One of the most ambitious hotel projects in Stockholm during the last few years, Bank Hotel, had just opened during my recent visit in the Swedish capital - and up among the eaves is Le Hibou. With self-acclaimed “specially composed cocktails” the bar actually promises more than it delivers - a few of the signature cocktails are plain classics without even a twist, while others unfortunately lack the panache and sting needed in a cocktail bar with ambitions. Having said this though - the place is definitely worth a visit; the decor is intended to bring the thoughts to someone upscale Parisian apartment, and add to that views over Stockholm from above, with the renaissance palatial Nordic Museum as one of the focal points - these views forgive a lot of other shortcomings!
Take the elevator up to the penthouse, come early (they don’t take bookings) and if you manage to go there before the Nordic weather makes it unbearable - sit outside and enjoy the sunset.
Atmosphere: 5/8
It’s a rather small bar with outdoor terraces perfect for summer sunsets - more focus on a lounge feeling with a well thought out playlist would gain more points.
Cocktails: 6/8
Well made classics but the inventiveness and creativity is nowhere to be seen - albeit a full bar with guests only ordering beer or white wine (Swedish SOP during summer, it seems), but more cocktail focus would be welcome.
Bartenders: 5/8
Apparently a crew handpicked for the task, but whether it’s lack of challenging customers or lack of ambitions I’ll leave untold, but these guys need to step it up a notch.
Ice: 6/8
Clear ice cubes with the right size, but as mentioned above the clientele don’t make it worth keeping quality ice in a place like this - yet.
Arsenalsgatan 6
111 47 Stockholm
Sweden