Taking Your Parisian Coffee at the Comptoir
Everybody knows that the afternoon café is a Paris institution. And while the best coffee is rare, the streets are nevertheless spotted with cafés ranging from down, out, and dirty PMUs to fancy high-class fashion spots. But what not everybody knows is that you can get your shot of espresso (and other beverages) for at least 50 eurocents cheaper at the comptoir, the café's bar. A line-up of men ranging from the bodega owner to the Prada-wearing real estate agent take their turns leaning against the counter, exchanging gossip and perusing the day's news. The following recommendations come from Henry de Laguérie, a native Parisian, journalist, and news junkie who takes his café at the comptoir as religiously as a Muslim praying towards Mecca.
Savy
23, Rue Bayard
75008 8ème Arrondissement Paris, Paris, France
Across from the RTL radio station in the 8th arrondissement, le Savy is an institution in the neighborhood. Coffee at the bar means being treated to the cheeky humor of … the very Parisian café owner. [link]
Café Mode
24 Rue François 1er75008 Paris, France
Its placement right next to the radio station Europe 1 in the 8th arrondissement makes this a café heavily frequented by journalists. Café Mode is also a rare … nonsmoking establishment. You'll also find all the daily papers here. Duh. [link]
Café de la Nouvelle Mairie,
19 Rue des Fossés Saint-Jacques75005 Paris, France
Located right near the Panthéon, this café is known as a meeting spot for the business people of nearby record label offices. The interior of this popular and very … Parisian café was recently renovated and absolutely gorgeous. The little bar serves excellent coffee. [link]
Le Relais Odéon
132, Boulevard Saint-Germain
75006 6ème Arrondissement Paris, Paris, France
At the carrefour de l'Odéon, this Art Deco café has a marvelous pewter bar, fantastic bar stools, and a cozy interior. Read the excellent local daily Le Parisien, the … conservative Le Figaro, or check up on the latest rugby scores in L'Equipe. [link]
Le Pick Clops
16, Rue Vieille du Temple
75004 Paris, Paris, France
[link]
Café Basile
34, Rue de Grenelle
75007 7ème Arrondissement Paris, Paris, France
[link]
