Map Monday – The Barman of the Ritz

Submitted: 5th October 2026

Barman of the Ritz

Where are we going?

The iconic Ritz hotel and there is quite a story behind the bar there….

boarding pass new

The setting:

Paris 1940s

Despite the Occupation, the prestigious Ritz Hotel has managed to remain open. Its bar becomes a favourite spot for Nazis eager for a taste of French refinement. Its celebrated barman, Frank Meier, is forced to adapt to this new clientele. But he is hiding a secret that no one can find out: he is Jewish.

The Barman of the Ritz Philippe Collin

Review

OMG What a fascinating account of the life of Frank Meier, the barman at The Ritz hotel. To read a book inspired so heavily by fact and a real life person, was an honour. Frank, his work and life is amazing to discover.
And any excuse to actually go inside the Ritz even if just through the pages of a book. What a hotel! I would love to stay here one day especially after reading this.

The translation by Frank Wynne is just superb.

Key quote: from the man himself

“To be a bartender is to be a chemist and a psychologist.”