Oberkampf
Grenier
An excellent but tiny dive bar with live bands in the upstairs hall some nights but usually downstairs in the front window. This is a great place to hear Django Reinhartd-style jazz guitar playing Jazz Manouche.
Chez Justine
Close to the center of the Oberkampf nightlife zone, "Justine's place" functions as a restaurant with trendy versions of French offerings, with mixed reviews, during the early evening, but it's 22:00 to 2:00, which really makes the place. Most of the room is filled with big wood-plank tables which are just the thing for for a lively conversation with friends, while the bar is comfy too and attracts a large crowd by late evening. The décor is classic, understated, and classy.
Nouveau Casino et Café Charbon
Right across the street from Justine's, the New Casino keeps rocking until dawn, both in the bar downstairs and the medium-size dance hall upstairs, making it very special among young Parisians, especially after the other places in the neighborhood have closed. The dance/concert hall features cutting-edge indi rock groups and cutting-edge electronica. The prices do reflect the hipness however.
Ba-ta-clan
Not long ago this place occupied the pinnacle of hipness, at which the Nouveau Casino now finds itself. It's been through a management change though and doesn't have quite the booking power it once did. Still, you should stop by, especially in the afternoon because the café downstairs is outstanding, perhaps even better than in the old days.
Le Vin de Zinc
The top surfaces of Parisian bars are almost consistently made of zinc, as is the one found at this lovely wine-bar, so you can spill your wine on it and it won't hurt anything.
L'Anciènne Menuiserie
With a young and hip clientele and music that is subdued, rather than screaming, L'Ancienne does well with those who want a break from the busy rue Oberkampf.
Mecano Bar
Le Scherkhan
Bastille
Café du Passage
Sip and swirl some full-bodied wines at this casual bistro that offers wine tastings every Saturday.
Entre Potes
A good place to relax "amongst friends" as entre potes suggesta, thus making it a fairly representative Parisian bar with notable cocktails.
Les marcheurs de planete
This French wine bar has good prices, a desirable atmosphere, and a friendly staff.