The best Parisian cafés

The best Parisian cafés

How to find the best Parisian cafés where you can enjoy a truly great cup of coffee and enjoy watching the local and tourist wildlife in Paris? We’ve done a lot of searching, and here we present you with a selection of ten cafés that should delight you.

Paris cafés are famous worldwide, and tourists visiting the City of Light always make it a point to visit several of them, snapping countless selfies and posting numerous updates to entice their friends back home. For instance, Le Procope, the oldest café of them all, founded nearly three and a half centuries ago, is still in operation and definitely worth a visit, if only for its historical significance!

In the past, the coffee served in these establishments often tasted more like water than coffee, and people visited primarily to socialize. However, the new wave of Paris cafés is quite different. Everywhere you look, you can see the meticulous care that baristas take in preparing hot beverages. These establishments have become not only beautiful but also serve delicious coffee that truly awakens the senses and puts you in a good mood. So, if you see these roasters showcasing their craft in one of these places, you know you are in good hands, and your visit will surely be a memorable one. It will likely encourage you to return and recommend this spot to your friends when they visit a specific neighborhood. Happy discoveries to everyone!

For more recommendations on the best cafés in Paris, other great addresses in the city or Tastet favorites in Paris, and to help you navigate during your stay, download our Tastet+ app.

Clove

Clove

In the iconic Montmartre district lies one of the best cafés in the capital, Clove Café. This café, with its minimalist décor and Scandinavian vibes, is a must-try to gather a bit of courage before climbing the steps to Sacré-Cœur or simply for a non-touristy gourmet break in this very touristy 18th arrondissement.

14 Rue Chappe
Paris
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Gramme Paris 3

Gramme is the popular brunch spot in the Marais that has been bustling since its inception. The talented team promotes a new Parisian cuisine inspired by seasonal products in this charming little space in the 3rd arrondissement, where coffee flows all day long. Be prepared for a wait; although the narrowness adds to the charm of the place, the line outside can sometimes stretch all the way down the street.

86 Rue des Archives
Paris
Motors

Motors Coffee

Dressed all in black and sporting a modern industrial look, Motors stands out as one of the best cafés in town. You’re welcomed by a team of coffee enthusiasts who will spark your curiosity and guide you through a niche selection. While the coffee is delicious, the pastries are equally delightful. Enjoy a cinnamon roll, carrot cake, cookies, and other treats for a gourmet coffee break in the 1st arrondissement!

7 Rue des Halles
Paris
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Télescope Café

A veteran in the third-wave coffee scene! This super cute little café is a must-visit in the 1st arrondissement. Grilled banana bread with a bit of butter paired with a coffee, and you’re all set!

5 Rue Villédo
Paris
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DREAMIN MAN

Dreamin’ Man is the go-to spot for many Parisian restaurateurs, promising a top-notch coffee experience. Mission accomplished: the dark elixir is delicious and fills the small wabi-sabi-style space in the 11th arrondissement with its rich aroma. It’s perfect for a quick pick-me-up near République. You won’t have to be persuaded to try one of the enticing homemade pastries on display, which change daily!

140 Rue Amelot
Paris
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Terres de Café

Founded in 2009, Terre de Café coffees can now be found all over the city, much to the delight of Parisians. Named the best French roaster, the brand offers the widest range of specialty coffees in Europe, with over 30 exclusive coffees, both whole bean and ground, sourced from pure origins or blends, across four permanent ranges. Each location has its own unique charm, yet they all adhere to the same guiding principle: quality specialty coffee and professional service. If you find yourself in the 1st arrondissement, we highly recommend Terre de Café Saint-Honoré for an intoxicating coffee experience.

150 Rue Saint-Honoré
Paris
Iocafe

I.O Café

This small café near Rue du Temple is perfect for observing the eclectic wildlife of the Marais as they go about their daily activities. The welcome here is warm, and this address in the 3rd arrondissement offers delicious specialty coffee along with a few simple yet delightful pastries. The team also introduces us to roasting houses from far and wide.

16 Rue Dupetit-Thouars
Paris
Substance

Substance Café

Substance is a tiny spot that fosters many moments of sharing. Don’t be surprised to see a few customers literally hanging on the owners’ every word—this is a common occurrence at this address in the 2nd arrondissement of Paris! People come for a carefully selected, excellent coffee and stay for the passionate discussions from the owners, who talk about the intricacies of coffee in an engaging way.

30 Rue Dussoubs
Paris
Boot Cafe 12

Boot Café

Boot Café doesn’t look like a café at first glance. Located in a former shoemaker’s shop in the 3rd arrondissement, the owners chose to preserve the beautiful period facade. Some might call it a very Instagrammable café, while others say it retains the charm of yesteryear. Either way, the coffee served here is delicious. The few seats inside don’t allow for lingering for hours, but you can enjoy your coffee to go.

19 Rue du Pont aux Choux
Paris
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