Barke

Barke on Wismarsche Strasse has established itself as one of Rostock's top cocktail bars since opening in 2008. In a stylishly appointed room with dim lighting and dark wood, handcrafted cocktails made from carefully sourced ingredients take center stage. The bartenders know their craft and are happy to offer recommendations if the extensive menu leaves you undecided.

The crowd skews slightly older and more style-conscious than the student pubs nearby, and the atmosphere is correspondingly quieter. Barke is an excellent choice for an intimate conversation, a date, or an evening where quality matters more than quantity. Prices land in the mid-range for a cocktail bar — a crafted drink costs noticeably more than a beer at Zwischenbau, but the quality justifies the premium.

The central location on Wismarsche Strasse makes Barke easy to reach. It pairs well with dinner at one of the surrounding restaurants or a stroll through the city center. On weekends the place fills up late — if you want a seat at the bar, showing up before midnight is advisable.