Superfine

On the short walk from Ledru-Rollin to Superfine, the useful landmark is the passage itself. Number 8 is on Passage Josset, off the busier streets between Bastille and Charonne. People who knew the old Motel will recognise the address sooner than the room. In place of the old bar there is polished wood underfoot, a long metal counter and tables that several parties can share.

The people behind the counter help explain why the drinks can look so simple and taste so elaborate. Vincent Pinceloup and Guillaume Drouot came to the project with experience at Monsieur Antoine and Danico. Take their White Forest Martini: the familiar cold, clear drink has been recast with sake, fir and tarragon. The Bloody Mary-ish goes in a different direction, with mezcal and dashi giving the drink smoke and savoury depth. Neither example means the whole table needs to order cocktails. Beer by the can, natural wine and drinks made without alcohol are part of the offering too.

The open kitchen is a reason to build an evening here instead of adding the bar as a last stop after dinner. Delphine Laguerre's cooking borrows the shapes of American bar snacks without repeating the usual fillings. An aubergine katsu replaces the patty in one burger; miso ketchup brings the sweetness back into balance. Watch for changes to the food and drinks rather than relying on a particular dish being available.

For a group, check the bar's reservation page for availability before heading over. A seat at the counter makes more sense for someone following the bartenders' work; a shared table is the better bet for conversation over food. Superfine placed seventh in the 2026 French Bar Awards and 138th in Top 500 Bars that year.