Cocktail Dreams Saranda

The relaxed, classy interior made for a great atmosphere, and the drinks menu had plenty of variety. We had a skilled bartender and a really lovely waitress who made our evening. This is a cocktail bar worth visiting.

The beach is beautiful and the staff are nice, which makes the payment experience all the more frustrating. I came in with only 500 leke and explained that I was short on cash, asking if I could pay by card. A staff member agreed. After looking for a sun lounger, I had a beer, then later told the waiter I’d already checked about paying by card. He wasn’t happy, but opened a tab. I had four more beers, and there was another awkward, though very polite, discussion when I went to settle it. They saw euros in my wallet and suggested I pay with those. Later I realized the conversion rate was awful. Businesses need to rethink this; it’s terrible practice, and people end up spending less than they otherwise might. Cocktail dreams captures some of the worst parts of Saranda, beach privatization and inconvenient payment options. A shame.

I came here a few times. Getting to the beach is okay, but the entrance to the water gets blocked by people and their things, so you have to walk around or step over them. There were kids running around without swimwear, too. We were mostly ignored, and when we went to order at the bar the waiters stared us down. The staff could have been friendlier, they were blunt and rude. Some sunbed back supports were broken and need fixing.

We stopped by for sunset drinks last night. Lovely spot, very friendly staff, and the cocktails were really good. I’d definitely recommend visiting.