Le Select

In the heart of the island's capital, Gustavia, lies a legendary spot that has become a true symbol of Saint Barthélemy. Bar Le Select is more than just a place to grab a drink; it is a living history and the oldest bar on the island, having opened its doors back in 1949.

Le Select. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

Located on the charming Rue de la France, this bar has preserved its original, authentic atmosphere. With an open terrace facing the street, it attracts a remarkably diverse crowd—from sailors off their yachts to world-class celebrities—creating a unique cosmopolitan mix.

Visitors love Le Select for its laid-back vibe, affordable prices, and the chance to experience the true spirit of the Caribbean. It's the perfect place to escape the island's high-end glitz and enjoy the simplicity of conversation over a glass of classic ti-punch.

Finding this historic bar in the center of the capital is easy. Le Select is conveniently located on one of the city's main pedestrian streets, drawing in passersby with its open-air terrace.

When you stop by Le Select, be sure to grab a table on the open terrace. It’s the best spot in town for people-watching, where locals and visitors from all over the world sit side by side. The menu offers an excellent selection of Caribbean drinks—try the famous ti-punch or a cold beer in a relaxed setting.

In addition to drinks, the bar is famous for its simple but satisfying fast-food-style menu. The local cheeseburgers are incredibly popular and perfect for a quick bite between city strolls. In the evenings, live musicians often perform, filling the air with reggae or acoustic rock, making the atmosphere even more laid-back and festive.

The bar is located in the very heart of town on Rue de la France. Thanks to the capital's compact size, it is very easy to reach on foot from almost anywhere in the harbor area or the main shopping districts.

If you are coming from Gustaf III Airport, a taxi ride will take no more than 5–10 minutes. For those who have rented a car, keep in mind that parking in central Gustavia can be difficult, especially during high season. It is often most convenient to leave your car in a municipal parking lot and walk to the establishment.

The story of this establishment began on November 11, 1949, and since then, Le Select has remained virtually unchanged. Over more than 70 years of operation, it has become a true cultural institution, witnessing the island's transformation from a humble port into an elite global resort.

Inside the bar, you’ll find plenty of memorabilia, including a framed letter from the famous David Rockefeller. The bar is closely tied to the history of the founding family and symbolizes the era of the "old" Caribbean, maintaining its simplicity and sincere hospitality.

Interestingly, the bar was named after the famous Parisian café Le Select in Montparnasse. In the context of Gustavia’s history—which was once a Swedish colony before returning to French control—this spot serves as a bridge between the city's past and present.

You usually only need 1 to 2 hours to visit this iconic spot. This is plenty of time to enjoy a refreshing cocktail, have a bite to eat, and soak in the legendary atmosphere of the island's oldest bar.

If you happen to catch a live music performance or decide to spend the evening chatting with travelers from around the world, time can fly by. Le Select is a place to relax without the rush, where you can simply enjoy the moment.

The bar is usually open to guests from Monday to Saturday. On weekdays, it operates from 10:00 AM to 12:30 AM, and on Fridays and Saturdays until 1:00 AM. Please note that Sunday is a day off.

As schedules can vary depending on the season, we recommend checking the official website or asking on-site upon arrival for current hours.

Exploring the surroundings of this legendary bar can significantly enrich your trip. Nearby, you'll find both historic forts and modern culinary spots, creating a unique contrast between the old and new parts of town.