Welcome to my guide on the best hipster places in Yerevan, where your soul will feel included and your mind will be stimulated in the most pleasant way. Whether you’re a Yerevan resident or a traveler, these spots are sure to impress with their unique atmosphere and trendy vibes. From old but gold places that have been around for quite a long time, to newly opened spots that are quickly making a name for themselves. Join me as I take you on a journey through the coolest hipster-approved hangouts in Yerevan.
You can expect to find a diverse range of options whether you’re looking for live music, art exhibitions, fashion shows or crafts workshops, you’ll find it all here. So, get ready to explore and if you have some of your own tips, let me know on Instagram or Twitter, with #ArmeniaTravelTips.
These are my top pick of the best hipster places in Yerevan:
- The Kond House
- A1 Art Space
- Simona
- Forty44
- Mirzoyan Library
- Esthetic Joys Embassy
- Hummus Kimchi
- Poligraf
- Calumet Ethnic Lounge Bar
- Art Kvartal
The Kond House
Step into The Kond House, located in one of Yerevan’s oldest districts, and you’ll find one of the most well known hipster places in Yerevan. A place that’s perfect to enjoy live music and mingle with the locals. Classic jazz creates the perfect vibe for a night out, with an entrance fee of just $8 per person.
The interior is old-fashioned as it should be at a place with such a chill vibe. The creaky floorboards and ancient furniture create a warm, welcoming feel. You’ll feel like you’re at a house party with new friends. In fact, it is a house that seems to have consisted of separate apartments in the past, which they converted into this venue. That really gives The Kond House (see on the map) a very unique place in my heart.
When you’re ready to take the party up a notch, head up to the rooftop bar at The Kond House, play some table football or cool off with a dip in the pool.
A1 Art Space
Looking for a place where you can discover modern Armenian art and design? A1 Art Space is the perfect spot for you! This innovative space serves as both an exhibition hall and a showroom for modern Armenian designers and artists. But that’s not all – A1 Art Space (map) also houses a cozy art cafe where you can enjoy a hot cup of coffee while browsing the latest exhibits.
The space is versatile and hosts a range of events, from cultural and educational programs to film screenings and fashion shows, so here you’re sure to find something that sparks your interest. I really love how inspiring, and at the same time minimalistic this space feels. It attracts a very creative crowd of people who often come here to work or network with other like-minded folk. If you have an eye for the arts, don’t miss it. After all, what else makes a proper hipster hotspot than artsy vibes and chill people?
Simona
Simona is the perfect spot for those looking for an unforgettable experience that combines great music and amazing cocktails. You won’t be disappointed with their series of music sessions called “Simona Groove Session”. They feature some of the best resident artists in town, including the outstanding jazz ambassador, Hayk Harutyunyan.
What makes Simona (map) truly special on the map of hipster places in Yerevan is its commitment to vinyl culture. They run vinyl-only days on Thursdays, giving you the chance to purchase some rare records. The unique talents that Simona hosts, like FRANTIC, who selects hard-to-find tracks, are sure to impress even the most discerning music fans. And the best part? Even if you can’t make it to the bar, you can still enjoy Simona’s music sessions, as they are available online.
Forty 44
If you’re looking for a cool spot where artists and craft makers showcase their work and talent, look no further than Forty 44! This place is a must-visit if you want to enjoy special cocktails, delicious food, and top-notch entertainment. The place is filled with eye-catching decorations, including unique artsy items displayed on bare walls. And, a colorful Armenian rug just adds an ethnic touch to the cozy hipster ambiance.
At Forty 44 (map), you can experience everything from expos and exhibitions to live music performances. Talented artists like the Lebanese Armenian Miran Gurunian, whose music I personally love, often perform here. The entrance is usually free, or just $8 per ticket. So, grab your friends and head down to Forty 44 for a fun and memorable night out!
Mirzoyan Library
Mirzoyan Library is not exactly what it sounds like! I was surprised myself when I discovered it. And I think this was the first venue where as soon as I saw it I thought “ok, this is exactly like the hipster places I know from Europe”. Situated in the heart of Yerevan (map), it is the perfect place for Armenia’s creative circles to gather. Many come here to enjoy over 600 titles of the largest photographic collection in the Caucasus. Its founder, Karen Mirzoyan, has created a unique space that now houses not only the library itself, but a lot more. Here you will find several exhibition and workshop areas, a cafe, a bar, and even a very cool local souvenir shop. But don’t expect the typical magnets and cross-stones here – that kind of cookie-cutter stuff won’t fit the concept here at all.
This spot offers homemade snacks, a selection of hot drinks, and handcrafted cocktails that will satisfy any taste buds. And if you’re looking to expand your creativity, join one of the many photography classes or film screenings hosted here. As someone who loves photography, I can’t get enough of this amazing spot! Just look at this photo from their cafe’s social media pages. 🙂
Esthetic Joys Embassy
Esthetic Joys Embassy (EJE), a two-story mansion with a lovely garden that offers a range of activities for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re interested in playing chess, making handmade jewelry, attending music lectures, or just enjoying a delicious meal and a cocktail, Esthetic Joys Embassy (map) has you covered. The interior of this hipster haven is a burst of bright colors with pink walls, exquisite lamps, flowers, and art that create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
The menu is frequently updated, so you can always try something new, and they have cool DJs that provide a great atmosphere. Plus, it’s a pet-friendly spot, so you can bring your furry friends along for the fun. And if you need a quiet place to work, the mansion also offers a comfortable workspace.
Hummus Kimchi
Looking for a hip and trendy spot with jimmy snacks and good vibes in the center of Yerevan? Look no further than Hummus Kimchi! Run by Russian immigrants, this cozy little place offers a unique fusion of Korean and Israeli cuisine that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Hummus Kimchi (map) has got you covered with their retro game console, and if you’re feeling competitive, don’t miss their Mortal Kombat tournaments! And don’t forget to try their interesting drink specials, like the refreshing Korean soju, for example. Even better, their simple and affordable menu means you can indulge without breaking the bank. 🙂 And if you’re a pet lover, you’ll be happy to know that this place is pet-friendly too!
Poligraf
Poligraf is a truly unique and captivating place that is evident even from their Instagram posts’ carefully crafted design. 🙂 One thing I personally really appreciate is that purchasing tickets via their website is a breeze. With prices averaging between 8 to 13 USD, Poligraf offers great value for a night of techno music and dancing in a relatively compact, yet incredibly cool and dark ambiance.
The atmosphere at Poligraf (map) is both safe and inviting, providing a haven for techno music lovers to dance and have a great time. The club’s strict face control ensures a vibrant and diverse crowd. It creates a dynamic and inclusive environment where everyone can express themselves freely.
I know it sounds contradictory when I put together words like ‘face control’ and ‘inclusive’ in one sentence. But you need to take into account the generally more conservative leaning attitude of Armenians overall. So, here the above mentioned selection process is really designed to prevent people who don’t know what they’re getting into from entering. For their own good, I’d add. 🙂
If you ask me, Poligraf is probably the most judgment-free space in the entire Armenia. It’s true that some parties organized there might seem a bit too crazy for some, but I’m sure there is something for everyone there. So, check out their program before visiting, and enjoy the vibes.
Calumet Ethnic Lounge Bar
Calumet is an underground cocktail bar, offering a rich and authentic atmosphere. A unique touch of the East is created by its vibrant colors and decorations. I’d dare to say Calumet was probably a prime example of a hipster place in Yerevan before we all knew what the word hipster actually meant. 🙂 It’s a really old and beloved venued.
From 4 PM until late into the night, you can come and chill while indulging in their unique kitchen offerings. The menu includes delicious fresh-baked pizzas, light snacks, sandwiches, and a wide range of cocktails, beers, and drinks.
Adding to the allure, Calumet hosts local and international musical performances several times a month. They feature a diverse range of genres such as Traditional, Experimental, Fusion, and Spiritual World Folk Music. While there is usually no entrance fee these days, please note that seating is limited. Also, the spot is super popular among local foreigners and diaspora Armenians. So, typically you can easily find other English-speaking people here.
Art Kvartal – my favourite hipster place in Yerevan
And at the end, here is my personal favourite hipster hotspot. Are you on the lookout for a warm and welcoming artistic hub at the heart of Yerevan? Art Kvartal is the answer! This charming establishment houses a gallery, vintage clothing store, art school and installation artworks under one roof. There is also a nice cafe at the ground floor. Just take a seat, relax and absorb all the artistic stimuli.
This art space keeps developing and growing. Every time I visit, there is something new at Art Kvartal. Once there was a massive concert in their backyard. Last time I caught a cool NFT exhibition. It’s full of inspiration all the time cause they embrace experimental art. And its not surprising that it attracts a diverse hipster crowd from around Yerevan and beyond.
At Art Kvartal (map), you can meet some of the friendliest locals, soak in the latest contemporary art exhibitions, or even join in on interactive events and activities. And don’t forget to say hello to founder Ani Chopuryan’s adorable dog! With an artsy name Dali, the doggo adds a playful touch to this creative haven. 🙂
Wrapping up
I hope you had a great time discovering these hip and trendy spots in Yerevan. But the list doesn’t end here! Do you know any other cool and quirky hangouts? Share your favorites — simply tweet or post on Instagram using the hashtag #ArmeniaTravelTips and let’s keep the hipster spirit alive!
If you’re looking for more bar options in Yerevan, don’t forget to check out my post on the best bars in town. You’ll get to explore even more of Yerevan’s vibrant nightlife scene, and I’m sure you’ll enjoy reading it just as much!
Featured image credit: Photo by charlesdeluvio on Unsplash (edited)
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