One of the largest cultural melting pots in Europe is without a doubt Paris. Second only to London, if my experience is any indication. And just like London, Paris has a wealth of influences that partially stem from the days of French colonialism, which have brought some truly unique experiences to the city. Just as an example, on a nice Saturday afternoon my friend and I had lunch at a Cambodian restaurant. I don’t recall ever seeing a Cambodian restaurant anywhere else in Europe.
Among the best cafes in Paris Although the French have mastered almost every aspect of food and drink (we guarantee you won't leave Paris without sampling the wine, cheese, and/or pastries), coffee quality is still debatable. Luckily, local roasters like Belleville Brûlerie, the owners of La Fontaine, are contributing to the coffee renaissance. The surrounding neighbourhood of Belleville is home to the roasting and cupping facility known as the Brûlerie. For you, it means that La Fontaine's beans are roasted only a few metro stations away, guaranteeing that your freshly brewed coffee is made by knowledgeable staff.
Paris is a city known for its iconic cafés, but beyond the bustling streets and famous spots lie hidden gems offering unique experiences for travelers. These lesser-known cafés are perfect for those who want to explore the authentic charm of Paris while enjoying great food, coffee, and ambiance. Here are five of the best hidden gems to discover in the City of Light.
1. Café Oberkampf
It's undoubtedly the coffee you will enjoy the most out of all the ones I sampled while in Paris. The little Café Oberkampf is situated close to the Oberkampf metro station in Paris's 11th arrondissement.
The ideal winter retreat is Café Oberkampf. This café has a really comfortable, homely vibe thanks to the condensation-streaked windows, the enticing coffee aroma, and the soft conversation of the international students. This is the place to be when the cold weather is getting to you! This café offers amazing coffees, light nibbles (rocky road!), and unique brunch options like shakshuka, along with the traditional Australian dish of smashed avocado on toast, every day of the week. In my opinion, when you're missing the conveniences of home, this is the café to visit. You can eat an Australian-style breakfast there, speak English without guilt, and get the confidence to go out and continue your "Parisian" existence. Oberkampf Café
Ambiance: Tucked away in the hip Oberkampf neighborhood, this small café exudes a cozy, laid-back vibe. The interior is minimalistic yet welcoming, with wooden tables and an open kitchen that makes you feel right at home.
Signature Dishes: Known for its brunch bowls, Café Oberkampf offers a delicious mix of avocado toast, eggs, and fresh greens. Their house-made granola is a must-try for breakfast lovers.
Unique Offering: It’s the perfect spot for a lazy Sunday brunch, where locals gather to chat and enjoy their coffee without the hustle of more tourist-heavy areas.
Traveler's Note: As you sit by the window, watching locals pass by, you’ll feel like you’ve found a piece of Paris that remains untouched by time.
2. La Fontaine de Belleville
The French bistro in a modern way Remind yourself to get some food while you're there. As a bistro, La Fontaine de Belleville serves a variety of contemporary takes on classic French dishes, such as croque monsieur, ham-and-cheese baguette sandwiches (with vegetarian variations), and cheese and meat plates. They have a popular brunch on weekends. When you arrive in the early evening, order a shared plate of crusty bread, dips, and vegetables as part of a French aperitif or apéro. Not to mention the wine.
Ambiance: Nestled in a quiet corner near Canal Saint-Martin, this café feels like a step back in time with its vintage décor and checkerboard floors. The Belle Époque aesthetic offers an authentic Parisian café experience.
Signature Dishes: The café crème here is unbeatable, paired perfectly with their buttery croissants. If you’re visiting later in the day, try their charcuterie boards for an evening snack.
Unique Offering: La Fontaine de Belleville is a café by day and a jazz venue by night, making it a great place to enjoy both a quiet coffee and lively evening entertainment.
Traveler's Note: Sit outside with a book, and you’ll feel like a local soaking in the Parisian way of life. The live music in the evening adds a magical twist to this café.
3. Boot Café
Wondering where the Boot Cafe gets its name from? The coffee is in a former cobbler. The decor has a vintage sense to it and is really inviting! I love the white tiles inside. Although this cafe is obviously little, there are some seats if you would like to stay for a bit. The cafe also has a fascinating assortment of old publications that are entertaining to look over. Is it not possible to picture yourself enjoying a cup of coffee here?
The best thing about their location is that it serves as both a teaching facility and a roastery, giving you a true look at every component needed to make excellent coffee. The pub has its own chefs who provide delectable meals and freshly baked pastries, and baristas like Sebastian, who is from Vienna, frequently experiment with coffee to produce unusual and intriguing beverages. I also saw Joe Mount of Metronomy savouring a flawlessly made flat white as I was leaving, which is proof that Cafe Lomi is doing something very right.
Ambiance: Known as one of the tiniest cafés in Paris, Boot Café is a former cobbler’s shop turned specialty coffee spot. With seating for just a few people, the charm lies in its intimate, almost secretive atmosphere.
Signature Dishes:
While the focus here is on the expertly brewed coffee, their *chocolate chip cookies* are the perfect accompaniment. You’ll find a variety of espresso-based drinks, all made with precision.
Unique Offering: Its quirky exterior, with a blue storefront still marked "Cordonnerie" (French for shoemaker), is Instagram-worthy and a reminder of Paris’s history.
Traveler's Note: This is the spot for the true coffee aficionado. Sip your drink on the sidewalk, and let the intimate nature of the café make you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a true hidden treasure.
Café Lomi
I enjoy certain aspects of Lomi Cafe Paris. If you reside in Paris, you will understand why the smiling baristas are on the list. 2. The earthy decor: I literally had to be pulled out of the leather armchair I was lounging in for the one and a half hours I was there before I could leave since I adore vintage or renovated furniture. 3. Do you understand me when I say that I tasted the carrot in the carrot cake? They made their own cakes, and they weren't overly sweet. Though not sticky, it was damp. The oolong tea was quite soothing. I'm sorry, but I skipped the coffee shop's coffee! However, let me just say that the tea I drank
Ambiance: Located in the 18th arrondissement, Café Lomi has a modern industrial feel with large windows, exposed brick, and plenty of natural light. It’s spacious enough for those who want to work or relax for hours.
Signature Dishes: They roast their own coffee beans on-site, making every cup of coffee rich and aromatic. Pair it with a slice of their homemade cake or a croissant for the full experience.
Unique Offering: Café Lomi’s reputation for quality coffee has made it a favorite among locals, but it’s still under the radar for many tourists. They also offer coffee workshops, perfect for travelers interested in learning about the art of brewing.
Traveler's Note: This is a fantastic spot to recharge after exploring Montmartre. If you're looking for a peaceful afternoon of people-watching, Café Lomi is the perfect refuge.
5. Le Bal Café
Amazing food and coffee drink.
You will never be able to claim to have seen everything in Paris, no matter how long you live there. You will discover something remarkable if you explore the most unexpected streets, possibly even those that are so little that only three people can fit in at once. An excellent illustration is Le Bal Café Otto. This Parisian café and restaurant, which is situated in the Impasse de la Défense, a short lane, is a haven from the noisy clubs, fast-food chains, and traffic of the Place de Clichy, which is close by.
living in Paris is of full highs (euphoria) and lows (disillusionment) of expat life. And throughout those emotional dips I’ve observed the local evolutions – the highs and lows – of the city itself.
Ambiance: Housed in a former 1920s ballroom, Le Bal Café offers a trendy, artsy atmosphere. It’s adjacent to a photography gallery, giving it a creative, modern edge. The simple yet chic design makes it a popular spot for artists and locals alike.
Signature Dishes: Known for its brunch, Le Bal Café serves British-inspired dishes like eggs benedict, as well as classic French pastries. The weekend brunch is a mix of hearty and refined, from pancakes to smoked salmon.
Unique Offering: The blend of a café and an art space creates a one-of-a-kind experience. You can enjoy a coffee, then wander into the gallery to discover modern photography exhibits.
Traveler's Note: For travelers looking to blend café culture with a bit of art, Le Bal Café offers an ideal retreat. The terrace is perfect in the warmer months, making it a favorite among locals in the know.
Conclusion:
Exploring these hidden cafés allows you to discover a different side of Paris, far from the busy tourist hubs. Whether you're after the perfect cup of coffee, a relaxing brunch, or a quiet place to reflect, these cafés offer authentic, unforgettable experiences. So, grab your map (or phone), wander off the beaten path, and enjoy the quieter side of Paris's café scene
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