Ziemelis
Ziemelis occupies a corner spot on Miera iela that functions as the neighborhood's default meeting point. The bar takes its name from the Latvian word for 'north,' and the drinks list leans into the Nordic and Baltic spirit world. Gin dominates the cocktail menu, with a selection of Latvian, Lithuanian, and Scandinavian gins that you won't find in most European bars. The food is simple: open-faced sandwiches, cheese plates, and bar snacks that pair with drinks without requiring a kitchen brigade. The interior is clean Scandinavian design with light wood, simple furniture, and enough plants to soften the edges. The corner location means windows on two sides, giving the space natural light during the long summer evenings and a fishbowl quality that draws people in from the street. The crowd is mixed: young professionals, neighborhood regulars who stop in after work, and visitors who spotted the place while walking Miera iela. Capacity is around 40 inside, with a few outdoor tables in summer.
What to Expect
A bright, clean corner bar with a Scandinavian feel. The atmosphere is welcoming and conversation-friendly. Drinks arrive well-made and on time. The kind of bar where one drink turns into three because you're comfortable.
Warm, bright, and neighborly. A bar that feels like it belongs on its corner.
Nordic indie, folk, and downtempo playlists. Background level, never intrusive.
Casual smart. Clean and put-together without any effort. The Nordic influence extends to the dress sense of the regular crowd.
After-work drinks, gin enthusiasts, and anyone who wants a comfortable neighborhood bar as a starting point for a Miera iela evening.
Cards and cash accepted. EUR only.
Price Range
Cocktails 7-10 EUR, beer 3-4.50 EUR, wine 5-7 EUR, snacks 4-7 EUR
Cocktails ~$8-11, beer ~$3-5, wine ~$5-8
Hours
Mon-Thu 16:00-23:00, Fri-Sat 14:00-01:00, Sun 14:00-22:00
Insider Tip
Start with the gin and tonic flight if you like gin; they offer a tasting of three different Baltic gins. The corner window tables are the best seats. Come on a Friday after work to catch the local crowd.
Full Review
Ziemelis is the kind of bar that every good bar street needs: a reliable, comfortable spot that works for any occasion. The corner location on Miera iela gives it visibility and natural light, and the interior makes the most of both. Light wood, clean lines, and plants create a space that feels more Copenhagen than post-Soviet.
The gin focus is genuine rather than trendy. The bar carries gins from Latvian distillers that most visitors won't have encountered, alongside Lithuanian and Scandinavian options. The gin and tonic flight is a smart way to sample the range, with each pour paired with a different tonic and garnish. Beyond gin, the cocktail menu is short but well-executed, with seasonal adjustments that keep regulars interested.
The food won't replace dinner, but the open-faced sandwiches are satisfying and well-priced. Dark rye bread with smoked fish or cheese from Latvian producers pairs naturally with the drinks. The kitchen keeps things simple and doesn't overreach.
Ziemelis functions best as a starting point. The after-work crowd fills the bar from 5 PM on Fridays, creating a social buzz that carries into the evening. By 9 PM, some people have moved on to other Miera iela spots while new arrivals replace them. The corner location makes it easy to watch the street from inside, deciding where to head next. On quieter weeknights, it's a calm spot for a drink and a book, which says something about the bar's range.
The Neighborhood
Ziemelis sits on a visible corner of Miera iela, making it a natural entry point for the street's bar scene. Aleponija, Taka, and Kanepes Kulturas centrs are all within walking distance. The surrounding blocks have grocery stores, bakeries, and casual restaurants for pre-drinking food.
Getting There
Corner of Miera iela in the Quiet Centre. A 15-minute walk from Old Town or a quick Bolt ride. The corner position makes it easy to spot from the street.
Other Venues in Miera iela
Kanepes Kulturas centrs
Cultural center and bar in a converted wooden house. Hosts DJ nights, art exhibitions, film screenings, and eclectic events. The backyard garden is legendary in summer.
Taka
Small craft cocktail bar on Miera iela with a rotating seasonal menu and a loyal local following. Dark, intimate interior with about 30 seats.
Chomsky
Neighborhood bar with a political edge, named after the linguist. Cheap beer, vinyl DJs on weekends, and a crowd that leans young and creative.
Aleponija
Craft beer bar specializing in Latvian and Baltic microbreweries. Rotating tap list of 12-plus beers and a knowledgeable staff.
Autentika
Wine and cocktail lounge with an art gallery aesthetic. Curated natural wine selection and small plates in a calm, stylish setting.
Aristids
Live music bar and cultural space hosting jazz, folk, and experimental acts. Small stage, great acoustics, and a crowd that comes for the music.