Coffee Shops in Paris with Fair Trade Practices: A Guide to Ethical Sipping
Paris is often considered one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the world. It’s famous for its art, culture, food, and, of course, its coffee shops. Drinking coffee in Paris can feel like a magical experience, with charming cafes around every corner offering the chance to sit, relax, and watch the world go by. But for those who care about ethical and sustainable practices, the question arises: where can you find coffee shops in Paris that serve fair trade coffee?
Fair trade is a system designed to ensure that farmers and workers receive fair wages, work in safe conditions, and have access to better opportunities. When it comes to coffee, fair trade also helps farmers grow their crops in environmentally friendly ways. Choosing coffee shops that use fair trade blends means supporting businesses that prioritize ethical practices while enjoying your favorite cup of coffee guilt-free. Luckily, Paris has no shortage of coffee shops committed to helping the planet while serving delicious beverages.
Here’s a guide to some of the best coffee spots in Paris that focus on fair trade practices, so you can sip responsibly.
1. Café Coutume
Nestled in the city’s chic 7th arrondissement, Café Coutume has gained a reputation for its high-quality coffee and ethical sourcing practices. They work closely with small coffee farmers from around the world, ensuring that growers receive fair payment for their beans. Café Coutume specializes in coffee that is responsibly sourced, and their offerings often include organic and fair trade blends.
The café itself has a minimalist yet cozy vibe, making it a perfect spot for your morning coffee or a peaceful afternoon break. Whether you prefer a smooth latte or a bold espresso, Coutume’s coffee is all about quality and sustainability.
2. La Caféothèque
La Caféothèque is often called the “temple of coffee” in Paris. Located near the Seine River, this coffee shop is dedicated to celebrating coffee from all over the world. With an emphasis on fair trade, they source beans directly from farmers without middlemen, ensuring that growers receive fair compensation.
At La Caféothèque, you’ll find an extensive menu of brews, and you can even join a coffee-tasting workshop to expand your knowledge of this beloved beverage. The shop’s warm and rustic décor creates a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for taking your time to enjoy a cup of coffee while reflecting on its origins.
3. Terres de Café
Terres de Café is another Parisian treasure for coffee lovers who care about sustainability. This chain of coffee shops prides itself on working with coffee producers committed to environmental and ethical practices, including fair trade. Their beans are roasted to perfection, creating rich, flavorful coffee that’s hard to resist.
What sets Terres de Café apart is their devotion to educating customers about the coffee production process. Many of their baristas are trained to explain the origins and sustainable methods used in making each cup. For anyone who appreciates artisanal coffee and cares about supporting ethical trade, Terres de Café is a great choice.
4. Café Lomi
Café Lomi stands out for its focus on quality, sustainability, and transparency. Located in the 18th arrondissement, this coffee roastery and café sources fair trade and organic coffee from regions like Africa, Latin America, and Asia. Their commitment to small-scale farmers is evident in their careful selection of beans that prioritize ethical and environmental practices.
The café itself is modern and spacious, making it ideal for catching up with friends or working on your laptop over a cup of ethically sourced coffee. They also offer coffee workshops, where you can learn about the importance of supporting fair trade practices and how it impacts farmers worldwide.
5. Dose – Dealer de Café
Dose is a favorite among locals looking for fair trade coffee in a cozy setting. This charming café focuses on sustainability in every aspect, from their coffee beans to their packaging. They work closely with coffee cooperatives that adhere to fair trade principles, ensuring both ethical standards and great taste.
With multiple locations around Paris, Dose makes it convenient to enjoy a cup of sustainable coffee wherever you are in the city. Their menu is diverse, offering everything from classic espresso drinks to creative coffee-based cocktails.
Why Fair Trade Matters
Choosing fair trade coffee is more than just a trendy option — it’s a meaningful decision that positively impacts farmers, workers, and the environment. Paris may be the “City of Lights,” but it’s also a city where people increasingly care about doing good through their everyday choices. By supporting coffee shops that prioritize fair trade practices, you help contribute to a more equitable and sustainable world.
How You Can Make a Difference
If you’re visiting Paris or live in the city, consider seeking out coffee shops that serve fair trade coffee. Not only will you enjoy some of the highest quality coffee available, but you’ll also know that your cup is making a positive impact. Whether it’s ensuring better wages for farmers or promoting eco-friendly farming methods, every sip counts.
So next time you’re wandering the streets of Paris, skip the big-name coffee chains and stop by one of these wonderful fair trade cafes. You’ll experience delicious coffee, support ethical trade, and enjoy the unmistakable Parisian café culture. That’s what we call a win-win!
