There’s something a bit magical about sitting in the heart of Paris, coffee in hand, surrounded by the same walls that once inspired legends like Ernest Hemingway.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés, with its classic Left Bank charm, overflows with cafés that have welcomed writers, artists, and dreamers for generations. If you’re hoping to soak up the literary spirit of the Lost Generation, these five iconic cafés are where I’d start my own Paris story.
I spent lazy afternoons tucked into cozy corners and sunlit terraces, people-watching, scribbling in a notebook, and—if I’m honest—pretending to be a famous writer chasing inspiration.
Each café pulses with its own energy, shaped by decades of travelers and tales. Whether you crave a quiet moment or dream of joining Paris’s creative past, these spots invite you to slow down and imagine yourself as one of the city’s storied thinkers.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés: Paris’s Legendary Café Scene
Cafés in Saint-Germain-des-Prés aren’t just about coffee. I found them brimming with history and culture.
Names like Hemingway and Stein echo through these walls, and even now, the spirit of those creative minds lingers at every table and terrace.
History of the Left Bank’s Café Culture
Saint-Germain-des-Prés sits on the Left Bank of the Seine. Its cafés have drawn thinkers, writers, and artists since the late 1800s.
Back then, people crowded into places like Les Deux Magots or Café de Flore to talk about art, literature, and politics.
Many of these cafés opened in the 19th century and quickly built a reputation for their intellectual atmosphere.
The neighborhood grew famous after World War I, when Americans—the Lost Generation—started spending time here. I noticed how these places often feel unchanged, with marble tables and waiters in crisp aprons, holding onto a slice of old Paris.
Key Points:
- Left Bank means the south side of the Seine.
- Saint-Germain and the Latin Quarter buzz with creative energy.
- These cafés became world famous for their community of artists and writers.
Famous Literary Patrons and Artists
Sitting under green awnings in Saint-Germain, I found it easy to imagine Ernest Hemingway jotting down notes for his next story.
Hemingway loved Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore, along with writers like F. Scott Fitzgerald and James Joyce. I felt a tiny thrill sliding into a seat they might’ve used a hundred years ago.
It wasn’t just men filling these cafés. Gertrude Stein stood out as a major figure here, hosting gatherings for painters and poets and shaping the local scene.
Sylvia Beach, who ran the famous Shakespeare and Company bookstore nearby, often joined in, making these cafés the heart of literary Paris.
Seeing their photos on the walls makes these places feel alive with memories.
Notable Patrons:
- Ernest Hemingway
- Gertrude Stein
- F. Scott Fitzgerald
- James Joyce
- Sylvia Beach
What Makes a Café ‘Iconic’ in Paris?
Not every café in Paris feels “iconic” to me. The real legends—like Les Deux Magots—share a few special qualities.
They’re old, usually dating from the 1800s or early 1900s, and still look and feel mostly the same.
Their tables fill with locals and travelers all day, blending past and present in the hum of conversation.
You’ll spot these cafés in books and old photos, with names linked to world-famous writers or painters.
They’re woven into the city’s soul, especially on the Left Bank. In these spots, it’s normal to linger for hours, thinking, people-watching, or writing—even if all you order is a tiny espresso.
That relaxed but buzzing energy keeps drawing me back, table after table.
Café de Flore: Timeless Parisian Elegance
Café de Flore stands on a busy corner of boulevard Saint-Germain, pulling in locals, travelers, and dreamers alike.
From its art deco interior to the crowd on its famous terrace, this café serves more than coffee—it’s a window into the city’s history, culture, and literary life.
Savoring Coffee and Inspiration
When I sat down at Café de Flore, I instantly felt the classic Paris vibe. The waiters, in crisp black and white uniforms, served coffee with a flair you only find in Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
My favorite order? A simple café crème, smooth and rich, in heavy porcelain cups. A fresh croissant on the side made breakfast feel special.
The menu sticks to Parisian classics: omelets, cheese plates, tartines, and—if you’re feeling fancy—a cold glass of champagne.
| Menu Highlights | Description |
|---|---|
| Café crème | Creamy coffee, classic taste |
| Croissant | Flaky, buttery pastry |
| Omelette Flore | Eggs, ham, cheese—simple |
| Cheese plate | Selection of French cheeses |
With each sip of coffee, I watched people pass by—artists, tourists, and book-lovers, each lost in their own stories.
The atmosphere buzzed with quiet chatter and the clink of cups. Daydreaming that Hemingway might stroll in seemed almost natural.
Historic Encounters and Literary Gossip
Café de Flore has drawn writers, philosophers, and celebrities since the 1880s.
The tables here have heard the voices of the Lost Generation—Ernest Hemingway, Jean-Paul Sartre, and Simone de Beauvoir all showed up as regulars.
I imagined the literary gossip that once filled these walls. Heated debates about art, politics, and life must have bounced off the mirrors.
Some say Picasso sketched here. Others claim Hemingway wrote parts of his novels while watching the world go by.
The café’s history feels alive, especially if you love books or Parisian culture.
It’s wild to think about all the world-changing ideas that might’ve started at these tables.
Café de Flore’s Role Today
Now, Café de Flore is both a hotspot for travelers and a beloved local institution.
It’s usually busy, with a steady line of people waiting for a table on the terrace or inside near the iconic red booths.
I saw guests ranging from Parisian regulars reading newspapers to visitors snapping photos and pretending, like me, to be Hemingway for the afternoon.
The service moves quickly, but nobody rushes you out. It’s the kind of place where you can linger with a book or just people-watch for an hour.
If you’re planning a food tour of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Café de Flore isn’t just about the best food or coffee—it’s about sitting in a place that feels frozen in time but always alive with new stories.
Just don’t forget to look up from your coffee now and then; you never know who might be sitting beside you.
Les Deux Magots: Where Legends Still Linger
There’s nothing quite like sitting at Les Deux Magots, watching the life of Saint-Germain-des-Prés unfold around me.
This café has been a gathering place for writers, artists, and dreamers for over a century. Its historic charm and Parisian spirit draw everyone from tourists to locals.
Hemingway’s Favorite Table
When I stepped into Les Deux Magots, I couldn’t help but imagine Ernest Hemingway scribbling away at one of the marble-topped tables.
He was a regular here in the 1920s, and people say he had his “favorite spot” near the window, perfect for people-watching and making notes in his journal.
The café sits right on Place Saint-Germain-des-Prés, close to the Jardin du Luxembourg and a short walk from the Metro.
The atmosphere still feels much as it must have in Hemingway’s day—full of students, artists, and writers. That legendary vibe is part of what makes sitting here so inspiring.
You don’t have to be a famous author to enjoy it, but being here makes you want to write.
Artists’ Meetings and Bold Ideas
Les Deux Magots meant more than just coffee; it brought together some of the brightest minds of the 20th century.
Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir showed up as regulars, discussing philosophy for hours.
Pablo Picasso also came here, sometimes bringing along artist friends or lovers.
If the walls could talk, they’d share stories of bold new ideas and heated debates over art.
Often, when I sat at my table, I saw people still deep in conversation, creative thoughts flying as they sipped their drinks.
Even today, it feels easy to meet someone interesting or just soak up the bohemian energy.
The crowd is a mix of locals, artists, and curious travelers, all drawn in by the café’s creative past and lively present.
Must-Try Treats and Drinks
Les Deux Magots may be famous for its history, but it also stands out among Paris restaurants for its classic French menu.
I ordered a fresh croissant and a café crème the first time I visited.
The brunch—which runs from 11:00 am to 3:30 pm on weekends—is popular for good reason, with eggs, fresh bread, fruit, and even Champagne.
Some must-tries include:
- Hot chocolate (chocolat chaud)—thick, rich, and perfect on a cool day
- Tarte Tatin—a sweet apple tart that’s as pretty as it is delicious
- French onion soup—warm, comforting, and full of flavor
Prices are on the higher side, but you pay for the experience as much as the food.
I always leave feeling like I’ve tasted a bit of Parisian history with every bite.
Brasserie Lipp & Literary Spirits: Dining With History
Brasserie Lipp stands as a cornerstone of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, deeply connected to Paris’s literary past and its classic French cuisine.
Dining here feels like stepping into a living piece of history, surrounded by dishes and décor that haven’t changed much in over a century.
Steak and Fries: The Classic Meal
Few meals say “Paris brasserie” like steak-frites.
At Brasserie Lipp, the steak arrives perfectly cooked—juicy, just the right amount of pink, and served with a generous pile of crisp fries.
Ordering “un steak-frites” (French for steak and fries) is both a tradition and a safe bet for a satisfying meal.
What stands out to me is the simplicity. The menu doesn’t chase trends.
It honors classics like choucroute garnie or their famous fish soup. Everything feels timeless, from the first bite of steak to the crusty table bread.
I get why this spot attracted Hemingway and so many other writers—sometimes, straightforward food in a legendary setting is all you need.
A quick tip: the traditional desserts, especially tarte Tatin or mille-feuille, are worth saving room for.
The service is prompt and formal, so expect a genuine Paris restaurant experience.
Belle Époque Ambiance
Stepping into Brasserie Lipp feels a bit like time travel.
The Belle Époque decor is impossible to ignore: stained-glass ceilings, polished mirrors, and vintage tiled floors.
The building hasn’t changed much since 1880, so I could easily imagine Hemingway scribbling notes or poets debating at corner tables.
The details—white tablecloths, wood paneling, waiters in black vests—set the mood.
Every visit feels like joining a parade of famous guests from the past.
The bustling noise, clink of glasses, and air thick with stories make it clear why Lipp is a beloved Paris restaurant.
Even when the place is packed (and it usually is), there’s always a certain ease—nobody rushes you, and conversation flows just as freely as the wine.
What strikes me most is how Brasserie Lipp still embodies the spirit of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, keeping the traditions of the literary crowd alive.
Other Notable Brasseries Near Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Saint-Germain-des-Prés sits surrounded by legendary cafés and brasseries, each with its own story. Right across from Brasserie Lipp, you’ll spot Café de Flore—Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir used to meet there all the time.
Next door, you’ll find Les Deux Magots, another haunt for writers. Its sunny terrace looks out over the boulevard, and honestly, it’s hard not to feel inspired sitting there.
If you’re wandering the neighborhood, here’s a quick list of nearby classics:
| Brasserie | Known For | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|
| Brasserie Lipp | Classic dishes, Belle Époque vibe | Elegant, lively |
| Café de Flore | Legendary artists and philosophers | Historic, chic |
| Les Deux Magots | Literary history, outdoor seating | Bustling, scenic |
Each place offers a slice of Parisian culture. My take? Try them at different times of day.
Have breakfast at Les Deux Magots, grab lunch at Brasserie Lipp, and sip coffee at Café de Flore. It’s honestly the best way to taste the literary heart of Paris, one meal at a time.
Hemingway’s Paris Haunts Beyond Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Paris holds Hemingway’s legacy close, but his favorite spots go well beyond the usual Saint-Germain-des-Prés cafés. When I wandered out of the 6th arrondissement’s comfort, I discovered places packed with history, creativity, and timeless Parisian charm.
Montparnasse’s Café Trail: Le Dôme, La Coupole, and More
Walking through Montparnasse, I felt like I’d stepped into a living snapshot of the 1920s Belle Époque. Hemingway wrote here, soaking up the energy from artists, writers, and travelers.
Le Dôme Café sits at the corner of Boulevard du Montparnasse, all glass windows and seafood platters. I could easily see why Hemingway and Picasso hung around for hours.
Right next door, La Coupole buzzes every night. Its Art Deco interior and mural-lined walls almost beg you to order coffee and linger.
Hemingway sometimes joined friends at La Rotonde and Le Select—both famous for their bohemian regulars. Cafés here aren’t just places to drink espresso; they’re gathering spots for creative souls.
Here’s a quick rundown of must-visit Montparnasse spots:
| Café | Notable Features | Famous Guests |
|---|---|---|
| Le Dôme | Seafood, glass façade | Hemingway, Picasso, Fitzgerald |
| La Coupole | Art Deco, huge brasserie | Hemingway, Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir |
| La Rotonde | Rotunda windows, cozy vibe | Modigliani, Picasso, Hemingway |
| Le Select | Classic terrace seating | Hemingway, Man Ray |
Following Hemingway’s Footsteps to the Ritz Hotel & Bar Hemingway
Whenever I came to Paris, I gravitated back to Place Vendôme and the Ritz. Hemingway loved this spot.
He even wrote about “liberating” the hotel bar during WWII. Bar Hemingway still carries his energy—with leather chairs, vintage photos, and honestly one of the best dry martinis I’ve tasted.
The bar isn’t huge, but it feels intimate and packed with stories. Bartenders share tales about Hemingway’s time here (sometimes with a sly grin).
From the polished wood counters to the old typewriter on display, every detail whispers literary legend. Want to toast Hemingway in style? Order a cocktail and just soak in the plush surroundings.
Must-Visit Nearby Streets: Rue Mouffetard, Rue de Fleurus, Rue Cardinal Lemoine
Some of Hemingway’s best writing days started with a stroll along Rue Mouffetard in the Latin Quarter. This market street bursts with cheese shops, bakeries, and colorful produce stalls.
Morning light streams through old facades, and I could picture Hemingway picking out bread before heading home.
Rue de Fleurus was home to Gertrude Stein. Hemingway often stopped by for encouragement and advice.
It’s a quiet street, almost hidden, but it’s soaked in artistic history.
Rue Cardinal Lemoine? That’s where Hemingway and Hadley rented their first Paris apartment.
I paused outside No. 74, imagining the young writer dashing to the metro or off to Gare de Lyon for a countryside escape. These streets aren’t tourist traps—they’re pieces of Hemingway’s Paris, and each has its own story.
Practical Tips for Enjoying Paris’s Iconic Cafés Like Hemingway
Sipping coffee or a Bloody Mary in Saint-Germain-des-Prés feels like slipping into a story—especially if you’ve got a few tricks up your sleeve. Mixing local tips with a bit of trial and error made my visits way more fun.
Navigating the Metro and Best Central Locations
Getting to Saint-Germain-des-Prés turned out to be a breeze, thanks to Paris’s Metro. Metro Line 4 drops you right in the middle of things at Saint-Germain-des-Prés station.
I used a Paris Visite pass for unlimited rides, which kept things simple.
From there, famous cafés like Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore are just a quick five-minute walk. The area’s well-marked, and every station has maps handy.
This neighborhood isn’t just perfect for cafés—it’s also great for wandering to bookstores and galleries.
If you’re new to the Metro, try the RATP app for updates. Trains run often, and I never waited more than five minutes, even at rush hour.
Prefer buses? Look for ones marked “Luxembourg” or “Saint-Germain”—they’ll get you close.
Ordering Classics: From Bloody Marys to Best Coffee
When I read about Hemingway’s love for strong drinks, I had to try a Bloody Mary at Les Deux Magots. They say it was one of the first places in Paris to serve it.
Most folks order café crème or espresso; locals sip coffee slowly and really savor it.
Here are a few classic orders that made me feel like I belonged:
| Drink | Order Like This | Best Café To Try |
|---|---|---|
| Espresso | “Un expresso, s’il vous plaît” | Café de Flore |
| Bloody Mary | “Un Bloody Mary, s’il vous plaît” | Les Deux Magots |
| Café Crème | “Un café crème, merci” | Brasserie Lipp |
Don’t expect big coffees—Parisian cups are tiny but pack a punch. For food, croissants and tartines rule the morning.
Waiters seemed to appreciate my attempts at French, even if I stumbled.
Café Etiquette and Local Insights
Parisians linger at cafés, and honestly, I loved taking my time too. Table service is the norm, so I waited to be seated and never felt rushed.
After ordering, my check never arrived until I asked for it with a simple “L’addition, s’il vous plaît.”
It’s totally normal to sit alone and read or jot down notes—Hemingway did it all the time. Locals spend hours people-watching with just one coffee.
I avoided laptops; here, it’s more about being present than being productive.
Tipping isn’t required, but it’s a nice gesture. I usually left a euro or two if the service felt friendly.
I picked up the most by blending in, keeping my voice low, and just soaking up the scene.
Nearby Sights: Luxembourg Gardens and the Pantheon
After my croissant and coffee, I’d always stretch my legs in the Jardin du Luxembourg. It’s just a ten-minute walk from most Saint-Germain cafés.
These sprawling gardens come alive with tree-lined paths, fountains, and even tennis courts. In spring, the flowers are honestly beautiful—worth a detour any day.
You’ll also find the Pantheon nearby, perched on a hill above the Latin Quarter. I flashed my museum pass and skipped the ticket line, which felt like a win.
The grand columns out front? Absolutely striking. I wandered through the crypts, which felt both impressive and a little eerie.
Both spots give you a peaceful break from the usual café noise. You can almost imagine Hemingway strolling here, too.
If you want to plan ahead, here’s a quick list of travel times from Saint-Germain-des-Prés:
- Luxembourg Gardens: 10 minutes on foot
- Pantheon: 15 minutes by foot or a quick bus ride
- Closest Metro station for both: Luxembourg (RER B)
