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An alchemy-themed den offering 30 different “elixirs” created by head bartender and magician Christophe Rossi, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/escamoteurbar/?DestinAsian">L’Escamoteur</a> faces the southern stretch of Kiyamachi-dori, a cherry tree–lined street running along the Takase Canal. (Look out for a brick building with a penny-farthing silhouette on the door.) As you ascend the illuminated stairs, the eclectic decor is sure to catch your attention: a vintage leather couch hung from the ceiling, an antique birdcage holding a rare bottle of absinthe above the bar, and a corner bookcase that hints at a secret room. Amicable top-hatted mixologists and attendants add to the bohemian Moulin Rouge feel. However, the quirky 19th-century European vibe is only half the story. Rossi’s cocktails are among the best in <a href="https://destinasian.com/category/japan/kyoto-travel-guide">Kyoto</a>: must-orders include the smooth and aromatic Shiso Sour, the creative take on a Charlie Chaplin, and what many patrons consider the tastiest Bloody Mary that has ever passed their lips. One word of advice—get there early as L’Escamoteur’s reputation is already out of the bag. —Bryan Eastlake
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/escamoteurbar/?DestinAsian" target="_blank" rel="noopener">instagram.com/escamoteurbar/</a> 
+81 75 708 8511 
<a href="https://goo.gl/maps/pYz4YKwH9kvkk5Nk9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">138-9 Saitocho, Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan</a>

Christophe Rossi, the head bartender at L’Escamoteur in Kyoto.

L’Escamoteur: Magic Elixir