A little French paradise in the culturally diverse country of India is the city of Pondicherry. Apart from showcasing its French architecture, the city has a lot to offer. From several tourist attractions to authentic French bakeries and cafes, this town is vibrant, to say the least.
Dotted with various bars and pubs, this city gives you the perfect ambiance to chug a couple drinks and unwind. Here’s a list of the 10 best bars and pubs in Pondicherry that will help you end your night on a high note!
Imagine sitting by a lovely beach and enjoying a couple of drinks while watching the sunset. Beautiful, isn’t it? Located right by the popular Rock beach of Pondicherry, L’Aqua bar promises to give you this gorgeous beach view experience. With the stunning view it offers you might find it difficult to get a balcony or rooftop table, so make sure you make prior reservations or arrive early. Apart from local beers and wines, you can also try the various mouth-watering dishes and mocktails on their menu. One of the must-tries here is the Hawaiian Burger.
Location: Ajanta Sea View, 50, Goubert Ave, White Town.
Timings: 11 am to 11 pm.
Average Cost For Two: INR 1,200.
Also read: Best Homestays In Pondicherry
Like its name, the Storytellers’ bar has a storytelling decor with several books narrating different stories. And to add to it, they also have antique typewriters hanging from the walls. Not only do they have themed decor, but also host themed parties with raging music and a DJ. You can also visit this bar on weekends and groove to some live music.
Other than the great ambiance and music, you can relish the delicious finger food and try some of their unique craft cocktails. Chocolate Filter Kaapi cocktail, with chocolate and coffee as main ingredients, and Tai Mai cocktail made out of rum and fresh juices are a must-try. The Storytellers’ Bar is a go-to place on any given weeknight.
Location: 23, Goubert Ave, White Town.
Timings: 7 pm to 11 pm on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
Average Cost For Two: INR 1,500.
Another great place to enjoy the nightlife of Pondicherry would be the Flaming Dragons Lounge & Nightlife. Just like the above two, this resto-bar is also located in the White Town area of Pondy. With flaming red walls, glowing lights, and paintings of dragons and Chinese folks in traditional attires, this bar gives you a total oriental vibe.
Not only does their decor reflect oriental decor, but their menu also has several amazing oriental cuisines. If you’re craving some authentic Chinese food, then this would be a great choice. After enjoying some ramen and dimsums with some colorful cocktails, you can always hit the dance floor playing some roaring music.
Location: No 7, La Bourdonnais St, White Town.
Timings: 11 am to 2 am.
Average Cost For Two: INR 1,200.
As you must have already guessed, the Cosy Resto Pub is a restaurant plus a pub. Thanks to the talented artists who filled the interiors of the pub with their creative artwork, giving it a very artsy ambiance. And, they also have a very cool DJ to get you grooving to some pumping Bollywood music, to literally set the tone of the pub.
Apart from the delectable food and drink options, they also have a rooftop set-up. With golden lights hanging all over, it creates the perfect setting for enjoying your drinks under the open sky. The pub also has free entry for couples and girls. So, get your girl gang ready to enter this pub without paying a dime.
Location: No.26, Anna Salai, Raja Rajeswari Nagar, Heritage Town.
Timings: 11 am to 11 pm.
Average Cost For Two: INR 900.
Hopper’s Bar & Kitchen is one of the best places to come and hang with your friends in Pondicherry. With bricked walls and well-lit interiors, this bar gives an aesthetically pleasing ambiance. They also have a dance floor reserved especially for you to come and show some moves.
Other than the posh interiors, they also serve smoking hot gourmet food with some refreshing cocktails garnished uniquely. If you happen to visit Pondicherry during Halloween, this bar is a must visit at that time. They host Halloween parties with fun events, where you can also get some face painting done.
Location: Plot No: 2 & 3, 3rd floor, 1st Cross St, Nellithope, Anna Nagar.
Timings: 12 pm to 1 am.
Average Cost For Two: INR 1,200.
With a simple yet classy decor, the Pasta Veneto is one of the must-try places in Pondicherry. A subtle ambience with good music, makes it a lovely place to grab a meal with your family or friends. And, to give you a chance to relish your meal with the view of the lively city of Pondicherry, they even have a roof-top dining option.
If you’re looking to get a bite of some lip-smacking Italian dishes, then this bar would be a great choice. Like the name suggests, from pasta and burgers to pizzas and sandwiches, the Pasta Bar Veneto has it all. Served along with chilled beer or mint Mojito, these delicacies make up a perfect meal.
Location: 248, Mission St, MG Road Area.
Timings: 12 pm to 10:30 pm.
Average Cost For Two: INR 900.
Also read: 1 Day Walking Tour Of Pondicherry: Best Places To Visit
If you’re a party animal you would love to visit the Way To Fly pub in Pondy. With neon-lighted wall arts, flashy lights, and thumping music, you won’t be able to resist the urge to dance. Not only do they have an amazing DJ, but also a spacious and bright dance floor for you and your gang to shake a leg.
To catch a break from all the dancing, you can devour the appetizing food they serve and sip on a few drinks. Though they don’t have many options for a beer lover, you can definitely find a variety of pocket-friendly cocktail options.
Location: 3rd Floor No 80, 82, Chetty St, Heritage Town.
Timings: 7 pm to 12 am.
Average Cost For Two: INR 900.
If you’re looking for a place to avoid all the blaring music and just have a good conversation, then this is the place. Level 4 Sports Bar, as you might have guessed is a little sports bar with indoor games like foosball and carrom. What else do you need when you can bond over a healthy game of foosball and enjoy a drink!
Another thing this bar is famous for is cocktails. Apart from the regular cocktail options, you’ll find at other bars, this one offers fresh fruit cocktails that are sure to make you ask for more. And, to accompany these drinks you can always order the delectable dishes on the menu.
Location: 237, Bussy St, MG Road Area.
Timings: 11 am to 11 pm.
Average Cost For Two: INR 1,200.
Though the exteriors might not make an impression, the interiors of this lounge are sure to leave you stunned. With elegant interiors and chic furnishings, the Hook lounge will definitely keep you hooked to its ambiance. Not only do they have a warm and friendly staff, but also lip-smacking food and drinks. While you’re here do try the house's special cocktails.
Another reason to check out this bar is the gorgeous sea view it offers from its rooftop terrace. If you feel like having a private party with a view of the appealing Bay of Bengal, then you don’t have to look any further.
Location: 52/A, Goubert Avenue, beach road.
Timings: 1:30 pm to 10:45 pm.
Average Cost For Two: N/A
Also read: 7 Best Hostels In Pondicherry
BricZ resto Bar is a hidden gem on the vibrant streets of Pondicherry. With glowy lights all over the place, this bar has a pretty cool and cozy ambiance for you to chill with your friends or partner.
What makes this one of the best bars in Pondicherry, is the wide variety of food and drinks. Some of the must-try dishes at this bar are vegetarian gold coins, schezwan peanut fried rice, and garlic butter chicken.
Location: 183, Kamaraj Salai, Naveena Garden, Brindavan Colony.
Timings: 11 am to 11 pm.
Average Cost For Two: N/A
Summing Up
The essence of Pondicherry’s happening nightlife is its vivacious bars and pubs. Without catching a glimpse of these high-spirited places, a trip to Pondy is as good as incomplete. Now that you know of all the best bars and pubs in Pondicherry, you can make the best of your trip to this vivacious city.
Is Pondicherry Good For Nightlife?
Apart from its French architecture and Indian traditions, Pondicherry is also known for its vibrant nightlife. With several lively pubs and bars all over the place, this city is a great place to delve into some late-night adventures.
Do You Get Alcohol In Pondicherry?
Yes, you can get alcohol in Pondicherry, and that too at cheap prices! But, drinking and smoking in public places are strictly prohibited in Pondicherry. So make sure that you drink responsibly and stay away from trouble.
Can We Go To Beach At Night In Pondicherry?
Beaches in Pondicherry are open 24 hours, so feel free to take a stroll on the beach enjoying the sound of the crashing waves. But yes, do be mindful of high tides.
Why Is Pondicherry Famous For Alcohol?
Being a Union Territory, Pondicherry is free of restrictions on the liquor trade. So, you can buy alcohol at cheap rates from wholesale and retail trading government-managed stores.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Pondicherry?
Summers in Pondicherry are harsh, so it’s better to avoid visiting during the months of March to June. And, July to September is the humid monsoon season, and traveling can be a pain. So the ideal time to take a trip to Pondy is between the winter months of October and February.
How Safe Is Pondicherry At Night?
Pondicherry is absolutely safe at night. Though most markets and places close down by 11 pm, you can explore Pondy’s nightlife by visiting some of the best bars and restaurants or by walking down the streets enjoying the natural beauty.
Do We Have Shacks In Pondicherry?
Yes, there are many beaches in Pondicherry that have colorful shacks on the shores. To name a few there is Serenity beach, Rock beach, and Theevu Plage beach among many others.
Is Pondicherry Good For Couples?
Absolutely! Studded with a plethora of alluring beaches, Pondicherry is one of the best places to take a trip with your partner and have many romantic dates by the beach.