Pura Vida

Simple and warm. Pura Vida’s mix of Latin American and European influences offers a soothing, relaxing environment. The omnipresent white fits perfectly with the warmth of the wood fittings and parquet floors. It’s a welcoming space inside a classic Born building, a clean sweep of somewhere you can imagine was previously pretty unappealing. Everything draws you in, including the darkness that dominates the exterior.

Pura Vida boasts three rooms: one with a marble bar (window with a street view included); an inner room with comfy sofas and colourful cushions; and last but not least, the pièce de résistance for when you want a break from the human race, a mezzanine with panoramic views of the bar. An excellent choice for couples wanting to snuggle down. The rococo style armchairs and low coffee tables invite you to stay awhile.

I read that the cocktails were spectacular, so when it comes time to order, my drinking companion and I choose a classic here and in so many other bars. The Bloody Mary is good, but it's probably not the best in the city. On the other hand, the Cucumber Cooler is something else: gin, ginger, cucumber and lemon juice in a wavy glass. Fresh. Sweet. Great for quenching your thirst. The bar's strong suit, apart from the G&Ts, are its fruity and original combinations. So we decided to settle in and hit the food menu as well, and it's full of small plates with Latin American inspiration. You get good value for money on the no-frills recommended dishes such as 'arepas' (stuffed corn-based bread), toast with ceviche and the tequeños (breaded and fried cheese sticks). Maybe this isn't heaven, but it is pure life. And that's good enough for me.