Paris is a city that enchants with its beauty, charm, and iconic café culture. As an expat, whether you're soaking in the stunning views of the Seine or strolling through its historic streets, there's nothing quite like enjoying a coffee in a bustling Parisian café or a nice meal at a local bistro to feel like you're truly part of the city.
If you're new to Paris or getting ready to make the move, you might be wondering: Where do the local Parisians go for their coffee breaks or a good meal? Let's dive into the top spots for an authentic "moveable feast" in Paris, from sunrise to sunset.
Start Your Day Like a Real Parisian: Best Cafés and Breakfast Spots in Paris
In Paris, mornings are often slow and indulgent, with a leisurely breakfast or a simple espresso before the day begins. The typical breakfast in France, known as "petit déjeuner," is often light but satisfying, mostly sweet. Most French people start their day with a small, strong espresso or a creamy café au lait, accompanied by a tartine—a slice of fresh baguette or country loaf spread with butter and jam or honey. The French butter is especially noteworthy for its rich, creamy flavor. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll understand why it’s so loved by the French people and why a simple tartine can be such a delightful way to start the day.
While croissants and pain au chocolat (chocolate-filled pastries) are beloved treats in France. These buttery and sweet pastries, also called "viennoiserie," are more commonly enjoyed on special occasions, during weekend brunches, or as an occasional indulgence. Parisians typically don't have large, hearty breakfasts, as the French prefer to keep it light before heading out to work or school.
Many Parisians grab their coffee at the counter, enjoying a quick "café " (a strong espresso) while chatting with friends, colleagues, the barista or reading the paper. Unlike in the U.S., where coffee on the go is popular, in Paris, it's common to pause for a few minutes and savor the moment.
For a more leisurely breakfast, Parisians head to their neighborhood boulangerie or café, where the focus is still on simplicity but with quality. Expect your coffee to be served in smaller portions than you might be used to in the States, and don't forget to enjoy the slow pace.
Here are some of the best café and breakfast spots in Paris to start your day:
Les Deux Magots - Iconic Literary Cafés in Paris
A legendary spot in Saint-Germain-des-Prés in the 6th arrondissement of Paris, known for its literary and intellectual clientele such as Ernest Hemingway and Simone de Beauvoir. Order an espresso and a croissant, savor the beautiful view of Église de Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and enjoy your moment in one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Paris.
Photo by Bernetta Tinkham on Pixy.org
Angelina - Breakfast on Rue de Rivoli
Located on Rue de Rivoli, Angelina is an elegant café renowned for its stunning French-style décor and legendary hot chocolate. The café also serves a delightful array of French pastries such as Mont-Blanc café, Paris-Brest, and breakfast options. For a more indulgent morning treat, you can enjoy their Parisian breakfast fix menu for €22, which includes a hot drink (among coffee, tea, or hot chocolate), fresh fruit juice, mini pastries (croissant and pain au chocolat), and a baguette tartine with butter, jam, and honey. It’s the perfect spot to savor a luxurious breakfast experience.
Le Pain Quotidien - Organic Bread for Breakfast
Le Pain Quotidien is a chain of rustic-chic bakery-cafés offering classic light dishes and organic breads with multiple locations around Paris. Their tartines, pancakes, French toast, and granola are a great way to start the day. And the prices are pretty reasonable, around 12€.
Boulangerie Poilâne - Artisanal Sourdough Bread
Poilâne is a must-visit bakery chain with several spots around Paris, known for its top-notch bread and pastries. They offer everything from classic to specialty sourdough bread, plus a great selection of pastries and cakes. Whether you’re grabbing a fresh loaf of sourdough for a relaxed breakfast at home or picking up a quick pastry for a simple morning bite, Poilâne has you covered.
Le Goûter: Discover Top Spots for Your Afternoon Sweet Treat in Paris
In France, le goûter is a cherished afternoon tradition, typically enjoyed around 4 or 5 p.m. It's a time for a light snack that breaks up the day between lunch and dinner. The goûter often includes sweet treats such as pastries, cookies, cakes, and hot beverages like chocolate, tea, or milk. It's a regular part of their day for children, with parents often providing a simple yet delightful spread of goodies after school. For adults, it can be a chance to relax with a coffee or tea and a light pastry. When the afternoon arrives, and you're looking to have a sweet treat, here are a few of the top spots to consider:
Ladurée: The Macaron Lover’s Dream
For a sweet afternoon indulgence, head to Ladurée. Ladurée is a renowned Parisian pâtisserie that has delighted customers with its exquisite pastries and confections since 1862. Famous for its elegant salons and iconic macarons, a delicate French pastry made from almond flour, egg whites, and sugar, Ladurée offers a luxurious experience steeped in tradition. Whether savoring a classic macaron or indulging in an exquisite pastry, Ladurée embodies the art of French pâtisserie at its finest.
Café de Flore: A Historic Parisian Café
For a taste of Parisian history, Café de Flore is a must-visit. This legendary café has been a gathering place for intellectuals and artists since the 19th century. Enjoy a coffee or a classic French pastry while soaking up the café's storied ambiance.
Quick Tips for Ordering Coffee Like a Local in France: When ordering coffee in France, keep it simple and embrace the local café culture. Opt for a small, strong espresso known as a "café," or go for a "café au lait," which is an espresso with a splash of hot milk, meaning coffee with milk in French. While it's a good alternative to a latte, "café au lait" is different from the American version you might be used to. Unlike the larger, creamier American-style latte, the French "café au lait" is typically served in a small cup. Also, keep in mind that French cafés usually don't offer iced coffee or large mugs, so stick with the classics and savor your drink slowly.
Bo&Mie: A Modern Café with Creative Pastries
Bo&Mie blends contemporary design with a creative twist on classic French pastries. This modern Parisian bakery stands out for its innovative approach to traditional treats, offering unique creations like the New York Roll, Cookie Shot Country, Babka Cannelle, and Vanilla Flan. If you are in the mood for a sweet afternoon treat, Bo&Mie delivers an exciting and delicious experience.
Best Bistros in Paris - Discover Parisian Flavors
Parisians love a good casual meal at their local bistros. A bistro is a laid-back yet charming dining spot where you can enjoy classic French cuisine in a relaxed setting. Think of it as a cozy, no-fuss eatery that serves up comforting dishes like stews and roast meats with great French wine, often at more affordable prices than upscale restaurants. With its simple decor and friendly vibe, a bistro is perfect for a casual lunch or dinner with friends or family, offering a taste of traditional French flavors without the formality of fine dining. Here are some of the best classic bistros in Paris:
Chez Janou: Best Chocolate Mousse Everr
Nestled near Place des Vosges in the trendy Le Marais area, Chez Janou, one of the most popular bistros on the Internet, boasts a charming Provençal atmosphere and a menu featuring traditional French and Mediterranean cuisine. The bistro is known for its beautiful terrace, where you can enjoy dishes like ratatouille, roast goat's cheese, stuffed vegetable provencal-style, rosemary duck breast, steak, and delectable pastries, including its iconic chocolate mousse that will be served in front of you from a big pot of mousse.
- Address: 2 rue Roger Verlomme, 75003 Paris
- Hours: Daily, 12:00 - 17:00, 19:00 - 23:30
Le Bistrot Paul Bert: A True Parisian Experience
Le Bistrot Paul Bert is a favorite among locals for its authentic bistro experience featuring family-style cuisine. With its classic French menu and warm, rustic décor, this bistro offers everything from tender steak frites to rich, flavorful sauces. Do not miss out on its iconic beef fillet with Sarawak pepper sauce, homemade fries, comforting desserts such as soufflé with Grand Marnier, and a red fruit platter with cottage cheese ice cream. The casual, friendly vibe makes it an ideal spot for a relaxed meal.
- Address: 18 Rue Paul Bert, 75011 Paris
- Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 12:00 - 14:00, 19:30 - 23:00
Le Relais de l’Entrecôte: Steak Lovers’ Delight
For those who love a good steak, Le Relais de l'Entrecôte is a must-visit, and it has several addresses in Paris. Le Relais de l'Entrecôte owes its reputation to a unique formula: a green salad with walnuts, followed by an extra-tender sirloin of beef and its famous secret sauce, accompanied by delicious homemade fries "pommes allumettes", which created in 1959. Beyond the savory side, the restaurant also proposes indulging desserts, such as chocolate profiteroles, vacherins (a sweet, meringue-based dessert filled with ice cream), and creme brulee.
Le Comptoir du Relais: A Classic Parisian Bistro
Le Comptoir du Relais is celebrated for its high-level bistronomic cuisine and welcoming ambiance. Located in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, this bistro, helmed by renowned chef Yves Camdeborde, serves up French classics with a modern twist, complemented by a selection of 100% natural wines. It's an ideal spot for a relaxed lunch or dinner in a quintessential Parisian setting. The dinner menu is at €60. Lunch costs around €40, excluding drinks, depending on your appetite. However, remember that the restaurant doesn't take reservations—arrive around 7 p.m. when they open and see if a table is available. You might just get lucky!
- Address: 9 Carrefour de l'Odéon, 75006 Paris
- Hours: Monday-Saturday, 08:00 - 20:00; Sunday, 09:00 - 20:00
The Best Apéro Spots in Paris: Where to Enjoy the Perfect Pre-Dinner Drink
Paris is famous for its lively social scene, and "apéro" (short for apéritif) is a beloved part of Parisian culture. For apéro, French people typically go for some great French wine—red, white, or even the increasingly popular orange wine—or they might opt for craft beers and classic cocktails like spritzes and mojitos. You might also try traditional aperitifs like pastis, a liquor made from aniseed and other herbs, typically served diluted with water, and it will turn into a lovely milky white drink. As for food, you'll find delicious artisanal cheese, charcuterie boards, olives, nuts, and chips to snack on. It's all about enjoying a relaxed vibe with simple, tasty bites and drinks.
Whether you are in the mood for a stylish rooftop bar, a cozy wine spot, or a craft-beer place, here are some of the best places in Paris to enjoy your apéro:
Le Perchoir Ménilmontant
Head to this chic rooftop bar for incredible views of Paris. Located in the trendy and lively 11th arrondissement of Paris, Le Perchoir Ménilmontant is the perfect spot to sip cocktails or wine while taking in the sunset. The relaxed vibe and panoramic cityscape make it a top choice for a sophisticated apéro.
Address: 14 rue Crespin du Gast, 75011 Paris
Le 17.45 Paris - Planches à composer
Le 17.45 Paris is a great spot to enjoy artisanal cheese and charcuterie boards paired with natural wines, craft beers, and cocktails. Their “Planches à composer” lets you customize your own apero platter, mixing and matching cheeses and cured meats to your taste. With over 40 carefully selected products from regional producers, including 16-month-aged Comté, Morbier, farmhouse Reblochon, and Brie with truffles, everything is locally sourced. Le 17.45 Paris has multiple locations in trendy Paris neighborhoods like Pigalle, République, and Batignolles, making it a perfect place for high-quality bites and drinks.
Little Red Door
The Little Red Door is widely regarded as one of the best cocktail bars in Paris. Nestled in the trendy Marais district, this speakeasy-style spot is all about innovative drinks and a cozy vibe. The cocktail menu changes regularly, showcasing high-quality local ingredients and creative techniques, so each visit offers something new. If you’re a cocktail enthusiast in Paris, this is definitely a place you won’t want to overlook!
Address: 60 Rue Charlot, 75003 Paris
Ker Beer - Bar à bières - Craft-Beer
Located in the 14th district of Paris, in the lively Montparnasse neighborhood, Ker Beer is a vibrant bar dedicated to craft beer enthusiasts in Paris, offering a large selection of artisanal Brittany beers, ciders, and plates to share. The laid-back atmosphere makes it perfect for hanging out with friends or meeting fellow beer lovers. Plus, their friendly staff is always eager to help you find your next favorite brew, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the world of craft beer in the heart of Paris!
Address: 10 Rue Vandamme, 75014 Paris
Enjoy the slow pace, savor the flavors, and let Paris turn each dining moment into a memorable part of your adventure. Bon appétit!
Besides, we are offering more tips for exploring food and entertainment:
Editor: Siyi CHEN
Photo credits Bram Naus
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