The Bar in Front of the Bar

Located on a narrow lane just off Monastiraki / Syntagma, The Bar in Front of the Bar began as a pop-up street-bar while its “main bar” was under construction — and refused to disappear. Over time, it matured into a beloved fixture of Athens’ cocktail scene, a small front that hints at greater depths behind. By day and evening it operates as a bright, open, street-level cocktail counter: you lean into the bar, order from a rotating “menu of the day,” and sip outside or passersby can grab take-aways. Its façade is defined by bold sans serif signage that changes phrases regularly (e.g. “We Serve Humans Too”, “Something To Talk To Your Therapist About”) Inside, it’s not just a street bar: hidden behind a door is Rumble in the Jungle, a jungle-themed speakeasy run by the same team. The dual concept offers two experiences: the open street bar and the concealed lounge behind. Cocktails lean inventive and often ephemeral. Housemade ingredients, zero-waste practices, and frequent menu changes are standard. Think palo santo smoke, black garlic, jasmine infusions, and fresh Greek produce. Everything here is served cold — glassware, ice, even some liquor bottles are kept in deep freezers (~ –24°C) to preserve texture and chill. The bar opens early afternoon and runs well into late night (last call often ~2 a.m.). Because of its limited footprint, seating is minimal; many guests stand or walk with their drink. This is a place for drink lovers who relish discovery and playfulness. It isn’t about volume or spectacle — it’s about concept, craft, surprise, and the thrill of finding something hidden right in the heart of Athens.