Bar 878
Bar 878 operates in Palermo as a Prohibition-era speakeasy with a hidden entrance, serious cocktail program, and an intimate atmosphere. The setup is one of the better-known hidden bars in Buenos Aires, with the cocktail menu rotating seasonally and the bartenders working with proper craft technique. Capacity is small.
Where to stay near Bar 878
Hotels close to Palermo, Buenos Aires.
What to Expect
An established Buenos Aires speakeasy with hidden entrance, proper craft cocktails, and intimate setting.
Intimate Prohibition-era speakeasy with proper cocktail focus.
Jazz, lounge, kept low
Smart casual to dressy
Cocktail enthusiasts, date nights, and travelers seeking serious mixology in Buenos Aires.
Cards, cash (ARS), some USD accepted
Price Range
Cocktails ARS 6,500-11,000, signatures ARS 9,000-14,000, small plates ARS 4,500-8,000
Cocktails ~$5.50-9/~5-8 EUR, signatures ~$7.50-12/~7-11 EUR
Hours
Tue-Sat 8 PM to 3 AM
Insider Tip
Reservations through their website or Instagram. The seasonal menu rotates every few months; ask about new arrivals. The bartenders are willing to make off-menu drinks based on preference.
Full Review
Bar 878 occupies a building in Palermo with the entrance disguised in the standard speakeasy format. The interior commits to Prohibition-era aesthetic: dim lighting, leather and dark wood, a long bar with the bottle wall as the visual centerpiece, and seating arranged for cocktail-focused drinking. Capacity sits around 60-80 patrons.
The cocktail program is the venue's defining feature. The seasonal menu rotates with about 20-25 drinks split between classic preparations with twists, signature originals using Argentine ingredients (yerba mate infusions, malbec reductions, regional fruits), and a few non-alcoholic options. The bartenders work with proper technique and explain choices willingly.
The pricing sits in the upper Palermo cocktail bar range. Cocktails at ARS 6,500-11,000, signatures slightly higher. Small plates run ARS 4,500-8,000 and are designed to extend the drinking session rather than replace dinner.
The crowd is heavily cocktail enthusiasts, date couples, and the older Buenos Aires social set. The atmosphere stays calm and conversation-focused throughout the evening. Music plays at low volume with jazz and lounge dominating. Reservations help on weekends.
The Neighborhood
Palermo is Buenos Aires's main nightlife district, divided into Palermo Soho (the trendy core), Palermo Hollywood (the upscale strip), and surrounding areas. Density is the strength: bars, restaurants, and clubs concentrate within walking distance. Bar 878 sits in Palermo near Frank's Bar, Verne, and the cocktail bar cluster.
Getting There
Metro D line to Ministro Carranza or B line to Dorrego, then a 10-minute walk to most venues. Uber and taxi from Centro or Recoleta cost 1,500-3,500 ARS depending on traffic. Uber from Microcentro takes 20-30 minutes.
Address
Thames 878, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Other Venues in Palermo
Niceto Club
Palermo's flagship electronic and indie venue. Thursday's Club 69 party is legendary. International DJs rotate through on weekends.
Crobar
Multi-level electronic music club drawing top local and international DJs. One of the city's biggest dance floors.
Franks Bar
Hidden speakeasy behind an unmarked door. You'll need a reservation or password to get in. Craft cocktails in a 1920s setting.
Kika Club
Intimate electronic club with a no-phone policy on the dance floor. Attracts a younger, artsy crowd on Friday and Saturday nights.
Uptown Bar
Lively New York-style bar with live music and DJ sets. Good cocktail menu. Popular warm-up spot before heading to the clubs.
Club Armenia
Live cumbia, reggae, and Latin beats in a gritty, no-frills space. Draws a mixed local crowd with cheap drinks and high energy.