Coffee in Paris is experienced differently. People don’t rush around with a paper cup on the way to work; they sit on a terrace and enjoy a quiet start to their day. And yet, the French capital has never had a strong reputation for great coffee.
Hear me out. Paris is famous for its café crème, the traditional coffee you’ll find in almost every French café—but it hasn’t historically been known for excellence when it comes to beans, brewing, or consistency.
Thankfully, that reputation is changing. Paris is currently undergoing a revival thanks to the rise of so-called “third-wave” coffee, a movement that has transformed the Paris coffee scene through artisanal roasting, precision brewing, high-quality beans, and thoughtful atmospheres. What’s particularly exciting is that many of these places manage to combine Parisian charm with modern coffee culture, making the city a true destination for coffee lovers.
Here are a few addresses worth stopping at on your coffee tour of Paris.
Why Paris Is Finally a Great City for Coffee Lovers
KB CaféShop
Located in SoPi (South Pigalle), KB CaféShop is a true local favourite for coffee lovers and digital nomads alike. Known for roasting its own beans under the name KB Coffee Roasters, it offers high-quality espresso, filter coffee, and a tempting selection of pastries and cakes.
What really sets it apart is its sunny terrace on a lovely square at the top of Rue des Martyrs—a perfect setting for a leisurely breakfast or a relaxed afternoon with a laptop!
Coutume Café
Coutume Café was one of the pioneers of specialty coffee in Paris, and it’s easy to see why. Its approach treats coffee almost like a science. The café even offers classes for those who want to learn more about coffee and how to brew it properly.
The atmosphere is modern and minimalist, making it ideal if you’re looking for a place with few distractions—whether to work or catch up with an old friend. It’s also a solid spot for brunch or a light lunch, with many dishes that are both healthy and delicious.
Café Kitsuné
You may already know the Kitsuné brand for its work in music, fashion, and lifestyle. Café Kitsuné is an extension of that universe, blending Parisian elegance with Japanese minimalism.
Here, you can expect quality coffee, a carefully curated atmosphere, and signature drinks such as matcha lattes and flat whites, often paired with chic pastries or snacks. It’s a great option for those who want a stylish coffee experience without compromising on good beans.
Noir
A relatively recent addition to the Paris coffee scene, Noir has quickly gained recognition for its commitment to quality. Roasting its own beans and operating multiple locations across the city, it has become a favourite among coffee aficionados.
The aesthetic is minimalist and the focus firmly on the coffee itself. One thing to keep in mind: the spaces are often small and can get crowded, especially at peak hours.
Dose
Dose offers a local, unpretentious coffee experience with a strong focus on quality. The menu sticks to the essentials — espresso, filter coffee, and lattes — all prepared with care and consistency.
Originally a much-loved address on Rue Mouffetard, Dose has since expanded and now has several locations across Paris, including Batignolles, the 10th arrondissement, and two spots in the 18th.
It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a no-frills, honest cup of coffee in a relaxed, everyday setting, especially while exploring the city’s more historic neighbourhoods.
Komorebi
In my opinion, Komorebi is one of the coziest coffee spots in Paris, a calm escape from the usual tourist bustle. Inspired by Japan, its menu reflects this influence through its teas and food choices.
It also serves a phenomenal cinnamon roll that is worth the detour on its own!
Beans on Fire
Among the lesser-known but highly appreciated coffee shops in Paris, Beans on Fire is often recommended by locals for a genuine, laid-back coffee experience. If you’re exploring Montmartre or simply want to step away from central, tourist-heavy cafés, this spot offers a more intimate and grounded alternative.
Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots
No list of Paris cafés would be complete without Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots, two legendary institutions of Parisian café culture.
Dating back to 1887, Café de Flore is a cornerstone of the city’s intellectual and artistic life. Located in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, it remains a go-to for a classic Parisian coffee experience.
Equally historic, Les Deux Magots has long been a meeting place for writers, artists, and thinkers. Its tradition remains intact, and it continues to attract both tourists and locals seeking a taste of literary Paris.
Final Thoughts : Why Paris Is Finally a Great City for Coffee Lovers
So there you have it, Paris’s coffee scene today is far richer and more varied than many people realise. And what binds all the cafés featured on this list is a shared love for coffee. Coffee in Paris has always been part of a broader food culture — one shaped by ritual, rhythm, and a respect for simple pleasures, rather than speed or convenience.
For places like Coutume, Noir, or KB, it’s about craftsmanship, bean origin, and brewing technique. For classics like Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots, it’s about heritage, atmosphere, and storytelling. And for under-the-radar spots like Komorebi or Beans on Fire, it’s about warmth, authenticity, and a slower pace.
So whether you’re after the perfect pour-over, a chic flat white, or a simple espresso enjoyed at a street-side table, Paris delivers.
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