And around the Gare de l'Est station, Café Moustache is one of the oldest gay bars in the capital. The atmosphere is gay friendly at Raymond Bar, for a drink on the ground floor or dancing in the basement. Just outside the Marais district, you’ll come across the Banana Café, an institution for gay nightlife and recognizable by its exotic facade (and its late happy hour). And to sing both classic and modern-day hits, head to a karaoke night at L’Enchanteur. Other bars with a friendly atmosphere include Café Voulez-Vous on Rue du Temple, Who’s Bar on Rue Saint-Merri, or Duplex on Rue Michel Le Comte. A friendly atmosphere guaranteed! And for dancing and drinking, try the Souffleurs or Yono. Lively atmosphere guaranteed! On Rue des Lombards, the atmosphere is masculine at Bear’s Den with its aptly-named clientele, and more mixed at The Labo Bar Club. This trendy bar attracts a varied clientele that spills onto the surrounding pavements for drinks such as Quetzal.
Nearby, COX is also a firm favourite in the district. For a drink during the day and in the evening, go to the Open Café! With its corner terrace and a few tables, this cafe is without doubt one of the most popular spots as soon as the weather is good.
