8 Best Breakfast Spots in Paris for Morning People

As a breakfast enthusiast, I've found Paris's top morning spots that'll make getting up early worth it! From the historic Café De Flore, where Sartre sipped his coffee, to the Melbourne-inspired Holybelly 5, you'll discover incredible options across the city. My favorites include Du Pain Et Des Idées's heavenly pastries, Rose Bakery's organic treats, and Angelina's legendary hot chocolate. For the best experience, arrive before 9 AM – and there's so much more to these magical morning venues.

The Classic Charm of Café De Flore

Nestled in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés since 1887, Café de Flore stands as one of Paris's most iconic breakfast destinations. The historic café has served as a cherished meeting point for intellectuals, artists, and writers, including Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir, who helped cement its reputation as a cultural landmark in the City of Light.

Beyond its storied past, Café de Flore continues to captivate visitors with its authentic Art Deco interior, traditional rattan chairs, and classic French breakfast service. The combination of perfectly crafted croissants, rich coffee, and the unmistakable ambiance of a true Parisian institution makes it an essential stop for anyone seeking to experience the city's breakfast culture at its finest.

Quick Facts:

• Hours: Opens daily at 7:30 AM
• Price Range: €20-40 per person for breakfast
• Reservation Policy: No reservations accepted
• Best Time to Visit: Weekdays before 9 AM
• Dress Code: Smart casual
• Payment Methods: Cash and major credit cards
• Languages: French and English menus available

The Classic Breakfast Experience

The signature petit déjeuner at Café de Flore features freshly baked croissants, pain au chocolat, and crusty baguettes served with house-made preserves. The hot chocolate, prepared using a century-old recipe, remains one of the café's most celebrated offerings. Served in silver pots and accompanied by a separate vessel of hot milk, it epitomizes the refined French breakfast tradition. Insider tip: Request a table in the heated outdoor terrace for prime people-watching while enjoying protection from the elements.

The Historic Interior

The café's ground floor maintains its original 1920s décor, complete with red leather banquettes, mirrored walls, and white tablecloths. The brass fixtures and mahogany paneling create an atmosphere that transports visitors to Paris's golden age. Location: 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris. Insider tip: The upstairs section often has shorter wait times and offers a more intimate dining experience.

Pro Tips:

To truly experience Café de Flore at its most authentic, arrive just as it opens at 7:30 AM. This timing not only helps avoid the tourist crowds but also allows you to observe local Parisians starting their day with their morning ritual. The light at this hour is particularly beautiful for photographs, especially if you secure a corner table by the window. For the best service, learn a few basic French phrases and always begin with "Bonjour" when addressing the staff.

Practical Advice:

Be prepared for a characteristically Parisian service style, which may seem unhurried by international standards. Embrace this as part of the authentic experience rather than viewing it as slow service. During peak tourist season (June-August), expect to wait 15-30 minutes for a table, particularly during weekend brunch hours. Consider visiting during shoulder season (March-May or September-November) for a more relaxed experience while still enjoying pleasant outdoor seating weather.

Fresh Baked Heaven at Du Pain Et Des Idées

Nestled in the vibrant 10th arrondissement, Du Pain et des Idées stands as a proof of Paris's celebrated baking tradition. This historic bakery, housed in a building dating back to 1875, has been transformed by master baker Christophe Vasseur into one of the city's most revered artisanal boulangeries since 2002.

The bakery's reputation for extraordinary pastries and bread draws both locals and tourists who queue patiently each morning for their signature escargots (spiral pastries) and pain des amis (friendship bread). The intoxicating aroma of fresh-baked goods wafting through the ornately decorated 19th-century interior, complete with hand-painted ceiling murals, creates an authentic Parisian breakfast experience that transcends mere sustenance.

Quick Facts:

• Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Closed weekends)
• Price Range: €1.20 – €6.50 per item
• Best Time to Visit: 7:30-8:30 AM for freshest selection
• Payment: Cash and cards accepted
• Seating: Limited outdoor benches only
• Special Dietary: Some vegan options available
• Languages: Basic English spoken

Signature Items:

The escargot aux pistaches (pistachio spiral) stands as the bakery's crown jewel, featuring layers of flaky pastry filled with pistachio cream and dark chocolate chips. The pain des amis, a dense, dark sourdough bread with a thick crust, represents their masterpiece in traditional bread-making. Their croissants au beurre, made with premium French butter, consistently rank among Paris's finest.

Location and Logistics:

Located at 34 Rue Yves Toudic, the bakery sits near the Canal Saint-Martin. The closest Metro stations are Jacques Bonsergent (Line 5) and République (Lines 3, 5, 8, 9, 11). While the space inside is small, the street outside offers a perfect spot for enjoying your fresh pastries while watching local Parisians go about their morning routines.

Pro Tips:

Arrive before 9:00 AM to secure the full selection of pastries, as popular items sell out quickly. Consider calling ahead for large orders, especially their pain des amis, which often sells out by mid-morning. The chocolate-pistachio escargot tastes best when slightly warm, so request one that's fresh from the oven if possible.

Practical Advice:

During peak tourist season (June-August), expect longer queues, particularly on weekday mornings. Combat this by arriving right at opening time or during the mid-morning lull around 10:30 AM. Don't be deterred by a line – it moves quickly, and the staff maintains efficiency while still providing attentive service. While they don't offer seating inside, the Canal Saint-Martin is just a two-minute walk away, providing an ideal spot to enjoy your breakfast with a quintessentially Parisian view.

Modern Brunch at Holybelly 5

Nestled in the vibrant 10th arrondissement, Holybelly 5 has revolutionized the Parisian breakfast scene by introducing Melbourne-style brunch culture to the City of Light. This bustling establishment, opened by Sarah Mouchot and Nico Alary in 2013, offers a perfect fusion of French sophistication and international breakfast innovations.

The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in every detail, from their house-roasted coffee to their locally sourced ingredients. Unlike traditional Parisian cafés that typically serve simple continental breakfasts, Holybelly 5 presents a dynamic menu that changes monthly, featuring creative dishes that have earned it a loyal following among locals and tourists alike.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €15-25 per main dish
• Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays)
• Reservation Policy: No reservations accepted
• Wait Times: 30-45 minutes during peak hours
• Dietary Options: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available
• Payment: Cards accepted, including international

The Space and Atmosphere:

Holybelly 5 occupies a bright, modern space with an open kitchen concept, allowing diners to watch their meals being prepared. The interior features a minimalist design with industrial touches, comfortable seating, and large windows that flood the space with natural light. At 30 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Martin, the location is easily accessible from several metro stations. Insider tip: The corner tables by the windows offer the best people-watching opportunities while enjoying your meal.

The Menu:

The frequently changing menu showcases creative takes on breakfast classics, with standout dishes like their signature stack of fluffy pancakes with bourbon butter and seasonal savory plates featuring perfectly cooked eggs. Their coffee program, utilizing beans from celebrated roasters, rivals the best specialty coffee shops in Paris. Unique feature: They make their own hot sauce, available for purchase, which has developed a cult following among regulars.

Pro Tips:

Arrive before 9:30 AM to minimize wait times, especially on weekends. The sweet spot for dining is between 2:00 PM and 3:30 PM when the lunch rush has subsided but the kitchen is still in full swing. For solo diners, the bar seating offers a prime spot to watch the baristas work their magic and often results in faster seating.

Practical Advice:

Consider visiting on weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds, and have a backup plan nearby as queues can be lengthy during peak times. Keep in mind that the kitchen stops taking orders 30 minutes before closing. The restaurant maintains a strict "no modifications" policy on certain dishes to guarantee quality and efficiency, so check the menu carefully before ordering. English-speaking staff make the experience accessible for international visitors, but learning a few basic French phrases is always appreciated.

Organic Delights at Rose Bakery

Tucked away in the 9th arrondissement, Rose Bakery stands as a pioneer of organic, farm-to-table dining in Paris. Founded by Rose Carrarini and her husband Jean-Charles in 2002, this Anglo-French establishment revolutionized the Parisian breakfast scene by introducing wholesome, organic ingredients when most cafés were still serving simple croissants and coffee.

The bakery's minimalist aesthetic, with its exposed brick walls and industrial-chic furnishings, creates an inviting atmosphere that draws both locals and tourists seeking a healthier alternative to traditional French breakfast fare. Their commitment to seasonal ingredients and made-from-scratch dishes has earned them a devoted following and inspired numerous imitators throughout the city.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €15-30 per person
• Peak Hours: 8:30-10:30 AM weekdays, 10:00 AM-1:00 PM weekends
• Reservations: Not accepted, expect queues on weekends
• Dietary Options: Extensive vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices
• Payment Methods: Cash and major credit cards
• Languages: English-speaking staff available

Signature Dishes:

The scone platter (€12) features freshly baked varieties ranging from classic plain to seasonal fruit, served with house-made preserves and cultured butter. The kitchen prepares these in small batches throughout the morning, ensuring warm, fresh servings. Insider tip: Request "baker's choice" for access to experimental flavors not listed on the menu.

The carrot cake (€8) has achieved legendary status among Parisian food enthusiasts. Unlike traditional versions, Rose's interpretation uses minimal sugar, allowing the natural sweetness of organic carrots to shine through. The cream cheese frosting incorporates locally sourced chèvre for a subtle tangy finish.

Their organic scrambled eggs (€14) exemplify simple perfection, sourced from a family farm outside Paris and served with sourdough toast and optional sides like roasted mushrooms or house-cured salmon. Insider tip: The kitchen will prepare them "extra slow" upon request, resulting in exceptionally creamy texture.

Pro Tips:

Arrive before 9:00 AM on weekdays to secure a table without waiting and to enjoy the freshest baked goods. The back room offers the best natural lighting for food photography, but these tables are typically reserved for parties of three or more. Consider taking pastries to-go and enjoying them in the nearby Square d'Anvers for a more relaxed experience during peak hours.

Practical Advice:

While Rose Bakery accepts credit cards, having cash on hand can expedite payment during busy periods. The establishment's popularity means table turnover is encouraged, so plan for a 45-minute dining window during peak times. Their take-away counter offers most menu items, making it an excellent option for those seeking a quick breakfast to enjoy in one of the neighboring parks or en route to nearby attractions like the Musée Grevin or the Grands Boulevards shopping district.

Traditional Fare at Angelina Paris

Nestled in the heart of Paris on Rue de Rivoli, Angelina has been serving sumptuous breakfasts to Parisians and visitors alike since 1903. This historic tearoom, once frequented by Coco Chanel and Marcel Proust, maintains its reputation as one of the city's most elegant breakfast destinations, combining Belle Époque architecture with classic French morning fare.

Beyond its ornate interior featuring gilded mirrors and crystal chandeliers, Angelina offers an authentic Parisian breakfast experience that transcends typical café offerings. The establishment's signature hot chocolate (chocolat chaud L'Africain) and Mont Blanc pastry have become legendary, while their traditional breakfast menu showcases the finest French viennoiseries and egg dishes prepared with meticulous attention to detail.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €25-45 per person for breakfast
• Hours: Opens daily at 8:30 AM
• Reservation Status: Recommended, especially on weekends
• Wait Times: 30-60 minutes without reservation
• Dress Code: Smart casual
• Dietary Options: Vegetarian available, limited gluten-free choices
• Languages: Menus in French and English
• Payment: All major credit cards accepted

The Classic Angelina Breakfast (Le Petit Déjeuner Angelina) stands as the cornerstone of their morning offerings. At €32, this traditional spread includes their famous hot chocolate, freshly squeezed orange juice, mini viennoiseries, bread with house-made preserves, and your choice of eggs. The true highlight lies in their croissants, which achieve the perfect balance of buttery layers and crisp exterior that defines superior French pastry.

Signature Hot Chocolate Experience: L'Africain deserves its own mention, served in a silver pitcher alongside a bowl of whipped cream. This intensely rich beverage combines three types of African cocoa, creating a thick, almost pudding-like consistency that's become the tearoom's trademark. Insider tip: Order it with a glass of water to cleanse your palate between sips.

Pro Tips:

Arrive at opening time (8:30 AM) to avoid the longest queues and secure the best tables in the main salon. For the most authentic experience, request a table in the original dining room rather than the modern extension. Photographs are best taken in the morning when natural light streams through the historic windows, illuminating the Belle Époque details.

Practical Advice:

The main location at 226 Rue de Rivoli offers the most authentic experience, but during peak tourist season, consider visiting their Versailles or Galleries Lafayette branches for shorter wait times. Make reservations at least three days in advance through their website, and specify any dietary requirements when booking. While the experience isn't budget-friendly, the combination of historic ambiance and culinary excellence makes it a worthwhile splurge for a memorable Parisian breakfast.

Local Favorite: Treize Bakery

Tucked away in the charming 7th arrondissement, Treize Bakery stands as a delightful fusion of American Southern comfort and French culinary excellence. Founded by South Carolina native Laurel Sanderson, this beloved establishment has become a sanctuary for both locals and tourists seeking a unique breakfast experience that bridges two distinct culinary traditions.

What sets Treize apart is its ability to harmoniously blend classic American breakfast staples with French sophistication. From buttery biscuits that rival those found in Charleston to perfectly executed croque madames, the bakery offers a menu that satisfies both traditional French breakfast enthusiasts and those craving a taste of the American South.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €15-30 per person
• Reservation: Recommended for weekends, especially brunch
• Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Dietary Options: Vegetarian-friendly, gluten-free options available
• Payment: Credit cards accepted, no checks
• Busiest Times: Saturday and Sunday, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM

The Star Attractions

The signature breakfast at Treize centers around their legendary buttermilk biscuits, served with housemade jam or as part of their indulgent breakfast platters. These Southern-style biscuits have earned a cult following among Parisians, who often line up before opening hours to secure their share. Located at 5 Rue de Medicis, the bakery's cozy interior features vintage-inspired decor and an open kitchen where you can watch the bakers at work. Insider tip: Request a table by the window for prime people-watching opportunities overlooking the Luxembourg Gardens.

Pro Tips

Visit during weekday mornings, particularly Wednesday or Thursday, for the most relaxed dining experience. The kitchen is most accommodating to special requests during these quieter periods, and you're more likely to engage in conversation with the friendly staff, including owner Laurel, who often shares stories about the inspiration behind her unique menu items. For the best photography opportunities, arrive just as they open when the morning light streams through the windows and the pastries are freshly displayed.

Practical Advice

While Treize welcomes walk-ins, making a reservation is strongly recommended, especially for groups larger than two. The bakery's proximity to the Luxembourg Gardens makes it an ideal starting point for a day of exploring the Left Bank. Consider ordering extra biscuits to go – they make perfect picnic additions for the gardens. Remember that portion sizes are generous by Parisian standards, so consider sharing plates if you want to sample multiple items from the menu.

Hidden Gem: Fragments in Le Marais

Tucked away in the heart of Le Marais, Fragments stands as an indication of Paris's evolving coffee and breakfast culture. This intimate café, founded by passionate barista Youssef Louanjli, has transformed a historic building into a morning sanctuary where traditional French breakfast meets contemporary café culture. The exposed stone walls and wooden beam ceilings create an atmosphere that perfectly balances Parisian heritage with modern minimalist design.

What sets Fragments apart from the city's countless cafés is its commitment to both coffee excellence and innovative breakfast offerings. While most Parisian cafés stick to the classic croissant-and-coffee combo, Fragments delivers an expanded menu that includes everything from perfectly executed avocado toast to house-made granola with seasonal fruits, all while maintaining the highest standards of coffee craftsmanship.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €8-20 for breakfast items, €3.50-5.50 for coffee
• Peak Hours: 8:30-10:30 AM on weekdays, 10 AM-1 PM weekends
• Reservation Policy: No reservations accepted
• Dietary Options: Vegetarian-friendly, gluten-free options available
• Payment Methods: Cards accepted, contactless preferred
• Languages: English-speaking staff available

The Breakfast Experience

The star of Fragments' breakfast menu is their signature sourdough toast topped with local seasonal ingredients. Their avocado toast (€12) elevates the café standard with house-pickled radishes and local microgreens. The kitchen sources bread daily from acclaimed bakery Du Pain et des Idées, making sure of peak freshness and quality. Insider tip: Request the "baker's special" – an off-menu toast combination that changes weekly based on seasonal ingredients.

Coffee Program

Fragments sources beans from leading European roasters and operates a rotating selection that changes monthly. Their flat white (€4.50) has earned a reputation as one of the best in Paris, thanks to their precise temperature control and expert baristas. The café uses a custom La Marzocco machine, and baristas are happy to discuss their brewing methods with interested customers.

Pro Tips:

Arrive before 9 AM on weekdays to secure one of the coveted window seats overlooking Rue Charlot. The morning light through the historic windows creates perfect photo opportunities, particularly during golden hour. For weekend visits, the sweet spot is arriving at 9:45 AM – just before the major rush but late enough that the kitchen is in full swing.

Practical Advice:

Fragments doesn't offer table service – orders are placed at the counter and delivered to your table. While this might seem unusual for Paris, it's part of the café's casual, contemporary atmosphere. During peak hours, consider taking your breakfast to the nearby Square du Temple if indoor seating is full. Keep in mind that the space is relatively small, seating only 24 guests, and the café maintains a strict no-laptop policy during weekend brunch hours to make sure of table turnover.

Rooftop Views at Terrass Hotel

Perched on the 7th floor of the elegant Terrass Hotel in Montmartre, the rooftop restaurant offers one of Paris's most breathtaking breakfast experiences. As the morning sun bathes the city in golden light, diners can savor fresh pastries and coffee while gazing across the iconic Parisian skyline, from the Eiffel Tower to Sacré-Cœur.

The restaurant combines contemporary French cuisine with panoramic views that make it worth the early morning journey to the 18th arrondissement. The breakfast service transforms an ordinary morning meal into a memorable experience, where the carefully curated menu matches the spectacular setting of this hidden gem above the city's rooftops.

Quick Facts:

• Hours: Breakfast served 7:00 AM – 10:30 AM daily
• Price Range: €25-45 per person for breakfast
• Reservation Required: Yes, especially for window seats
• Dress Code: Smart casual
• Indoor/Outdoor Seating: Both available (weather permitting)
• Accessibility: Elevator access available
• Languages: English-speaking staff available

The Breakfast Experience:

The breakfast menu features both traditional French and international options, from freshly baked viennoiseries to organic eggs prepared to order. The signature "Petit Déjeuner Terrass" includes a hot beverage, fresh juice, pastry basket, eggs of choice, and seasonal fruit plate. Located at 12-14 Rue Joseph de Maistre, the venue is accessible via Metro stations Blanche or Place de Clichy. Most visitors don't know that requesting a table on the western side offers the best morning light for photos while avoiding direct sun glare.

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate experience, arrive just as the restaurant opens at 7:00 AM, when the morning light is most dramatic and the terrace is quietest. Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded than weekends, and booking at least two weeks in advance is recommended during peak tourist season (June-September). Photography enthusiasts should bring a wide-angle lens to capture the full panoramic view.

Practical Advice:

While the rooftop offers stunning views year-round, weather conditions can affect the outdoor seating availability. During colder months (November-March), request a window table in the indoor section when booking. Consider combining your breakfast visit with a morning walk through Montmartre's artistic streets, as the neighborhood is particularly charming and uncrowded in the early hours.