A Local’s Guide to the Best Breakfast in Paris 2024
Last Updated on October 11, 2024 by April Nicole
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Are you looking for the best breakfast in Paris?
Paris, the city of lights, offers an array of delights that promise to start your day with a smile.
Finding the good food in the midst of its bustling streets can be a challenge, especially when you crave a quintessential Parisian breakfast.
As a long-time connoisseur of Parisian cafés, I’ve spent years exploring every corner of this magnificent city to unearth the best spots for a morning feast.
From hidden gems tucked away in narrow lanes to vibrant eateries with sunlit terraces, the quest for the perfect breakfast can seem daunting.
However, fear not! I’m here to guide you through a curated list of must-visit cafés where the pastries are buttery, the coffee is robust, and the ambiance is quintessentially Parisian.
Let me take you on a culinary journey to discover where the true heart of Parisian breakfast culture beats the loudest.
If you are in a hurry, here’s a summary of best breakfast in Paris:
Best Places for a Quick Breakfast
Twinkie Breakfast & Lunch
This café in the bustling 10th arrondissement offers a fast-paced yet friendly environment where time-crunched visitors can grab a delicious breakfast. Known for their American-style breakfasts, Twinkie serves up generous helpings of pancakes, bacon, and eggs any style. The interior is bright and modern, with a friendly staff that keeps the coffee coming and ensures that even the busiest patrons start their day right. best breakfast in Paris
Kozy Bosquet
Located near the trendy shops and waterside walks of Canal Saint Martin, Kozy Bosquet is the epitome of a modern Parisian café. It specializes in light, health-focused meals like yogurt granola bowls and avocado toast, all served quickly without sacrificing quality. The café’s minimalist design, combined with free Wi-Fi and excellent coffee, makes it a favored spot for both locals and tourists needing a quick, nutritious start.
Baguett’s Café
A gem on the Left Bank, this café offers a wide selection of grab-and-go options alongside more leisurely choices like omelets and croissants. It’s known for its excellent coffee and quick service, making it a go-to spot for students and professionals alike. The ambiance is casual with a touch of Parisian chic, ideal for those who appreciate a quick yet stylish breakfast experience.
Top Traditional Parisian Breakfast Spots
Le Pain Quotidien Marais
This bistro is a staple in the historic Marais district, known for its organic breads and communal tables that invite conversation and a shared dining experience. The ambiance is rustic yet refined, with an array of artisanal pastries and breads lined up like edible art. Their almond croissant paired with a steaming cup of café au lait is a must-try. The spot also offers a variety of organic jams and spreads, making it a perfect place for those who enjoy lingering over breakfast in a cozy, inviting setting.
JOZI BRUNCH Pantheon
Offering a contemporary twist on classic Parisian dishes, JOZI BRUNCH is a modern bistro that specializes in organic and locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant, located near the historic Pantheon, is sleek and modern with a touch of old-world charm. Their signature dish, a brioche topped with poached eggs, smoked salmon, and a drizzle of hollandaise sauce, is beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. The café also offers a selection of fresh juices and smoothies, perfect for a nutritious start to the day.
Café Méricourt
Café Méricourt, located in the trendy Le Marais area, is a standout for its innovative breakfast and brunch offerings. Known for its elegant minimalist decor and exceptional service, the café is famous for its delicious shakshuka and perfectly crafted avocado toast topped with poached eggs. Don’t miss their indulgent French toast, made from brioche and topped with seasonal fruits and maple syrup, paired with some of the best excellent coffee in Paris. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Café Méricourt offers a perfect blend of cozy ambiance and exquisite flavors, making it a must-visit for a memorable Parisian breakfast.
Eggs&Co.
A quaint little spot in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Eggs&Co. is all about celebrating the versatility of eggs. The setting is reminiscent of a Parisian country house, with exposed beams and whimsical chicken decor. Whether you opt for a classic Benedict or an adventurous dish like eggs with foie gras, the flavors are rich and satisfying. Their omelets are fluffy and served with a variety of cheeses, herbs, and fresh vegetables, making it a popular spot among those who crave a hearty, protein-packed breakfast. best breakfast in paris
Unique Breakfast Experiences in Paris
Breakfast on a Seine River Cruise
For a truly memorable morning, a breakfast cruise along the Seine offers breathtaking views of Parisian landmarks like Notre Dame, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower. Most cruises feature a classic French breakfast with croissants, fresh pastries, jams, and a selection of cheeses and cold cuts, accompanied by coffee or tea. It’s a peaceful yet luxurious way to start your day, floating past the city’s historic architecture.
Le Bal Café
Le Bal Café, attached to an art gallery in an old ballroom, provides a chic and cultural dining experience. The café is known for its focus on contemporary European dishes. You can enjoy a hearty English breakfast or delicate pastries in a space filled with artistic energy and historical layers. The gallery hosts exhibitions by contemporary photographers, making it a destination where art and cuisine enhance each other.
Café de Flore
One of Paris’s most iconic cafés, Café de Flore has been a meeting place for the intellectual elite since the early 20th century. The café offers a luxurious Parisian breakfast complete with viennoiseries, a selection of jams, and arguably the best café au lait in Paris. The interior boasts polished mahogany, mirrored walls, and a bustling terrace that offers prime people-watching along Boulevard Saint-Germain.
La Bossue
This delightful spot in Montmartre is renowned for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and excellent brunch buffet. La Bossue’s spread includes everything from homemade quiches and salads to cakes and tarts, all made from scratch in the open kitchen. The rustic décor, complete with vintage kitchenware and a cozy wood stove, makes guests feel like they’re dining in a French country house. The focus here is on quality and comfort, inviting diners to linger over a leisurely breakfast while enjoying the quaint surroundings. best breakfast in paris
International Influence: Global Breakfasts in Paris
The Hardware Société
Located steps away from the Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre, this Melbourne-inspired café has brought a slice of Australian brunch culture to Paris. The décor is chic and inviting, featuring minimalist interiors with a touch of rustic charm. The menu is famous for its baked eggs with fillings like salmon or chorizo, and the lobster benedict is a luxurious twist on a brunch classic. Their coffee, sourced from top-tier Melbourne roasters, complements every meal perfectly, ensuring a brunch experience that’s both flavorful and comforting.
Breakfast in America – Latin Quarter
This diner captures the essence of a classic American breakfast spot with its retro 1950s ambiance, complete with checkered floors and vintage jukeboxes. It’s a haven for expats and tourists alike, serving up hearty portions of pancakes, hash browns, and milkshakes that evoke the true American diner experience. Originally established in the vibrant Latin Quarter, this popular spot is the perfect place to fuel up before a day of exploring nearby bookshops and historical sites. Now, with a second location in Le Marais, the diner continues to attract a loyal following, expanding its reach and bringing its much-loved authentic American coffee—thick, rich, and a delightful rarity in Paris—to more locals and visitors alike.
Holybelly
Situated in the trendy 10th arrondissement near Canal Saint Martin, Holybelly stands out for its commitment to quality ingredients and exceptional coffee. The café has a dynamic vibe, with a friendly, English-speaking staff that makes everyone feel welcome. The menu features classics like pancakes and eggs cooked to perfection, but it’s their seasonal specials and commitment to “good food” that keep the locals coming back. It’s a spot where the love for food and coffee creates a vibrant, communal breakfast experience.
Treize Bakery Paris
A charming café near the Luxembourg Gardens, Treize Bakery is run by a South Carolinian chef who brings southern hospitality to the heart of Paris. The café’s interior feels like a cozy living room, complete with bookshelves and floral armchairs. Specializing in comfort food, their biscuits and gravy, and chicken and waffles are a must-try. The carrot cake and freshly brewed sweet iced tea offer a sweet taste of the South, making this a unique spot for breakfast lovers looking for warmth and comfort. best breakfast in paris