Like the scales of the rainbow fish, the wall mosaic behind the bar shimmers in blue, green and purple. But only if the light falls favorably on the small stones or you study them for too long. There is a subtle nod in the decor to the river Isarbar, which gives it its name, in the Sofitel Bayerpost hotel. Like the pale green silk curtains that hang in wavy ruffles in front of the high arched windows and are supposed to be reminiscent of a riverbed. With a lot of imagination they would probably do that if the view of the main station and Bayerstrasse would be more idyllic.
The bar and its terrace are right next to the main entrance to the five-star hotel, which opened in 2010. As soon as you enter the lobby, it becomes clear that you will leave with a much lighter wallet. Past luxury cars parked around a fountain, continue through the stylish entrance hall and take one last turn at the piano, where live jazz is sometimes played. Otherwise, calm hotel bar jazz plays in the background, which switches to electronic music as the evening progresses.
The ambience is classically elegant. Dim, warm light turns the stone on the walls and ceiling golden brown, including dark brown leather upholstery on small, low round tables. There is also a smooth, reddish-brown wooden counter that runs lengthways through the entire room and practically hugs the spirits wall with its curved ends. It is well stocked, with a particularly large selection of international whiskey and gin.
The bar staff are friendly and professional. For the first round you are greeted with a nibble of salted almonds, pretzels and spicy cashews. Only if the bar suddenly fills up, which can happen at any time in a conference hotel like this with many groups, do you have to be a little patient when ordering more. It’s not that bad – meanwhile you can easily strike up a conversation with hotel guests from all over the world at the bar counter with close seating. Some are there for work, know each other from previous business trips and spend their evenings together in the Isarbar – an atmosphere almost like an international hostel, only with luxury drinks instead of cheap beer.
Because as convincing as the bar menu may be, its prices are just as exorbitant. Starting with a half Augustiner for 7.70 euros, a large bottle of water for 12.50 euros, and cocktails between 16 and 18 euros. You also have to shell out an average of 30 euros for a bar snack from the menu, including salad, pasta, burgers and steak.
There are unusual recipes on the cocktail menu that are skilfully implemented. Like the honey-colored “Kendo Champion” (18 euros) from the signature menu with Japanese whiskey, Oloroso sherry, roasted rice and sesame oil. Its roasted and smoky aromas fill the nose, while the sesame oil leaves an almost caramel note on the tongue, strong and soft at the same time.
The Isarbar even spices up its “Espresso Martini” (18 euros) from the classic menu with orange liqueur. For other classics such as “Whisky Sour”, “Old Fashioned” or “Cosmopolitan” (16 euros each) she sticks to the tried and tested basic recipes. There is also a special menu with monthly changing cocktails, which currently offers winter creations, such as the sweet “Rumbullion” made from rum, pear, apple, caramel syrup and cinnamon (16 euros).
IsarbarBayerstraße 12, 80335 Munich, telephone: 089/599482963, opening hours: Sunday to Thursday 9 a.m. to midnight, Friday and Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 a.m.