Paris is known as the City of Light, but it could also easily be called the City of Cafés. From traditional bistros to trendy cafes, there’s no shortage of places to grab a cup of coffee or a croissant in the French capital. But with so many options, it can be difficult to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best cafes in Paris to help you plan your next coffee break or brunch.
Post updated July 2026.
The best cafes in Paris
Paris is known for its café culture, and there are few cities in the world that rival the French capital for quaint cafés, café culture, and the art of passing the time. These are the 10 best cafes to visit in Paris in 2023, starting with my absolute favorite, Café de Flore.
1. Flore Coffee
Located in the heart of the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, this historic café has been a meeting place for artists, intellectuals and locals for more than a century. Café de Flore first opened its doors in 1887 as a simple café serving coffee and pastries. Over the years, it has become a beloved institution, attracting a diverse crowd of writers, artists and thinkers, including Ernest Hemingway, Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir and Pablo Picasso.
Today, the cafe remains a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, offering a mix of classic French dishes and modern cafe fare. The menu includes traditional French dishes such as snails and French fries, as well as salads, sandwiches and pastries.
Read more: 50 things you must do in Paris
2. The two magicians
Another café with a storied past, Les Deux Magots, was frequented by the likes of Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir. Les Deux Magots was also the birthplace of the literary and philosophical movement called Existentialism, emerging in the 1940s and 1950s, which many consider the apogee of Parisian culture. Today, it’s as popular as ever with tourists visiting the city hoping to spot a celebrity or mingle with the who’s who of Paris fashion week.
3. Angelina Paris
For as long as I can remember, I have been in love with Angelina Paris. While there are several locations throughout Paris today, my favorite spot remains the original tea house in front of the Tuileries Gardens. Be sure to try the famous hot chocolate, which is made with rich melted chocolate and served with whipped cream on the side. Hot chocolate is so popular that it has become one of the coffee’s star products and has even been served to famous people such as Coco Chanel and Marcel Proust.
Read more: A guide to visiting Angelina Paris
4. The Pink House
Known more famously as the “pink café” on Instagram, La Maison Rose has now become a staple option for travelers visiting Paris in search of old-world Parisian charm. And while rose-colored glasses may cloud your judgment a little, we think it’s the best way to see and experience Paris, in all its glory! While you’re here, be sure to spend time wandering around Montmartre, the famous artists’ district that still retains much of its charm, even today.
5. The Palette
This historic cafe located in Saint-Germain-des-Prés is one for the books, literally. Over the years, it has been frequented by famous figures such as Ernest Hemingway, Pablo Picasso and Jean-Paul Sartre. And today it is still one of the most frequented cafes in the neighborhood. The lovely outdoor seating is a great opportunity to people-watch, no matter what day of the week you visit.
6. Kitsuné Café
This modern cafe in the Palais Royal combines Japanese and French influences to create an atmosphere that is uniquely French but also distinctively minimalist Japanese. With great coffee and an aesthetically unforgettable cup of coffee that is recognized around the world, you can’t go wrong stopping at one of the many places in Paris for a morning brew.
7. Cafe Marly
Idyllically located in the Louvre museum, Café Marly offers stunning views of the iconic Pyramid and a menu of French classics. Think French onion soup, classic croissants and typically French service. It’s an essential Parisian experience to have breakfast here at least once, although keep in mind that you’ll pay for the view and location.
8. The Caféoteca
This coffee shop is known for its wide selection of coffee beans from around the world and its cozy atmosphere. Located in Le Marais, the best day of the week to visit would be weekends, especially Sundays when Le Marais really comes to life. Be sure to visit the nearby Place des Vosges if you’re visiting in the warmer months for the perfect excuse to relax and people-watch as Paris passes you by.
9. Dos Molinos Coffee
Although we are nearing the end of our list of the best cafes in Paris, that doesn’t mean these cafes are getting any less magnificent! In fact, this cafe is one of the most famous in all of Paris, thanks to its appearance in the popular movie “Amélie”. It’s a charming and cozy place with vintage decor and outdoor seating, located in popular Montmartre.
10. Carette
There is no denying my love for Carette. Since I discovered this cafe a decade ago on one of my visits to Paris, I have made sure to return on every visit since. With two locations in Paris, you can’t go wrong. My favorite location is Le Marais, when I pass through on my way to a local museum or just walk around the neighborhood. They make great coffee to go and have one of my favorite chocolate headaches in all of Paris.
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