Paris is a city teeming with bakeries, but finding the perfect spot for a delicious coffee and cake break can be a challenge. Not all cafes are created equal – some may lack seating or offer mediocre coffee. To help you navigate the Parisian pastry scene, we’ve curated a list of our favorite cafes, each offering a unique ambiance and delectable treats.
Charming Cafés Beyond the Tourist Trail
Stepping away from the tourist hotspots reveals hidden gems that locals flock to. These cafes offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, providing a cozy and welcoming atmosphere for your afternoon indulgence.
Let’s start with a charming modern pâtisserie in Montmartre. This local favorite is known for its exquisite homemade pastries, cakes, and fruit tarts. Visit Wednesday through Friday to avoid the crowds and fully immerse yourself in the inviting atmosphere.
Just a stone’s throw from the Eiffel Tower, a chic café blends the best of London, New York, and Parisian style. This is the perfect spot for a stylish Rive Gauche coffee and cake break. From fluffy scones to moist orange cake, everything is made in-house using 100% organic ingredients.
Contemporary Delights in the Heart of Paris
The 11th arrondissement pulsates with creativity, and its heart is home to a contemporary pastry shop and café. This airy space is the perfect setting to savor unique creations like a Paris-Brest with sesame and apricots or a baba au rhum with caramelized mirabelle plums and lime-mint whipped cream. Their good-value afternoon coffee and cake formule for only 9.50€ makes it a must-visit.
In the trendy Marché d’Aligre neighborhood, a relaxed and eco-friendly café embraces social responsibility. Sink into plush sofas and enjoy a slice of cake or rich brownie, paired with small-batch roasted coffee served in their signature “coffee is the new black” mugs.
Romantic Cafés with a Touch of History
Rose Bakery, a Parisian institution, has a magical café space nestled within the Musée de la Vie Romantique. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the hidden, verdant courtyard as you savor their famous scones, carrot cake, banana bread, and a variety of quality teas and coffee.
Across from the Luxembourg Gardens, a new location of an inviting American-run bakery-café offers a wide range of decadent cakes and excellent hot beverages. Indulge in a turmeric latte and treat yourself to a walk in the park afterwards, guilt-free.
The Marais district houses an intimate café with a hodgepodge collection of furniture, but one piece stands out: the hutch showcasing their daily selection of cakes and pies. Seasonal fruit tarts, towering lemon meringue pies, and rich fondants au chocolat are just a few of the tempting treats that will surely delight.
Nestled in the historic Passage Jouffroy, a classic tea salon offers a cozy atmosphere on the second floor. Comfy couches and banquette seating invite you to relax and enjoy a wide array of French pastries and mini-cakes.
These are just a few of the many charming and delightful cafes in Paris offering the perfect spot to enjoy a coffee and cake break. So, grab a friend, explore the city, and treat yourself to a sweet escape!
