Bordeaux Nightlife
You may well be thinking of visiting Bordeaux simply for the renowned brilliance of its wines, in which case the first part of this guide will be preaching to the converted. Suffice to say, that the region is said to be responsible for around a quarter of France's very best wine and there are thought to be around 7,000 wine producing chateaux in the area. Merlot is the most common variety of grape, although Cabernet-Sauvignon is also found in abundance. Cabernet-Franc, Sémillon and Sauvignon are three other popular varieties. The wine known as Bordeaux is the tipple for those who like their wine medium bodied, while pomerol is one for the full-bodied fans. Dry white lovers should try an entre deux mers while those with a sweet tooth could go for either a sauternes or a barsac.
Those enjoying a glass of something may wish to give their palate an extra treat with the addition of some local produce. Duck with mushrooms, pauillac Lamb and oysters are all local specialities that complement the wine, rather than the other way round!
Visitors attempting to eat on the cheap should try the Cassolette Café in the city centre's place de la Victoire. Hearty home cooking is the order of the day here and customers are provided with a checklist menu and pencil with which to choose. Popular with students.
Good local cooking can also be enjoyed at Le Bistrot d'Édouard on place du Parlement. This mid priced restaurant has a good three-course option available and there are outside tables if the weather is suitable.
Restaurant Baud et Millet is a decently priced eatery that caters to cheese and wine lovers. Found on rue Huguerie, this popular restaurant has some 250 cheeses on offer in a variety of interesting forms and there are a huge number of wines as well. An all-you-can-eat buffet option is available for those who can last the pace.
The best seafood in the city does not come cheap but once in a while you just have to treat yourself! Located on Quai de Gueyries, L'Estaquade overlooks the Garonne river and the fishy flavours emanating from the kitchen are something to experience.
For a relaxing evening drinking wine in smart outside establishments try the Saint-Pierre district's Place Camille-Julian. For a more boisterous, and far cheaper evening, head to the student pubs and bars around Place Camille-Julian. There are many good places to try, with Chez Auguste one of the best.
Clubbers have a few fun places to try. One of the best, although only if you like house or electronica, is Le Poppys, which can be found down in the old dockyards in rue Gironde.
In the centre of Bordeaux, one of the city's best gay spots can be found at Bar de l'Hôtel de Ville. Drinking turns in to dancing later in the evening and there is usually some sort of show on a Sunday.
Finally, jazz fans will be able to catch a live act most nights of the week at Le Port de la Lune on quai de la Paludate. The bar is claustrophobic and smoky ? just how jazz aficionados would want it.
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Nightlife and Eating & Drinking
