and local cuisine. This is very important for the food-cocktail pairings we offer”, specifies Matthieu. Open Wednesday to Saturday, from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m., the discreet bar makes noise. “Reservations are not compulsory but recommended. There is often room before 7 pm and after 11 pm but otherwise, we are often full,” says the creator.
To reserve, once again, the agency is playing the mystery card. No phone number. Reservations are made on the bar’s website, anonymity is possible.
The establishment is looking for a chef de partie in order to be able to extend its hours.
Hocine Zaoui