How to Order Coffee in Paris (Without Sounding Like a Tourist)

Ordering coffee in Paris is, for many, a daily pleasure—unless you don’t know the local etiquette. Unlike in some countries where coffee culture is centered around takeaway coffee, Parisian cafés are places to sit, relax, and enjoy your drink at a leisurely pace. It’s the Parisian way! 

If you want to avoid language mistakes and order coffee like a true local, here’s what you need to know about ordering coffee in Paris.

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Know your French coffee varieties 

Unlike large coffee chains where you can customise every detail, Parisian cafés generally have a more traditional menu. Here are the basics:

Un café – This is an espresso. If you order just “un café,” expect a small, strong shot of coffee.

Un café allongé – Similar to an Americano, this is an espresso with extra hot water added.

Un café crème – The closest thing to a cappuccino, this is an espresso with steamed milk and a bit of foam. It’s usually larger than a standard espresso.

Un noisette – An espresso with a splash of milk (similar to a macchiato).

Un café au lait – Not commonly found in Parisian cafés, but if you order it, it’s usually served in a larger cup.

Un cappuccino – While only listed on some menus, cappuccinos in France often come with whipped cream instead of foamed milk—so be prepared!

Cafe glace – iced coffee. Less common to see on French menus, but refreshing in warm weather! 

A handy tip? Avoid ordering flavoured or overly customised coffees—Parisians prefer simple, quality coffee.

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The polite way to order coffee in Paris

When ordering coffee in Paris, politeness is key. Always start with “Bonjour” (Good morning) or “Bonsoir” (Good evening), depending on the time of day. Then, you can say:

“Un café, s’il vous plaît” (An espresso, please)

“Un café crème, s’il vous plaît” (A café crème, please)

If you want to take your coffee to go (which is less common but possible), you can ask:

“À emporter, s’il vous plaît” (To take away, please)

Keep in mind that most Parisians prefer to enjoy their coffee at the café rather than rushing off with a paper cup.

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Where and how to drink your coffee

Parisian cafés have two main seating options, which can affect the price:

Standing at the bar (au comptoir) – The cheapest option. If you just need a quick espresso, stand at the counter and drink it there like many locals do.

Sitting at a table – More expensive, especially if you sit outside (en terrasse). In many cafés, table service is expected, so a waiter will come to take your order. If you plan to linger, enjoy the slow pace—there’s no rush to leave once your coffee is served.

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When to drink which coffee in Paris

Parisians usually drink specific coffees according to the time of day. Eager to enjoy your caffeine fix like a local? Here’s a standard schedule: 

Morning: Many Parisians start their day with a café crème – and a croissant of course! 

Afternoon: A simple espresso is more common after lunch. Ordering a milky coffee like a café crème in the afternoon is rare (but not completely unheard of).

After dinner: The French often finish their meal with an espresso, but never a large coffee. 

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How to pay for your coffee

Unlike in some places where you pay upfront, in Paris, you usually settle the bill at the end. If you’re seated, simply signal for the check by saying “L’addition, s’il vous plaît.” If you’re at the bar, you’ll likely pay right after ordering.

Parisian cafes don’t generally offer free refills, so expect to pay for each coffee individually. 

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What is your favourite coffee in Paris?

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