Where to drink in Riga
My favourite beer gardens and cocktail bars to visit in beyond the Old Town of Riga, including Labietis, Bar Six, Teatra Bars, Pagalms and the recently opened Baka.
top bars in Riga
© Herbarijs
A selection of my favourite bars in the beautiful capital of Riga, specially around the Old Town.
From cool wine bars to chill out terraces; local beer houses to the trendiest speakeasy.
© Labietis
Labietis
For beer lovers, Labietis is the most authentic beer house in Riga. A brewpub with its own beer factory next door, only separated by a glass from where you can see a part of the brewing process.
They produce around 40 types of beer, a dozen on tap plus the bottled ones. All of them branded, sold and distributed by the same guys. A totally recommended place to visit when hanging out in central Riga.
Recommended beers:
Keninmeita (pale ale)
Baltais aborigens (wheat ipa)
Check the location here.
© Bar Six
Bar Six
Hidden under a big apartment building’s courtyard, there is no sign that can get you to cocktail Bar Six. Anyone who goes there is because they know it is there.
Buzz the “6” indicated on the street doorbell and a gentle bartender will come to welcome and guide you down to the basement where the magic happens: amazing signature cocktails in a dark red, secret atmosphere of an intimate speakeasy.
Recommended cocktails:
Bramble
Latvian whiskey sour
Check the location here.
© Pagalms
Pagalms
Behind the Latvian National Theatre hides this peaceful, chilled terrace surrounded by green bushy trees with views to the charming Riga‘s canal.
Less pretentious than its competitor Kasdarza nearby, Pagalms (“The Yard”) is an ideal place near the Old Town of Riga where to enjoy great drinks in a relaxed atmosphere, either by day or by night.
Recommended drinks:
Gin-cydonia cocktail
Check the location here.
© Teatra Bars
Teatra Bars
If you are looking for a local bar with an authentic local atmosphere, the “Theater bar” in Riga is your place.
Named after a famous theatre across the street, Teatra Bars has the vintage feel of a classic Prohibition bar, also hosting small concerts and theatre performances.
Recommended drinks:
Home whiskey sour
Check the location here.
© Baka
Baka
A newcomer in central Riga, “The Lighthouse” is a stylish, yet minimal bar where to start your night before heading out to the Old Town.
The mix of turquoise and orange lights give Baka an intimate atmosphere that can be seen through its big windows. House specials include a selection of Latvian beers and Mediterranean wines, as well as other spirits.
Recommended drinks:
Baka beer
Primitivo red wine
Check the location here.