The Best Cafes & Restaurants in Paris

Perruche

Situated on the rooftop of the Printemps Haussmann department store in the 9th arrondissement, there is no better view of Paris than here. The Eiffel Tower engulfed by the dusty pink haze created by a summer sunset is something you do not want to miss. Cozy yet sophisticated, the yellow-striped furniture combined with the greenery entwined into the building itself will make you feel like you’ve been transported to a rustic garden in the Mediterranean during the height of summer. Described as serving ‘classic Provencal cuisine’, its carefully curated menu draws from southern French flavours. Both my friend and I opted for the only two pasta dishes on the menu: the tomato and stracciatella rigatoni and the burgundy truffle tagliatelle, accompanied with some complementary focaccia. The ambience mixed with fresh autumn air made it an impeccable dining experience. So if you want to try some traditional Provencal food in the centre of Paris, then Perruche is must-try! As well as that, you can almost certainly get the best Instagram picture of your trip right here as well.

Inform Café

This laid back, hole-in-the wall café is situated in the quiet neighbourhood of Ternes, right behind the Arc de Triomphe. As I was staying in this area, it was perfect for an early morning coffee run, but it can also serve as a pit stop to grab a snack and a drink during sightseeing. Also famous for its cinnamon buns, it did not disappoint. The sweet cream cheese frosting coupled with an iced latte was divine and made it my go-to cafe during my early autumn trip. It has limited seating, both inside and outside, which gives it a super cozy feel. Whether you are choosing to sit in and watch the world go by or quickly grab a refreshment and continue on with your day, I would highly recommend this local café.

La Maison Rose

For all the girlies out there, who doesn’t love a light pink theme?! Yes, this restaurant-café hybrid is decorated pink on the outside, has walls decorated with vines and is designed with jade green furniture. It is as cute as you can imagine. Located in the picturesque neighbourhood of Montmarte, this is the place for both foodies and Instagram girls. The neighbourhood is situated on a hill, so the restaurant itself is slanted, as will you be if you are sitting on its outside furniture. This quirky feature adds to the overall experience. I visited on a summer afternoon with two friends and we had a light lunch and some coffee. I had their house salad, which was ideal for the weather. It is a short walk away from the Sacré-Cœur, so i recommend grabbing a light lunch before or after visiting the iconic basilica.

Season

Part of a chain of hip American-influenced cafés in Paris, this modern food spot is great for brunch. Its extensive menu ensures it has something for everyone. If you have a sweet tooth, its wide variety of pancake options is your best bet, but if you’re in the mood for something savoury, there are classic options such as avocado toast and breakfast burritos. What caught my eye was its different iced latte flavours, including lavender, rose and even peanut butter! Any time there is an opportunity to try a different flavoured iced latte I will happily oblige. Its minimalist design is what also makes it a great place to eat, but if you're wanting to grab something quick, they also have a great selection of their own smoothies which you can easily drink on the go.

Les Deux Magots

You cannot go to Paris without dining at a traditional Parisian brasserie, and the legendary Les Deux Magots is the place to do so. Established in 1885 and located in the 6th arrondissement, its charming decor is steeped in history and, in its own words, has been ‘inspiring the most beautiful stories, for 140 years’. Its tables are laid out in the iconic side-by-side chairs style right on the street, so you can dine whilst observing the hustle and bustle along the Boulevard Saint-Germain. I would recommend ordering a classic Croque monsieur with a glass of wine at lunch to get the full French experience.