A21 Cocktail Lounge

Rarely do you find a cocktail lounge that is better described as an Art Gallery. That is A21. The serve artwork.
Go on a slow night for one-​on-​one service. Timmee patiently shared his love of the craft. His cocktails are best in the world (really… world award winners) and even a novice like me could appreciate them. This is a must for anyone visiting Helsinki.

This stylish bar on Annankatu offers some of the best drinks in town. And this is even proven. They were listed as one of the world’s best bars. And their cocktails are just amazing. Take your time to browse through their list of drinks. It might take you a while to make a decision. Maybe try one of their all time favorites — the birch cooler (yes, referring to the tree). Or just let the friendly staff help you with your choice. They’ll be happy to give you a recommendation based on your preferences.
Some drinks might take a little longer to prepare. Those are marked with a clock on the list. But be patient. They are worth waiting for. Meanwhile you can observe the bars tenders preparing the drinks. It’s quite impressive to watch.
Luckily the bar is named after its address (Annankatu 21). Since it’s hard to identify it as a bar from outside, the number will help you. To get in you have to ring the door bell. The doorman will be there right away to let you in and take your coats. On weekends this place might be quite packed. So especially if you are in a big group you should consider reserving a table.
For everyone who is into cocktail this place is a must.

Visited A21 while in Helsinki and out on the town for a friend’s birthday. At first we didn’t know how to enter the place as you had to ring the bell. Then you should have a reservation for your party. We got lucky and were there early enough so we got a table without a reservation. The décor is trendy and the wait staff very easy on the eyes. Each party has a secluded little area to enjoy each other. The cocktail menu is extensive serving Finnish drink and drinks from all over the world. I enjoyed the rhuba martini — basil & rhubarb martini & it was delicious. Others with me enjoyed the birch — yes like the tree — cooler and a champagne cocktail made with various berries. This is a pricier lounge but it’s understandable as the mixologist does a fantastic job. I’d recommend starting your evening off here with a delicious cocktail as a treat.