Bitter Bar image

Bitter Bar

Bar Cocktail bar

😠 Looked this place up online and saw that it was a highly recommended cocktail bar in Florence. Drinks were fine but unfortunately service was really strange / atmosphere was unwelcoming from the start. Waiter was pretty soft spoken which is fine, but we didn’t quite hear what he said when he explain... People often mention cocktails, drinks, cocktail, experience, menu, drink, friendly, bartender, Bitter, Florence,


Address

Via di Mezzo, 28/30r, 50121 Firenze FI, Italy

Website

www.bitterbarfirenze.it

Contact

+39 380 646 1020

Rating on Google Maps

4.40 (362 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Friday: 8 pm to 2 am
  • Saturday: 8 pm to 2 am
  • Sunday: Closed
  • Monday: 8 pm to 2 am
  • Tuesday: 8 pm to 2 am
  • Wednesday: 8 pm to 2 am
  • Thursday: 8 pm to 2 am

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: cocktails (30) drinks (21) cocktail (19) experience (17) menu (16) drink (14) friendly (10) bartender (9) Bitter (9) Florence (8)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Elli M. 1 year ago on Google
    BEST COCKTAIL BAR. Firstly, I loved that you couldn’t just walk in; instead, you have to ring the bell and one of the bartenders would come and take you to your table. We were sitting on this cozy red sofa next to the bar and the entrance, which I normally avoid because the door swinging open makes me cold, but that wasn't an issue here. One of the bartenders then brought us each a glass of citrus water and explained how ordering works. Instead of a menu, they simply ask you what you like and make you the perfect drink. My expectations were definitely exceeded. The cocktails are strong and delicious. The vibes were amazing, bartenders were very friendly, and I can’t wait to go back there again.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Robine T. 2 years ago on Google
    Tourist trap! The ambiance was very nice, go there if you want a new experience and “sort of” step back in time, but the cocktails were not worth the money because: . 1. Cheap alcohol which we could taste immediately 2. The mix ratio was not ok, good cocktails should ‘glide’. These ones didn’t. 3. They tried to create their own cocktails but the mix of different alcoholic & non-alcoholics did not resonate with each other. The result: nice bar, but overpriced drinks not worth your money.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 AJ L. 1 year ago on Google
    This bar is my favorite in Florence. They don’t have a menu. The host is a genius who will build you a drink just from your preferences and mood. The Italian take on a speakeasy. It’s an absolute must try.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Raymonde B. 1 year ago on Google
    I showed up at the recommendation of a friend who had been here before. I walked in not knowing what to expect. The bartender (not waiter) shows up at our table and asks what we were “feeling like”. He presented no menu but wanted to know what flavors we wanted to taste (not brand of alcohol and not cocktail name). After telling him what I was feeling he returned shortly with a cocktail that I would have thought of making for myself…and yet I enjoyed it so much i had 4. Highly recommends popping into this very cool unique speak easy kinda vibe bar!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Patricia M. 4 years ago on Google
    This bar will test anyone’s patience: 10:30pm you ring and a guy comes out and tell you to wait 15 minutes, while you see the bar is half empty. 10:50pm Guy comes again and tells you to wait 5 minutes more while you see six more people who rang and did not want to wait. Nobody has been let in in these 20 minutes but two tables have left. 10:55pm Guy let us in. 11:15pm Guy comes to see what we want to order. 11:31pm drinks are served. One hour since we rang the door and at least 20 people tried to come in but turned down and left. Music nice, drinks nice. Place half empty all night long. Clearly no business sense or intention of service. We drank one, laughed at all of it and left.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Max T. 2 years ago on Google
    Nice ambience and cosy bar. Little game to get inside, but that’s part of the cocktail bar game. The cocktails were a minus though. Amongst our group we’ve had multiple different cocktails. Non were up to par. A change of menu or redesign of the current cocktails is advisable. The cocktails lack any sort of balance, what is sort of the minimum standard for cocktails. Compared to any other cocktail bar we frequent, we cannot (unfortunately) recommend this bar until they fix the cocktail menu. The people there are experienced bar professionals, so I’m quite sure they’ll be able to fix the menu soon. I wish them all the best!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Mingee L. 2 years ago on Google
    High quality of cocktails. Elegant&nice people working. Cozy, old fashion style interior design. Music TOP. Everything is very good but the space between the seats are too narrow and the price is high so I give 4 stars. But I’d say it’s definitely worthy.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sheldon H. 3 months ago on Google • 128 reviews New
    Mehran made my evening a stellar experience and I'll return the next time I'm in town. Good value for the quality. I trusted his expertise and his passion for good mixology gave me two new drinks I'd never tried and enjoyed. Thanks for a great evening of discussion on a variety of topics. Wish you the best in your continued endeavors 🫡

  • 5/5 shix S. 10 months ago on Google • 32 reviews
    I shocked the personalize my cocktail as what I felt in love with that combination I explained them… one of the place which make me feel really taking care of … people who work there are really polite and explaining you all the things you have to know about your cocktails details. I would like to go back there more often and thank you guys for that special cocktail you made well done 🥰
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sondra T. 1 year ago on Google • 14 reviews
    This is truly a special place and unique cocktail experience. We love going to new bars and asking the bartender to make us whatever they want. We do this so we can try new things and have something our bartender loves (you know it’s good if they like it). Bitter Bar is the only place we’ve been where their concept is just that, they choose the drink for you based off of the flavors you enjoy. All of the drinks we had were complex, unique, and delicious. You can taste the love they put into their recipes. And the ambiance of the bar is incredible too. A relaxed and interesting speakeasy vibe that is the perfect getaway from the busy city. If you love cocktails please try Bitter Bar! If we didn’t live so far it would be our usual spot.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Martin Milodanovic (. 1 year ago on Google
    Don't just walk past this bar! It might seem a little hidden at the corner of a street, though it deserves every attention. The only bartender (Michael) is the mastermind behind the creative menu, that is updated every few months. Trust me, he pays attention to every single detail while doing his artform, and also to make your experience unforgettable. The interior and the atmosphere will take you back in time and you wish you were stuck there past every closing time. Magnificent!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Patrick R. 1 year ago on Google
    I stopped in Bitter Bar the other day in the early evening -- I had marked this place as a "must visit" spot in Florence from other positive reviews. The bar was completely empty at 830PM and my group was quickly given a spot. The inside is very well decorated and there is lots of detail given to the space. Service was emotionless and the staff member that took our order seemed bothered by our presence. Despite being the only table of guests, our drinks took more than 20 minutes to arrive. We had a member of our group that was being rather indecisive (asking for more time to make a drink) but the staff refused to start making drinks until they had the "full drink" order. I thought the refusal was odd given the bar was empty and other places were happy to oblige. When the drinks finally arrived, none of us were particularly impressed or pleased with our choices. It felt like the drinks were either poorly made or missing ingredients. My drink, for example, was completely devoid of anything sweet, completely out of balance (and this is from someone who loves a citrusy, dry cocktail!). The group ordered 5 different drinks from the menu and only one was something that I would consider ordering again. I've been to cocktail bars in 20+ cities and not a single one stuck out in a negative way like this. (Note -- I did notice that at least a couple of recent reviews that other people have experience similar quality issues with their drinks, particularly with the current menu) I would recommend you spend your money and time elsewhere in Firenze -- there are many fantastic cocktail bars in the city and this one falls short in almost every way.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mahsa M. 10 months ago on Google
    "The highlight of this cocktail bar is undoubtedly their customized cocktails. With no menu in sight, the talented mixologists take the time to understand your preferences and craft a tailor-made drink just for you. It's a delightful and personal touch that guarantees a unique and satisfying experience."
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Loren 1 year ago on Google
    This place is a bit tucked away from some of the busier areas but worth a visit if you like cocktails (like me!), especially in a place like Italy where there tends to be much more focus on wine. The cocktails are fun and yummy and the service is good. Definitely worth a stop!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Frank M. 2 years ago on Google
    This place is fabulous and unique! Once you figure out the trick to getting in you're in for a great night! The cocktails are innovative and delicious! Mushroom liqueur? Who'd have thought it would be so tasty!? Wonderful speakeasy vibe with funky decor with friendly and sharply dressed bartender!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Haakon H. 6 months ago on Google • 78 reviews
    This is definitely unlike your standard cocktail bar. A door with a ringer, no set menu, and personalized drinks! The drink I received was fantastic, similar to a Boulevardier (an old favorite of mine), and the staff were very knowledgeable and friendly. Also, the place itself was wonderfully quiet and calm. Perfect for a group who wishes to spend a bit more on a GREAT drink and simultaneously have an audible discussion. I believe my drink contained Woodford Reserve and Punt e Mes, which was a great combination.

  • 5/5 Elham Z. 2 months ago on Google • 17 reviews New
    Nestled in the heart of Florence, Bitter Bar is a haven for those seeking an authentic and refined cocktail experience. From the moment you step inside, you're transported to a bygone era of elegance and sophistication. The ambiance at Bitter Bar is simply enchanting. Think dimly lit interiors and an intimate atmosphere that invites conversation and relaxation. Whether you're visiting for a romantic evening or catching up with friends, the ambiance sets the perfect tone for an unforgettable experience. But it's not just the ambiance that sets Bitter Bar apart; it's the expertly crafted cocktails that steal the show. The bartenders here are true artisans, each drink meticulously prepared with precision and flair. From classic concoctions to innovative creations, every sip is a journey for the senses. Overall, Bitter Bar is a gem in Florence's bustling cocktail scene. Impeccable service, exquisite drinks, and an ambiance that exudes old-world charm make it a must-visit for anyone with an appreciation for the finer things in life. Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur or simply looking for a memorable night out, Bitter Bar delivers an experience that's truly unforgettable.

  • 5/5 Jake B. 6 months ago on Google • 13 reviews
    I had a great experience here. The cocktails were very good and the service was excellent. It is a chill, quiet bar; perfect for the evening I had - would be excellent spot for a date night. Not the type of place for large parties or getting wild as it’s a more intimate venue. Looking forward to recommending it to my friends as a stop when in Florence.

  • 5/5 Curtis M. 6 months ago on Google • 4 reviews
    Very friendly service from the server and bartender. Both made us feel welcome and happily chatted with us. Atmosphere was very relaxed with some brilliant 60s/70s music. Drinks were made very accurate to our taste going off the most minimal and basic instructions. Very much an intimate environment for a nice relaxing experience.

  • 5/5 Chessie B. 4 months ago on Google • 4 reviews
    Excellent service and overall experience. We came as a group of 5 friends and we all were given drinks to our taste. Would recommend to anyone coming to Florence!

  • 5/5 Behzad G. 5 months ago on Google
    Delicious cocktails. The bar tenders are so friendly, humble, professional and knowledgeable about the history of the drinks. They do know their job very well. Also the price is reasonable. If you want to spend a romantic night with your lover, this is exactly where you should go.

  • 5/5 Alexandra W. 11 months ago on Google
    Our new favourite place in Florence! Mehran was so welcoming and listened to our taste preferences, he came back with two fabulous cocktails. He described perfectly how they would suit what we had asked for and they tasted amazing. The vintage pictures, mirrors and cabinets make the space really warm and welcoming. The atmosphere was sophisticated but relaxed. Highly recommend! We'll be back!

  • 5/5 Jude Y. 2 years ago on Google
    Would be a great date spot! Came with some friends and we were told to keep the noise down a bit, which makes sense as it’s a speakeasy. The cocktails were good and the aesthetic is 10/10

  • 5/5 Megan B. 1 year ago on Google
    Awesome bar! The cocktails were delicious and the bartender was very friendly and helpful! We had drinks from the menu then he made us a drinks based on what we like that weren't on the menu and they were fantastic as well. We would definitely go back.

  • 5/5 Kyle L. 1 year ago on Google
    High quality speak easy like environment. Once you figure out the trick in,(ring the bell and wait a touch) we were greeted by a lovely bartender that helped us through. Lovely atmosphere with the music to match. It appears that the menu changes regularly with interesting cocktails. Yes it was 14€ a drink but I feel it was very much worth it for the whole experience.

  • 5/5 Matthew M. 1 year ago on Google
    Wonderful and original drinks. Whether truly original or takes on classics, there is something for everyone to enjoy – even those that do not want alcohol. The interior is a wonderful expression of the 1920s, and the host/bartender/owner(?) delivers on the gracious charm. Stop by, patiently wait at the door, and enjoy a drink that is worth the trip.

  • 5/5 lili l. 4 years ago on Google
    Wonderful and well balanced cocktails with interesting and artisanal ingredients. The bar tender is excellent at mixing the drinks and at concocting new ones on the spot. They will advise you on what to try depending on your preferences. The bar itself has a beautiful interior and super friendly staff. Highly recommended!

  • 5/5 Samuel M. 4 years ago on Google
    Speakeasy atmosphere, great unique cocktails and an overall fantastic experience. Highly recommended.

  • 5/5 agi A. 4 years ago on Google
    Amazing atmosphere , music , decor , coctails. Tip top . Very friendly and carrying stuff. Best bar in Florence !

  • 5/5 Paul O. 4 years ago on Google
    Amazing cocktails and super friendly staff. The cocktail menu is extensive and very creative. Highly recommend! Tip: Grab some cocktails here before you go to dinner or for a kebab around the corner at Mesopotamia

  • 5/5 Luca S. 2 years ago on Google
    I hardly give five stars, but it's the place to be. If You like a cocktail bar with excellent cocktails quality, special location and awesome service you should try. They even serve hot dogs.

  • 5/5 Kevin S. 2 years ago on Google
    Lovely high-end quality bar in 20s style with nice music and ambiance but most importantly very delicious cocktails.

  • 1/5 Freya P. 6 months ago on Google • 1 review
    Looked this place up online and saw that it was a highly recommended cocktail bar in Florence. Drinks were fine but unfortunately service was really strange / atmosphere was unwelcoming from the start. Waiter was pretty soft spoken which is fine, but we didn’t quite hear what he said when he explained the menu. When ordering I asked about a bramble which they did not have ingredients for - no problem with me I just asked if they could do a clover club instead. This they also didn’t have ingredients for. Finally I was a little unsure at this point and asked for a Hugo which I was told would not meet the minimum €15 charge. The server explained that I needed to pick a base spirit and he would recommend a drink - I apologised for not hearing his instructions properly at the beginning but he still gave me a snide kind of attitude. My friend asked for a whisky sour and this was fine. The drinks were okay but again every interaction with the server felt awkward and like we were not welcome. It is also true that the bathroom doesn’t have a lock. At the end of this after continued weird atmosphere when handing us the bill the waiter told my friend she had beautiful eyes. We were a bit confused because it seemed like he wished we were not there and all of a sudden he is complimenting her. Really strange experience but we had a laugh about it after - drinks were alright but you’re also paying for the experience which we both found unsettling.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 WI H. 6 months ago on Google • 2 reviews
    Bitter Bar was an amazing experience. The cocktails were superb and Amir and Mahren were so friendly and were mixology experts. Will definitely come back. What a gem!


Call +39 380 646 1020 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Spirits
    • ✓️ Cocktails
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible toilet
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible seating
    • ✗ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Seating
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✗ Delivery
    • ✗ Takeaway

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