With a strong focus on gastronomy and fine dining, Vilnius, Lithuania’s capital, has recently become a hotspot for traveling foodies and adventurous locals. Unexpectedly, the city boasts a significant number of wine bars, ranging from trendy natural wine and sharing plates spots to classic, upscale establishments. Each offers a unique experience suitable for various occasions. So, prepare to pop open some bottles and explore the hidden gems in the historic streets of Vilnius!
Point a finger at any wine-geek and seasoned wine-lover in Vilnius, and they will know – Summer is where the magic happens when it comes to wine. Supervised by Narimantas Miežys, Lithuanian and Baltic sommelier champion, Lithuanian Sommelier School lecturer, and one of the most prominent wine experts in Lithuania, Somm the Wine Bar is a home to many up-and-coming Lithuanian sommeliers. So, it goes without saying that one can expect top-class service here, plus all the tricks you see in the movies – sabrage, wine decanting with a candle, opening a bottle with heated port tongs, etc.
On top of that, their extensive wine lists numerous wines by the glass, and Coravin options have earned them international recognition and a loyal following. Definitely a place to impress a date, business partners, or to treat yourself.
A minimalist wine bar that is more classic than trendy, yet has a strong focus on eco, biodynamic, and natural wines. With wine list crafted by the well-known sommelier Simonas Laukaitis, Taurės proves that natural wines can be as clean and appealing to everyone's taste as any other wine. Located in the picturesque courtyard of Senatorių Pasažas, with its local shops and restaurants, a stop in Taurės can be a great place for an aperitif before dinner or a glass after.
The impressive Asian-inspired restaurant Heji has opened in Lithuania only recently but has already earned many mentions in local and international guides. For those who don't want to commit to a full dinner, Heji invites you to sit down in his spectacular champagne bar and enjoy a huge selection of wines and nibbles. More than just a wine menu, a wine bible, was created by the famous Lithuanian sommelier Martynas Pravilonis, who has won numerous titles in competitions, including the title of the 4th best sommelier in the world. It consists of tens if not hundreds of titles – from big and prominent champagne houses and winemakers, to cherry-picked growers and rare finds. A treat for both the eyes and taste buds.
Located in a hidden courtyard near the Town Hall of Vilnius, this place is loved by the hip youth. With graffiti-painted walls and a name that means Fault (as in a faulty wine), this place is not afraid of a cloudy wine glass! Affordable wines by the glass, beers for those who want a to hit a break on wine, and delicious snacks to accompany it all. One day it might look more like a sports bar with a football match playing at full volume, while another day it will host a natural wine tasting or a live music jam. How hip can you go? They can go hipper!
Opened by two young women passionate about all things natural, Vištidė means hen-coop. No wonder it is located outside a small town square marked by a giant egg statue in the hip part of Vilnius, leading towards the railway station. Co-owner Emilija spreads her knowledge about natural wines, while Italy-born Allesia is in charge of bringing Italian delicacies from artisan producers in her home country. You can enjoy a glass with some snacks in a cozy outdoor area and listed to great stories told by the owners. It gets lively and busy – just like in a real hen-coop!
Mediterranean cuisine, natural wines, and great cocktails can be found in this compact wine bar located in the old town of Vilnius. Always offering something new by the glass, it stocks both affordable natural wines and biodynamic champagnes from prestigious growers. This place was one of the first in Vilnius to open with a strong focus on naturality and sharing plates concept. Be sure to book a table; it gets busy!
One of the newest additions to the natural wines and sharing plates scene in Vilnius, this spot is located in the historic building on Mykolas Street and can be proud of its minimalistic interior. The place quickly became vibrant and busy with curious foodies. Grab a glass on your walk through the Vilnius old town, or sit for hours and enjoy small plates and a whole bottle – the relaxed atmosphere and convenient location are great for both!
Tucked away in the inner yard of an old town hotel, this secret wine garden is easy to miss in summer. But it shall not be skipped! It offers a few French-style nibbles and approachable French wine options focused on Loire region. The bar's welcoming service and location make it a unique place to stop by for a glass or enjoy long conversations with friends. Didn't get a table? Don't worry – a picnic on your lawn is always an option during the warm season!
A place you won't discover on social media or via trending reels (because it was trendy even before social media got cool!) - Burbulio Vyninė. It is respected and visited by locals and regulars for its fantastic service and old-school local Italian bar vibe. There aren't many places to enjoy a nice bottle of Franciacorta in Vilnius, but this is definitely one of them! Also they always whip-up something delicious to enjoy alongside your glass – a piece of Italian cheese, a slice of pancetta or even an authentic pasta. Just trust the staff and enjoy!
Drinking in a wine shop can be cozy too. Trust the knowledgeable staff and enjoy the ever-changing wines by the glass and many natural wine options to choose from the wine shelves. Occasional collaborations with restaurants, chefs, and wine experts keeps this place vibrant despite being outside the main tourist area.
La Boheme's impressive interior with vaulted ceiling attracts romantic couples, private parties, and those looking for a glass of wine before or after a film at the arthouse cinema above it. It's one of the first wine bars in Vilnius and often a great starting point for wine enthusiasts.
Bubbles is known for its great party vibe and superb selection of… bubbles (obviously!). It's a cozy compact wine bar in the middle of the party area of Vilnius where you can casually enjoy a bottle of Cristal on a wooden stool table or try various cavas, crémants, or natural sparkling wines with a charcuterie plate. Classic cocktails are also available on the chalkboard menu and those tired of wines are not judged for ordering a pint of Guinness. Open late!
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