Martyn’s Bar

I’m biased. I met my current girlfriend and the mother of my two daughters at Martyn’s Bar in the spring of 2011, so the thought of the bar awakes great memories for me. That be said, from an objective standpoint, I still think that Martyn’s Bar is a great place! Here’s why…

This bar is an institution in Cali. Martyn, who is originally from Wales in the UK, started this bar in Cali more than 32 years ago. I wasn’t even born back then. And even after all these years, Martyn himself is usually the one attending the guests, shaking cocktails and serving the beers – and he does it with a smile. To spend 32 years in the same business, you gotta love it, and it clearly visible that he does. Martyn interacts with his guests, tell stories (and he has some good ones), cracks jokes, reads palms, dances and drinks. It’s a pleasure to watch.

Martyn’s Bar is what I would call a rock ‘n roll dive bar, full of old motorcycles, licence plates, posters and knickknacks on the walls. Pay close attention to two of the signs hanging from the ceiling. One says “If the music is too loud for you, then you’re too old to be here!”. No need to say, the music is loud, and as ironic as it may be, sixty-something year old Martyn is usually the one rocking out the most. He also DJ’s in between serving drinks, playing anything from classic rock songs from the 60’s to present day hits. The second sign says “Don’t drink with Martyn!”. Let me disclose that I always drink with Martyn because I think he is great company, fun, a storyteller and a walking encyclopaedia. But, drinking with him is not for the faint of heart. Martyn loves to drink, especially tequila, and he is very good at it. According to himself, he has only ever met one person, who could drink more than himself. So, as fun at it might be, slow down and take it easy if you wanna last all night. And don’t worry – if he starts pouring shots, it is not his sneaky way of building up your tab – he simple simply wants a toast.

As a final note, Martyn’s Bar often has live music, most likely on Saturdays. Local rock band playing cover songs and they are usually pretty good! Check out his Facebook page or Twitter profile for updates on live events. No matter what, I always seem to able to find an excuse to go. Check it out!

Martyn’s Bar • Avenida 6a Norte # 24N-22 Barrio Santa Monica – Cali, Colombia

Opening hours: Wednesday-Saturday from 8:00pm to 3:00am.

Telephone: 667 3296