It could mean an establishment which serves beer, one which serves beer and food, wine, wine and food, a cabaret atmosphere or any other descriptions. Bars have taken the place of the caf . Nowhere will you find the variety of music halls, jazz clubs, dance halls, rock music, cabarets, satiric theater, risqu entertainment as in Paris. Paris is still a city not shy of nudity and there are many gay and lesbian clubs and restaurants mostly found in Le Marais. Bars are usually wine bars and pubs are generally serving beer and hard liquor.
Clubs usually have food and entertainment.
There are still some literary haunts and many hotels have their own clubs. Cabarets are still the first choice of nightlife entertainment because it is in the cabaret you will find the cancan of Paris. Just about every club and cabaret has a cover charge. Some covers include champagne or a one drink. Check it out if you want to be sure.