Last updated on August 31st, 2023
With every culture, though, there is a specific way of doing things, including ordering your delightful cup of coffee. Knowing how to order coffee in Paris is important because it is slightly different from what you may be accustomed to.
Paris coffee shops are a large and important part of the Parisian culture. One of the most pleasant things to do is sit outside a café with a coffee and croissant and enjoy watching people walk by.
In addition, with a café on every street corner, it also means that you have to know just where to get the right cup!
This guide will talk you through the correct cafe etiquette and detail some tips for you to know when visiting Paris. That way, you know what to order and get exactly what you asked for!
Tips on How to Order Coffee in Paris
Whether you are ordering coffee in Paris or somewhere else in France, you should know several different things. Here are some of the top things to know about café customs in Paris.
It is Cheaper to Order at the Counter
There are two prices for most Paris cafés. First, it is slightly cheaper to order your coffee at the bar. The counter, or bar, is referred to as the “zinc” and is a place for people to chat while they enjoy their morning cup of coffee.
If you sit at a table instead, your meal will be slightly more. For me, it is worth the extra couple of euros to get the quintessential Parisian café experience.
Order Your Coffee in the Morning
One shocking tip I learned about ordering coffee in Paris is that the price goes up around 11:00 am. Some of the traditional restaurants won’t even serve coffee in the afternoon or evening.
If you decide to have coffee in the late afternoon or evening, know that Parisians will order an espresso. It is only customary to order coffee with milk if it is in the morning.
Coffee is More Traditional in France
You will be hard-pressed to find different flavor syrups, milk, and out-of-the-box coffee combinations in France. Although there are several types of coffee to order, the options are much more traditional here.
On the other hand, many places pride themselves on using the best and freshest ingredients, making the product much better than other additives.
TRAVEL TIP: The coffee culture in Paris has changed over the last few years, and more varieties of coffee are available. You can find different milk alternatives in coffee shops and flavors in some places. These alternatives are starting to become more prevalent in France than before. Even takeaway coffees and larger portions were something I noticed were available in many different coffee shops in Paris, where in the past, this was hard to find.
Coffee Sizes Are Smaller
In Europe, the portion size of things tends to be smaller than what many are used to. The 20 oz. coffees are not something that you would typically see. Just know that coffee portions may seem smaller to you in France. In many cases, they also come in one size.
Don’t Stray from the Menu
I recommend you not try and replicate a drink of choice if it’s not on the menu. For example, iced coffees are generally not that well-known in France. Instead, stick to one of the options available. One of the best parts of visiting a new city is trying something new!
Regular Water is Free
You have to pay for the water in some countries, such as Italy. However, in Paris, tap water is not only fresh but is free to order.
It’s Okay to Ask for the Check
Like many places in Europe, you will have to ask for the check when you are ready. Don’t worry. It is not rude to ask! Just wait until they come by your table and request the bill.
Type of Coffee in France
Espresso
Simply asking for a cup of coffee will guarantee an espresso. That is the most popular coffee in France and the only one that Parisians consume throughout the day. If you want to sweeten it a little, small packets of sugar are usually available.
Many people enjoy ordering espresso because it gives them the quick boost they need to continue their day. It is also one of the cheaper menu items, starting at about €2 per shot. Espresso is usually the drink of choice after dinner. However, if your waiter asks if you want a café, know they are referring to an espresso.
Noisette
Une Noisette is, in short, an espresso with the addition of a bit of steamed milk. One tip to know is that it is not a hazelnut drink, even though “noisette” means hazelnut. It is called that due to the hazelnut color of the coffee. Noisette coffee is the perfect supplement for espresso if you like a more robust coffee with a subtle hint of milk.
Café Américain
The “American Coffee” is what many are used to drinking. It is the regular filtered coffee that many people drink on a daily bases. Some places will call this drink a Café Filtre.
Un Allongé
This type of coffee is just a weaker espresso. It has much more water added to it than espresso, and therefore not as strong. It is essentially just black coffee.
Café Crème
This decadent drink is my favorite French coffee because it resembles your typical cappuccino or latte. The coffee with milk and topped with foam. This drink is usually only served in the mornings. People typically drink black coffee in France after meals or later in the day.
Café au Lait
If you are looking for that large cup of coffee, go for a café au Lait. The coffee is mixed with warm milk and served in a much larger cup than the other types. It is very similar to a café crème.
Vocabulary for Ordering Coffee in Paris
When you travel somewhere, you should attempt to speak the language. Of course, no one expects you to become fluent overnight, but it is a large jester to learn some essential words and phrases. However, from my travels, I have noted that locals appreciate it.
- An expresso, please – “Un espresso, s’il vous plait.”
- With another coffee order, it’s the same, substitute out ‘espresso’ for your drink of choice.
- Eat in – Sur Place
- Takeaway – À emporter
- Déca – Decaf
- Some places will have decaffeinated coffee
- I would like – “Je voudrais”
- Thank you – mercí
- The bill please – “L’addition s’il vous plait.”
Coffee Etiquette in France
You may be accustomed to ordering coffee at a restaurant whenever you want. However, in France, it’s a bit different. And just like ordering tea in England, there are specific customs for ordering coffee in France.
In France, you usually drink coffee on its own without food. However, if you want to eat something with your coffee, you will most likely have to order it in the morning.
Now, some places will have coffee on the dinner menu. However, you must order it after you have finished your meal. Even if you are ordering dessert, it is consumed after eating.
Also, the customary drink of choice after a meal is espresso. Of course, order what you want if it is available on the menu. It will all depend on the restaurant you choose.
Another essential piece of advice is to not be in a rush. One of the things about Parisians is their love to socialize and relax. It is not uncommon for people to spend hours at a coffee shop or restaurant. If you are in a rush, then don’t sit down. Instead, order your coffee “à emporter” (If that’s an option) or stand at the bar and drink it.
Lastly, leave a little tip. It is not required etiquette in France, but if you had a pleasant experience, it is a nice way to say thank you. Simply leaving some change on the table is enough if you pay in cash.
The Best Cafés in Paris
France is known for its coffee culture. There are some delicious cafés in every city that you visit. You can find whatever you need in Paris, especially between sidewalk cafes, restaurants, and coffee shops. There are some terrific coffee shops in Paris. Here are just a few!
Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole
The reason to visit this café is twofold. First, it is one of the most beautiful cafes in Paris with lots of history. Located on the charming rue Chanoinesse, one of the prettiest streets in Paris, the coffee shop is draped with wisteria. Secondly, they offer breakfast items and a delicious dinner menu with traditional cocktails. Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole is one of the more traditional cafés and Paris as well as unique.
Address: 24 Rue Chanoinesse, 75004 Paris, France
KB Caféshop
The trendy coffee shop is a great place to come and hang out with friends. They have a large variety of coffee and some other menu items. You can even purchase bags of coffee from different parts of the world to brew your own cup at home.
Address: 53 Avenue Trudaine, 75009 Paris, France
La Fontaine de Belleville
For the quintessential Paris café experience, grab a seat outside at La Fountaine de Belleville. The café stays busy all day and night and serves more than just coffee. They have an assortment of wines, beers, and nonalcoholic drinks. They are one place that also serves coffee all day long. The food here is also delicious. They serve all the traditional Parisian breakfast items.
Address: 31-33 Rue Juliette Dodu, 75010 Paris, France
Le Peloton Café
For coffee on the go, the Peloton Café is the perfect stop in La Marais. There are a few places to sit inside if you prefer to sit and enjoy your coffee. Their coffee is not just inexpensive, but they have a large variety of breakfast items.
Address: 17 Rue du Pont Louis-Philippe, 75004 Paris, France
Conclusion
One of the best things to do in Paris is relax at a table outside a café and take in the city around you. Now that you know how to order coffee in Paris like a local you are ready to visit. I recommend leaving some free time in your Paris itinerary to experience the culinary marvel of the City of Lights.
Enjoyed this post? Here are some more about Paris!
Paris
- The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Trip to Paris
- Ultimate 5 Days in Paris Itinerary & Day Trip Ideas
- Top 20 Best Things to Do in Paris
- 20 of the Prettiest Streets in Paris
Paris Day Trips
Travel Planning Resources
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GET TRAVEL INSURANCE | Having travel insurance is always a good idea. World Nomads is one of the top travel insurance companies. It will cover you if you must cancel your trip or if something unexpected happens.
Check out the resource page for additional travel planning resources.
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