Bar
The Vault
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The Vault is a clandestine cocktail bar that lives up to its name – you enter through a heavy, unmarked door on Strada Doamnei, descending into a basement that once held a bank vault. The interior is moody and intimate, with exposed brick, low lighting, and a long marble bar. The cocktail menu is creative and seasonal, often incorporating Romanian ingredients like țuică (plum brandy) or local herbs. Bartenders are skilled and happy to craft custom drinks based on your preferences. The vibe is hushed and sophisticated, perfect for a date night or a quiet evening with friends. Despite its hidden nature, it's well-known among locals, so expect a crowd on weekends.
Don't miss
- Try a cocktail featuring țuică or afinată (Romanian blueberry liqueur) for a local twist.
- Snap a photo of the massive vault door – it's the bar's signature photo op.
- Ask the bartender for an off-menu creation – they love to improvise.
- Sit in one of the repurposed safe deposit box booths for a unique experience.
- Visit on a weekday for a more relaxed, intimate atmosphere.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit The Vault
You can visit on your own (No entry fee, but expect a cover charge on weekends or for special events. Book a table online to avoid waiting). A tour adds transport and a guide, or combines nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inExplore Bucharest Step by Step With A Local Guide4.9★ · 26 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$16 per personSee dates →
Best full dayBucharest to Dracula Castle, Peles Castle and Brasov Guided Tour4.5★ · 3,235 travelers~12 hoursFree cancellationFrom$23 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleBucharest Tuk Tuk city tour5★ · 260 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$58 per personSee dates →Getting there
Know before you go
- The door is unmarked – look for a small brass plaque or a bouncer outside.
- Cocktails are premium-priced for Bucharest; expect around 40–60 lei per drink.
- Flash photography is discouraged to maintain the mood.
- Music is low and jazzy – not a place for loud conversations.
A bit of history
The space was originally a bank vault from the early 1900s, later abandoned before being converted into a bar in the 2010s. The owners preserved the original vault door and safe deposit boxes, which now serve as decorative elements and even seating nooks.
Common questions
Is there a dress code?
Smart casual is recommended; no sportswear or flip-flops.
Do they serve food?
Only light snacks like olives or nuts – it's primarily a cocktail bar.
Can I make a reservation?
Yes, it's highly recommended, especially for groups. Book via their website or social media.
Is it hard to find?
A bit – look for the address and a small sign or queue. It's next to a pizza place.
Do they have non-alcoholic options?
Yes, they offer mocktails and non-alcoholic spirits.
Is it cash only?
Cards are accepted, but cash is handy for tips.
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