If you’re planning a trip to Paris, you may have heard about the charming outdoor cafes that line the city’s streets. But what are these cafes called? The answer is simple: they’re called “cafés terrasses.”
A “café terrasse” is a cafe with an outdoor seating area, typically on a sidewalk or plaza. These cafes are a staple of Parisian culture and offer visitors the opportunity to relax and enjoy the beauty of the city while sipping on a cup of coffee or glass of wine.
One of the most iconic things about Parisian cafés terrasses is their distinctive chairs. These chairs are typically made of metal and have a woven pattern on the seat and backrest. They come in a variety of colors, but the most common are green and red.
In addition to coffee and wine, these cafes often serve light meals such as croissants, sandwiches, and salads. They’re also great places to people-watch and soak up the vibrant energy of Paris.
If you’re looking for a particularly picturesque café terrasse, there are several areas in Paris that are known for their outdoor cafes. The Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood on the Left Bank is particularly famous for its charming cafes. The Marais neighborhood is another great spot to find outdoor seating.
Overall, if you want to experience true Parisian culture, visiting a café terrasse should be at the top of your list. So grab a seat outside, order yourself something delicious, and enjoy all that this beautiful city has to offer!
Tips for Enjoying Cafés Terrasses in Paris
Here are some tips for making the most out of your café terrasse experience:
1. Arrive early or late
Café terrasses can get quite crowded during peak hours (especially lunchtime), so try to arrive either before or after these times to avoid the crowds.
2. Bring cash
Many cafes don’t accept credit cards, so be sure to bring some euros with you.
3. Dress appropriately
Parisians are known for their fashion sense, so try to dress nicely when visiting a café terrasse. Avoid wearing shorts or athletic wear.
4. People-watch
One of the best things about café terrasses is the opportunity to people-watch. Take some time to observe the locals and soak up the vibrant energy of Paris.
The History of Cafés Terrasses in Paris
Café terrasses have been a part of Parisian culture since at least the 19th century. They first became popular in the 1800s when cafes began to open on sidewalks and plazas throughout the city.
During this time, Paris was undergoing a period of rapid modernization and urbanization. The construction of new boulevards and public spaces created opportunities for outdoor seating areas.
Today, café terrasses continue to be an important part of Parisian culture and attract visitors from all over the world. Whether you’re looking for a quick cup of coffee or a leisurely meal, there’s nothing quite like sitting outside at a café terrasse and enjoying all that this beautiful city has to offer.