Bari Chiringuito Review: Delicious Coffee With A Cool View

Reviewing fun places to enjoy my first cup of espresso of the day might be my new mission because El Chiringuito in Bari is a no-frills bar with style to burn.

One of the most beautiful things about Italy is how one is able to find a cup of espresso almost anywhere. I have seen either a barista or a vending machine in museums, parks, archaeological exhibits and even on a tour bus. If you need a jolt, an opportunity to have one is only steps away.

On a recent trip to Bari, I was on an early morning walk along the sea, and on a pier covered with fishing boats was a small-ish shack of a bar that was catering to the local fishermen. Sometimes coffee, but also beer and 8:00AM were the beverages of choice. The “caffè” is called El Chiringuito.

Admittedly, this name seemed a touch out of place as it was Spanish, so I took a moment to see if it translated, and it did: “A chiringuito is a small, casual bar or restaurant, usually located on the beach. Chiringuitos are a key part of Spanish beach culture and are popular with both locals and tourists.”

There isn’t any beach around this pier, but the description made the restaurant seem perfectly situated. According to them (paraphrased a touch): 

“Since 1950, for the people of Bari we have been a place of coming together, reggae music, drinks and street food which are the backdrop to one of the most beautiful views of the city.”

Atmosphere And Design

The vibe of the bar is extremely casual. In the morning it is full of fishermen returning from their adventures on the seas, and in the evening the ambiance is reggae music and the odd smoke. It has the feel of a real beach shack, but with an odd permanence which might be due to its longevity.

There are no real seating options. Since you aren’t coming here for a meal, you can enjoy yourself on the nearby benches that line the coast, or you can try to get comfortable on the mini-piers that jut out to help the small boats.

The real draw here is the location. Only a few steps from the end of the popular Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, and at the end of an active pier in the harbour. The views are spectacular and even though there is no beach, you won’t mind basically standing outside and enjoying your drink.

Menu Highlights

There aren’t many highlights on the menu. The foods include: focaccia, panino, panzerotto, pizza rustica and a couple other dishes that can be served at room temperature. I would be surprised if they even had anything more than a microwave, but that isn’t really the reason to come here.

They do offer all your favorite espresso drinks, including decaf, and some tea. In a setting like this, my preference was for an espresso because milk just didn’t seem right. They also offered a full selection of beers, soda, cocktails and water.

Practical Information For Tourists

Above all else, this is a bar and you can expect to order your coffee or drink as you would in any other restaurant. You don’t have to worry about whether to go to the bar or Cassa (cashier) first because it is the same person.

My goal for this trip was to come early in the morning. I hoped to see the fishermen returning, but it was either not the season or I was too late. In the evening, it can get pretty crowded, but it is still a great place to hang out before or after dinner.

They are closed on Sundays, but are open 8:00AM until Midnight every other day. You can find them at: Molo S. Nicola, 70121 Bari BA, Italy

Navigating The Visit

Hopefully these quick pointers will make your visit even easier:

• Is It Accessible? – Once you reach the waterfront, it is easy to find. It is across the street from the end of the popular Corso Vittorio Emanuele II and next to Teatro Margherita.
• Does It Have Tourist or Local Appeal? – I would have to say it appeals to both. There are no shortages of locals, but the uniqueness is a “must” for visitors to Bari.
• Language Help: Don’t count on it. Keep it simple, like: “prendo un caffè, per favore.”

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