5 EXCEPTIONAL CAFÉS IN PARIS
Ernest Hemingway said that “There are only two places in the world where we can live happy: at home and in Paris”. Many of his fellow American writers, lately called The Lost Generation (G. Stein, F.Scott Fitzgerald...) found peace and inspiration in this magnificent city.
Nowadays many people come to Paris to embrace the centuries-old history, culture and, maybe fall in love. A lot of articles and guides promising an unforgettable stay in Paris are posted every day. I don’t want to mention the touristy places, but some exceptional cafes where you can have a cup of coffee or amazing dessert with a spectacular view. I propose you My Own Selection of 5 Hidden CAFES in Paris, that are not obviously known even to those who actually live in Paris. They are situated in different parts of the city, with different thematic and price range. Forget about banal things and experience something exceptional.
- ROSA BONHEUR SUR SEINE (HIPSTER)
This is a barge on the Seine river, next to the Alexandre III Bridge and the Grand Palais. It has amazing terrace, cool hipster atmosphere and “ the world's 8th largest pizza oven on a wood fire”. Every Wednesday there is a special event, a pop-rock concert, the celebration of youth and freedom. The prices are moderate (vine from 4 euro, food is more expensive). I would even say cheap for the precious moments you will spend on the Seine river. After, you will be able to have a wonderful walk by the river, or stay there for a street party.
Address: Port des Invalides, Quai d'Orsay, 75007 Paris
2.CAFÉ DE L’HOMME (CHIC)
This is a very chic, classy place with amazing view on The Eiffel Tower. It is situated on the top of the Museum de l’Homme, in the Chaillot Palace. Even celebrities (Elton John, Mick Jagger, Carla Bruni) have visited this café mostly because of the fantastic view and very-very delicious food. It is quite pricey (food), but at least you can experience an amazing 6 euro coffee and enjoy the
atmosphere. If you come in the evening, you will be able to see the Eiffel Tower sparkling.
Address: 17 Place du Trocadéro et du 11 Novembre, 75016 Paris
3.CAFÉ DES 2 MOULINS (ROMANTIC)
Have you seen the famous French romantic comedy The Fabulous Destiny of Amélie Poulain, by Jean-Pierre Jeunet ? In this movie the heroine of beautiful Audrey Tautou decides to change the lives of other people for the better. According to the plot, Amélie was a waitress at this Café situated in Montmartre. You can feel the magical atmosphere of this place, see and touch some items from the original movie. Many tourists come here, what caused the increase in prices. The food is not the best, but still it can be a nice experience. And of course, the whole Montmartre area is wonderful.
Address: 15, rue Lepic, 75018 Paris
4.RESTAURANT LE FRANK at LOUIS VUITTON FOUNDATION (CULTURAL)
Louis Vuitton Foundation is an iconic place, where old traditions meet modern art. The building itself is worth to see, you will also find numerous collections and exhibitions, library, and concert hall. Restaurant Le Frank is a signature of a famous French chef, Jean-Louis Nomicos, 1 star at the Guide Michelin. Don’t be scared, you can enjoy at least a dessert in this amazing restaurant with golden fishes above your head. The Foundation is quite far from the city center, next to Jardin d'acclimatation (you can use 1 ticket to visit the Foundation and the Garden) and Hippodrome. And be careful with the opening hours of the Restaurant, usually it is only from 12h00 to 19h00.
Address: 8 Avenue du Mahatma Gandhi, 75116 Paris
5.BOULANGERIE LA PRESTIGIEUSE DE VAUGIRARD (TRADITIONAL)
Everyone knows Parisian la Durée and craves its macaroons and hot chocolate. It seems fantastic to start your day with an almond croissant and finish it with a chocolate eclair (if after you go jogging in the Montsouris Parc or the Canal de l’Ourcq). I have several favorite bakeries in Paris, and one of them is La Prestigieuse by the Montparnasse Tower, another place to visit in Paris, that offers a fascinating view on the Eiffel Tower and the whole city. Not far from there you will find this traditional French “boulangerie” with fantastic desserts. The sandwiches are good, but the cakes are amazing. It can be a perfect option for a quick lunch on the way to the big shopping street of Paris (Rue de Rennes).
Address: 123 rue Vaugirard, 75015 Paris
This is a special selection that will help you to experience a real Parisian life in some perfect places with incredible atmosphere. Of course, there are a lot more MUST VISIT places in Paris. But those five are well-dispersed and “charmant”. Visit at least one of them, and understand why “Paris is not a city, it’s a world”.