Tirana has a genuinely lively café and bar scene, concentrated in the Blloku district. Coffee culture is central to daily life here — espresso is strong and cheap, and pavement cafés fill up at all hours. Raki, Albania's grape-based spirit, is the local drink of choice.
Take Five, opposite the US Embassy, is a jazz club with regular live music and a good atmosphere. Buda Bar in the city centre is a more relaxed cocktail bar with an oriental-themed interior. Living Room in Blloku is a popular late-night option with a mixed crowd and a roof terrace. For a neighbourhood café experience, Era doubles as a late-night bar and eating spot.