Hidden Gems: Best Vibe & Atmosphere
Overview: This article includes recommendations for establishments with an interesting vibe and atmosphere that contributed to a memorable experience while we were traveling.
Disclaimer
This is not a static article. As we explore new places, more recommended establishments will be added and existing ones may be changed. We are not affiliated with any of the following establishments.
Aspects we look for
Vibe: how the place feels, the emotional sense and the ambiance
Atmosphere: how the place is designed/decorated
Stateside (US)
Denver, Colorado, US
Hudson Hill
Cocktail bar, upscale vibe
Plant-filled space with low couches
Located in the Capitol Hill neighborhood
The Thin Man
Crowded and lively atmosphere, place is bumping
Funky decor, patio and music downstairs
Located in the Uptown neighborhood
Milk Bar
Lively nightclub with electronic music and fire pits
Many themed rooms including a goth room, arcade, 80s room, etc.
Seattle, Washington, US
Underbelly
Visited in December
Basement venue located in the Seattle Underground which is a network of underground passageways and basements in the Pioneer Square neighborhood
Speakeasy vibe
Dreamland
Visited in December
Plant-filled space with a disco ball hallway (also has mirrors, amazing for photos)
Located in the Fremont neighborhood
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
The Dandelion Pub
Authentic British cuisine
Luxury upscale and charming pub vibe
Idiosyncratic seating areas, rooms and nooks
Each room is unique and decorated differently
Brick fireplace and a Victorian-style dining room
Located in the Rittenhouse neighborhood
Abroad
Berlin, Germany
Eschschloraque
Visited in December
Hidden bar with live music, often vinyl
Cash only, no photos inside or outside
Passageways leading to an overgrown courtyard with alcoves and street art
Lighting is very low-lit and there is a lot of indoor smoking but the vibe is very cool and underground
Schokoladen
Visited in December
A great place to dance with locals
Google calls it a cultural center but it’s a tiny bar with a small dance floor and some bleachers
Music was eclectic, often vinyl and spanning over several decades
A lot of indoor smoking but the vibe is very lively, eclectic and friendly as long as you’re not too loud
Copenhagen, Denmark
Bastard Cafe
Visited in December
Place gets packed in the winter
Lively hangout with over 4000 board games
Quintessential hygge vibe, perfect for cold winter days
Hidden gem for friends and social life in Copenhagen
Malmo, Sweden
Malmö Saluhall
Very modern and cool spot with friendly locals
Supposedly has incredible pizza (I did not hear this until we left)
Food hall serving all sorts of cuisines in a repurposed dockside industrial space
Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
El Asturias - sadly permanently closed!
Jorge the owner is very friendly, personable and informative
Amazing Dominican food with a twist of Northern Spain
Address: C. El Dorado, Punta Cana 23000, Dominican Republic
Tripadvisor link
San Carlos, Sonora, Mexico
Colectivo Buena Onda
Dog cafe and community eatery that serves delicious coffee, breakfast and brunch that is frequented by locals
Eclectic and friendly vibe; they also sell adorable locally crafted goods that are high-quality yet inexpensive
Only get the bottled water, if they are out of bottled water don’t get tap
Instagram link @colectivobuenaonda - community
Instagram link @buenaondabakery.coffee - breakfast & brunch
Guaymas, Sonora, Mexico
Astros Pastelería & Café
Very affordable and delicious
Extensive menu despite being just a cake shop
Amazing breakfast especially chilaquiles
Very friendly ladies running the shop who may help you with your Spanish when ordering