Best Coffee Shops in Paris for Espresso Lovers
Paris is well-known for its charming streets, beautiful architecture, and cozy cafes. For many, visiting a coffee shop in Paris is more than just grabbing a drink – it’s an experience. While cafés in Paris are famous for their rich history and atmospheric views, espresso lovers might be wondering where they can find the bold, flavorful coffee they crave. To help you navigate the coffee culture in Paris, we’ve rounded up the top coffee shops that specialize in serving high-quality espresso.
Whether you’re a tourist exploring the city of light or a Parisian on the hunt for your next favorite cafe, these spots will satisfy your craving for that perfect espresso shot.
1. Café Kitsuné
Located in several iconic spots in Paris, including the stunning Palais Royal gardens, Café Kitsuné offers a serene escape from the bustling city. Known for their exceptional coffee quality, the espresso here is rich with flavor, perfectly balanced, and satisfying. The baristas take time to craft each cup with care, offering a smooth experience whether you enjoy your espresso straight or as part of a latte. While the coffee is the star of the show, their pastries are equally tempting – making this a must-visit spot.
Bonus: The outdoor seating at their Palais Royal location allows you to soak in the views while savoring your drink.
2. Ten Belles
Situated near the Canal Saint-Martin, Ten Belles is a favorite among locals and coffee enthusiasts alike. Don’t let its small size fool you – the coffee here is outstanding. The shop prides itself on using top-quality beans sourced from sustainable producers, roasted to bring out their natural flavors. Their espresso is robust and aromatic, making it ideal for purists. If you’re in the mood for breakfast or lunch, they also offer fresh, homemade dishes and treats.
Tip: Grab a coffee to go and enjoy a leisurely walk along the canal for a true Parisian experience.
3. Hexagone Café
Hexagone Café is a hidden gem in Paris for people who are passionate about coffee. This shop has a minimalist, modern vibe and a focus on perfecting their espresso-making technique. Whether you prefer a single shot or a double, the espresso here is full-bodied with complex flavors that espresso enthusiasts will appreciate. Hexagone Café is known for experimenting with different beans and roasts, so you’ll likely discover something unique every time you visit.
Pro Tip: Check out their coffee workshops if you want to learn more about brewing, roasting, and tasting.
4. La Fontaine de Belleville
If you’re looking for a classic Parisian cafe vibe combined with excellent espresso, La Fontaine de Belleville is the place to be. This charming spot offers vintage decor, a lively atmosphere, and high-quality coffee served with traditional French flair. Their espresso is smooth, perfectly extracted, and pairs wonderfully with a buttery croissant or tartine. It’s the kind of café where you’ll want to linger, people-watch, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life, Parisian-style.
Don’t miss: This spot becomes extra lively during aperitif hours – so visit earlier in the day for a quieter coffee break.
5. Fragments
Fragments, located in the trendy Marais district, is a coffee shop for those who appreciate the art of coffee. Their espresso is consistently top-notch, with baristas who are skilled and passionate about bringing out the best in every cup. The shop is small and cozy, with an understated interior that lets the coffee (and excellent food) shine. Fragments is particularly popular with locals, so you’ll feel like you’ve discovered one of Paris’s secrets when you visit.
Try this: Pair your espresso with their famous banana bread – it’s a crowd favorite.
6. Belleville Brûlerie
More than just a coffee shop, Belleville Brûlerie is a roastery that plays a major role in revitalizing Paris’s coffee scene. You can visit their shop to enjoy an expertly brewed espresso or buy beans to take home and try making your own. They use high-quality, ethically sourced beans and roast them in-house to highlight their unique flavors. The espresso here is bold and memorable, perfect for those who love coffee with rich depth.
Fun fact: Belleville Brûlerie supplies coffee to many of Paris’s best cafés, so you’re likely to taste their beans elsewhere too!
7. Lomi
Located away from the tourist-packed areas, Lomi is a specialty coffee shop that has earned a reputation for excellence. Their espresso is created with precision, and they interact with customers to explain the origins and flavors of the coffee they serve. Many customers appreciate the welcoming vibe and the opportunity to learn more about coffee. In addition to espresso, they sell freshly roasted beans you can take home.
For Coffee Nerds: Their latte art and brewing labs are an exciting feature of the cafe, perfect for those wanting to dive deeper into coffee culture.
Final Thoughts
Paris may be famous for its wine and fashion, but it’s also becoming a hotspot for coffee lovers. These seven coffee shops prove that espresso has earned a special place in the city’s vibrant cafe scene. Whether you prefer a classic shot, a smooth lungo, or an adventurous specialty roast, these spots will satisfy your taste and give you a reason to return.
Next time you’re in Paris, treat yourself to a cup of espresso at one—or all—of these great coffee shops. Who knows? You might discover the best coffee of your life right here in the heart of the city!
