Hemingway

Hemingway Cocktail Bar in Cluj-Napoca stands out as a creative, atmospheric venue for an elevated night-out experience. Located on Strada Sextil Pușcariu 9, it captures a distinct personality: blending a rum-and-spirit-rich cocktail program, shisha service, and a mix of cosy and energetic vibes. Stepping inside, you’ll notice the décor leans toward quirky and sensory: burlap-covered stools, skull imagery on the ceiling, neon accents and exposed brick walls — touches that hint at a Cuba inspiration transported into the heart of Transylvania. The bar is praised for its “extensive assortment of quality rum” and signature cocktails like “Jungle Fever” and “Koko Bongo”. The atmosphere evolves through the night: earlier hours bring a relaxed lounge feel (perfect for a well-crafted drink and conversation), while later in the weekend it transitions into a livelier space, with shisha on the terrace, more crowd energy, and more bold music. Many guests point out the upstairs terrace or upper floor gives a slightly more private, quieter zone compared to the downstairs bar. Service consistently receives high marks: staff are described as attentive and skilled, happy to take requests (for example, a surprise cocktail based on your preferred spirit) and to guide you through the menu. Reviews note that while busy nights can mean some waiting, the quality of drinks and the vibe make it worth the visit. The bar’s drink-centric profile is arguably its strongest suit. Whether you’re a rum aficionado, a gin fan, or simply looking for something inventive, Hemingway delivers. Shisha fans are also well catered for, with praise for smooth flavours and a pleasant terrace setup. Food is not the primary focus (though you’ll find small plates and snacks) — the emphasis is on the bar experience: ambience, drink craftsmanship and socialising. In terms of crowd and context: You’ll find a mix of local night-out groups, couples looking for something a bit special, and international visitors who’ve read about Cluj’s growing cocktail scene. The setting in central Cluj-Napoca means it’s well-placed for a pre-dinner drink or the later hours. It may be advisable to arrive earlier on weekends to secure seating, especially if you’d like a terrace spot. Overall, Hemingway Cocktail Bar is a go-to for anyone seeking a step up from the usual pub or club: cocktails with intent, design with character, service with attitude and a vibe that balances relaxed and lively.