Editorial
Medellín bars are El Poblado nightlife and Colombian cocktail revival — the 10 below show why.
La Octava is a two-floor rock bar in El Poblado, with beers and classic rock upstairs and live music downstairs. The basement dance floor runs late. Best for a rock-led night out.
Patrick's Irish Pub is Medellin's largest sports bar, two floors on Parque Lleras packed for NFL Sundays. Screens run sport all week beside a pub kitchen. Best for watching American leagues in El Poblado.
Son Havana is a Laureles salsa institution with live bands and a Cuban theme near La 70. Dancers of all levels fill the floor most nights. Best for live salsa in Medellin.
The 10 above are where Medellín actually drinks — mezcal temples, Pisco Sour institutions, cachaça cellars, and modern cocktail rooms.
West Coast Editor — Los Angeles to Mexico City. Casual luxury, never aspirational.