In This Issue of The Paris Love Letter

• Paris Links: Links to useful articles I’ve found online this week

• Cafe Culture: 6 Coffee Spots in Paris for Caffeine Lovers

• Featured French Song: Julien Doré - Sublime & Silence

PARIS LINKS

➡️ Nothing could go wrong: The story behind the Paris Olympics cauldron balloon - From AP: The balloon, lit by the Olympic torch and set off into the sky, was a risk. After all, it was the first time it had ever been tested in its entirety, Lehanneur told The Associated Press on Wednesday.

➡️ Best Time to See Paris: A Season-by-Season Guide on When to Go - From Paris Unlocked: The truth is that the “right” response will almost entirely depend on your specific budget, interests and personal tastes, who you’re traveling with, and many other factors. There isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” answer.

➡️ Emily in Paris Remembers What It’s Like to Be Single in Season 4 Trailer - From Netflix: For Emily in Paris Fans, Season 4 is almost here!

Snapshots of Paris

1. (top left) The Pantheon - On Tour with Bike About Tours

2. (top right) The Latin Quarter

3. (bottom left) Our Lion Cub “Floating” in a lake in Burgundy

4. (bottom right) Looking at The Left Bank from Île de la Cité

Café Culture

6 Coffee Spots in Paris for Caffeine Lovers

Paris, renowned for its rich café culture, offers an array of exceptional coffee spots that cater to both locals and tourists. From traditional Parisian cafés to modern specialty coffee shops, the city's diverse coffee scene provides something for every taste and preference.

The top 6 coffee spots in Paris showcase the best of the city's coffee culture, combining quality beans, expert brewing techniques, and charming atmospheres. These establishments range from cozy neighborhood gems to trendy hotspots, each offering a unique experience that captures the essence of Parisian coffee enjoyment.

Café de Flore

Café de Flore stands as an iconic Parisian coffee spot, located in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Established in the 1880s, this historic café has long been a favorite among intellectuals, artists, and celebrities.

The café's art deco interior and red leather banquettes create an atmosphere steeped in nostalgia. Its sidewalk terrace offers prime people-watching opportunities on the bustling Boulevard Saint-Germain.

Café de Flore is renowned for its exceptional coffee and hot chocolate. The menu also features classic French dishes like croque monsieur, making it a popular choice for both drinks and light meals.

Prices at Café de Flore reflect its prestigious status and prime location. A cup of hot chocolate costs around 7.50€, while croque monsieurs are priced between 12-14€ each.

The café's enduring popularity means tables can be scarce, especially during peak hours. Visitors are advised to arrive early or be prepared to wait for a seat at this celebrated Parisian institution.

Le Peloton Café

Le Peloton Café is a cozy and inviting coffee spot located in the Marais district. Known for its friendly atmosphere and excellent coffee, this café has quickly become a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

The café is owned by an American and New Zealander duo who share a passion for cycling and quality coffee (and also own Bike About Tours). This unique combination is reflected in the café's name and décor, creating a welcoming environment for coffee lovers and cyclists.

Le Peloton Café sources its beans from Belleville Brûlerie, one of Paris's top roasters, ensuring each cup is rich and flavorful. The menu features a range of espresso-based drinks, pour-overs, and cold brews, catering to diverse tastes.

In addition to its excellent coffee, Le Peloton Café offers a selection of delicious pastries and light snacks, making it a perfect spot for breakfast or a mid-day treat.

The café's location in the vibrant Marais district makes it an ideal stop for those exploring the area. Whether you're looking for a place to relax or fuel up before a day of sightseeing, Le Peloton Café offers a delightful coffee experience in the heart of Paris.

La Caféothèque

La Caféothèque stands out as a premier coffee destination in Paris. Located at 52 Rue de l'Hôtel de ville in the 4th arrondissement, this café offers a unique experience for coffee enthusiasts.

The establishment serves as both a coffee shop and a roastery, ensuring fresh, high-quality brews. La Caféothèque sources beans from various regions, providing customers with a diverse range of flavors and aromas.

Visitors can expect expertly crafted espresso drinks and specialty coffees prepared by skilled baristas. The café's commitment to excellence extends to its atmosphere, which combines Parisian charm with a focus on coffee education.

La Caféothèque frequently hosts events and workshops, allowing patrons to deepen their knowledge of coffee cultivation, roasting, and brewing techniques. This dedication to coffee culture has earned it a reputation as a "coffee temple" in Paris.

The café's central location makes it easily accessible for both locals and tourists exploring the city. Its proximity to major attractions adds to its appeal as a stop for those seeking a superior coffee experience in the heart of Paris.

Le Consulat

Le Consulat stands as an iconic café in the heart of Montmartre, Paris. This historic establishment has been a fixture in the neighborhood for decades, witnessing the area's evolution while maintaining its timeless charm.

The café's rich history includes famous patrons such as Picasso, Van Gogh, Toulouse-Lautrec, and Monet. These artists frequented Le Consulat, drawn by its delicious food and captivating views of Paris.

Today, Le Consulat continues to attract both locals and tourists. Its picturesque exterior, adorned with flower boxes and classic French bistro chairs, makes it a popular spot for photographers and Instagram enthusiasts.

The café operates daily from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm. Its menu offers a range of appetizers priced between 8 and 17 Euros, while main courses cost 13 to 23 Euros. Visitors can also enjoy a selection of crepes for 6 Euros each.

Le Consulat provides a unique opportunity to experience a piece of Parisian history. Guests can savor their coffee and meals in the same space once frequented by some of the world's most renowned artists.

Coutume Café

Coutume Café is a pioneer in Paris's specialty coffee scene. Founded by Australian Tom Clark, it has played a significant role in transforming the city's coffee culture since its opening in 2011.

Located in the 7th arrondissement, Coutume offers a spacious setting for coffee enthusiasts. The café sources its beans from its roastery on the right bank of Paris, ensuring quality and freshness.

Coutume's approach to coffee is near-scientific, with meticulous attention to roasting and brewing techniques. This dedication has earned them a reputation as one of the best coffee spots in the French capital.

The café's industrial-chic design creates a modern atmosphere, appealing to both locals and tourists. Coutume has expanded its presence beyond its original location, opening additional venues in Paris and even reaching as far as Bordeaux.

Visitors to Coutume can expect expertly crafted espresso-based drinks and a variety of brewing methods. The café also offers a selection of food items, making it a popular choice for brunch or light meals.

Shakespeare and Company Café

Shakespeare and Company Café sits across from Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris's historic Latin Quarter. This charming spot combines a bookstore and café, offering a unique literary atmosphere.

The café opened in 2015, fulfilling a long-held vision of Shakespeare and Company's founder, George Whitman. It quickly became a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Visitors can enjoy a selection of coffee, tea, and pastries while browsing books or soaking in the ambiance. The café's outdoor seating area provides picturesque views of the Seine and Notre Dame.

Though not baking on-site, Shakespeare and Company Café serves a curated selection of quality pastries and sandwiches. Their coffee menu features both classic and specialty drinks.

The café's interior decor reflects its bookish roots, with shelves of books and literary-themed artwork adorning the walls. This creates a cozy, intellectual environment perfect for reading or quiet conversation.

Shakespeare and Company Café has become a cultural landmark, attracting book lovers and coffee enthusiasts from around the world. It offers a quintessentially Parisian experience with an Anglo-American twist.

FRENCH SONG OF THE WEEK
Julien Doré - Sublime & Silence

"Sublime & Silence" is a captivating song by the talented French artist Julien Doré. Known for his mesmerizing voice and the sensitivity of his piano playing, Doré creates a poignant atmosphere that draws listeners in from the first note. The song is a beautiful blend of delicate melodies and profound lyrics, showcasing Doré's ability to convey deep emotion through both his vocal delivery and his skillful piano accompaniment.

Join Me for an Unforgettable Paris Tour!

You’re invited to explore Paris's enchanting streets (and parks) with me! Whether you're a cycling fan or prefer a leisurely stroll, an adventure awaits you. For an exciting bike tour, head to BikeAboutTours.com (message me if you want me to guide you—we have several guides at BAT). If a private walking tour is more your style, visit ParisLoveAffairTours.com for a personalized experience.