The barista beats away behind the counter. He is cleaning plates, steaming milk, orchestrating a loud symphony, yet the patrons are undisturbed. Occasionally, he carefully paints the coffee with steamed milk, leaving a delicate leaf shape in the cup.

I’m at one of my favourite coffee shops in Paris. Although it has been 2 years since I lived in Paris, I still remember my regular spots from those few months I spent studying here. On my short return to Paris, I had just enough time to revisit some old-time favourites of mine and discover some new places on the recommendation of friends.

Forget overpriced and crowded touristy locations, here are some spots I recommend checking out when you’re in the city of lights:

For brunch: Coutume
47 rue Babylone
Paris, France

A popular spot for locals and tourists alike, Coutume serves delicious coffee along with light lunches - a departure from the typical heavy European lunch.

For coffee: Télescope
5 Rue Villedo
Paris, France

Known for its filtered coffee, Télescope is for serious coffee lovers. Your drink will also come with the friendly explanation of the barista who usually explains where you coffee came from, its flavour, and how it’s made.


For art-lovers: Saint-Germain-des-Prés
6th Arrondissement
Paris, France

You can spend your entire day wandering the art neighborhood of the 6th arrondissement. Pick any art gallery and admire the beautiful paintings, photographs, and sculptures.


For pastries: La Patisserie des Rêves
93 Rue du Bac
Paris, France

I stepped into when seemed like a museum of pastries - all the desserts were kept in glass cases. Indeed, these beautifully crafted dessert please both the eyes and the taste buds.