When a group of friends dreamed of opening a bar, they wanted more than music and drinks. They envisioned a place filled with history, flavour, and the memory of Asunción’s downtown streets. That vision gave birth to Arsenal Cué, a space that has since become both a tribute to the city, and a meeting point for those seeking something out of the ordinary.
From inspiration to creation
René Schneider, Managing Partner and Head of Administration, explains how it all began: “We wanted the kind of bar we enjoyed ourselves: urban, alternative, and with real character.” Finding the right location proved difficult. After months of searching, they finally discovered a property that could reflect their vision of a bar rooted in the character of the city centre.
A curious detail: what is now a gathering place, the building at Mariscal Estigarribia 144, between Yegros and Independencia Nacional, was once the residence of Cándido Bareiro, President of Paraguay from 1878 to 1880.
Situated on the second floor, the venue offers long balconies, four distinct rooms, and two serving areas. Natural airflow between windows and balconies creates a relaxed atmosphere, unlike other upstairs venues that often feel enclosed.
Hand-painted signs by retro-style artists cover the walls, with each room dedicated to a different theme. One corner pays homage to the money changers of Palma Street, another recalls the days of the ice luxury era, while another evokes the cinemas and bars of the historic centre.
Every detail is a nod to a specific moment in Asunción’s history. Even the name “Arsenal Cué” refers to a time in 1883 when breweries were authorised under General Caballero’s government, followed by the establishment of an ice factory in Arsenal Cué, an area originally named after English-built arms workshops. The site later became known for storing vast supplies of drinks.
Arsenal Cué and its journey through the years
Arsenal Cué opened on 7 December 2016 and has since become a landmark in the city. Initially popular as an after-work bar, it has evolved in step with Asunción’s rhythms. Over time, the music shifted from alternative rock to urban genres such as reggaeton and trap, but dancing has always remained at its core.
If Arsenal Cué excels at anything, it is in bringing people together. Legendary promotions such as “2-for-1 Fernet Tuesdays” filled the rooms before, while today, themed Thursdays are the highlight of the week. From tributes to international events such as La Bresh to playful Retroton nights, diversity has always been the main attraction.
Food and drink are equally central to the bar’s identity. Their marineritas – despite the name, they contain no seafood – are a signature. Made with tender, floured beef fillets, they are crispy, flavourful, and unforgettable. Fernet and Pilsen beer remain constant on the tables, while Aperol has recently become a favourite. Their former signature shot, the “Mongarú” – a blend of cane spirit and coffee – remains remembered as a a bold, and innovative creation.
More than a bar: Asunción’s living tribute
Even the smallest details have become part of the Arsenal Cué brand. The weekly signs displayed at the entrance often feature humour, trends, or cultural references drawn from X (formerly Twitter). Some have even gone viral beyond Paraguay, becoming an unexpected trademark that keeps the bar closely connected with its community.
Arsenal Cué has never been simply a bar. It is a living homage to the city centre, a space where past and present meet. Nearly a decade on, it has become a place where Asunción gathers to party, dance, and remember.
VIP Card benefits
For Asunción Times VIP readers, the bar has direct free admission, no queuing, plus a complimentary Fernet just by showing your VIP Member card – one of many VIP Member Benefits. For music, nostalgia or marineritas, Arsenal Cué is a part of Asunción nightlife’s landscape.
Arsenal Cué opening hours
Monday: 6 PM – 2 AM
Tuesday: Closed.
Wednesday: 6 PM – 2 AM
Thursday: 6 PM – 4 AM
Friday: 6 PM – 5 AM
Saturday: 8:30 PM – 6 AM
Sunday: 6 PM – 2 PM
For more information, check Arsenal Cué on Instagram.
