What Kind of Coffee Do They Drink in Paris?

By Alice Nichols

If you are a coffee lover planning to visit Paris, you might be curious about what kind of coffee they drink in the city of love. Paris is famous for its cafe culture, with charming cafes lining the streets and serving up delicious coffee.

But what makes Parisian coffee unique? Let’s dive into the world of Parisian coffee and discover what kind of coffee they drink.

What is Parisian Coffee?

Parisian coffee is typically a dark roast made from Arabica beans. The beans are roasted until they are almost black, creating a deep, rich flavor that is perfect for espresso-based drinks.

The French also prefer their coffee to be strong and full-bodied, with a thick crema on top. This crema is the layer of foam that sits on top of an espresso shot and indicates that the coffee has been brewed correctly.

The Classic French Coffee

The classic French coffee is an espresso, served in a small cup known as a demitasse. It’s strong and aromatic, with a slightly bitter taste that pairs perfectly with a croissant or pain au chocolat. A popular variation of this classic drink is the Cafe Au Lait, which consists of equal parts brewed coffee and hot milk.

The French Press

Another popular brewing method in Paris is the French press or Cafetière à piston in French. This method involves steeping ground coffee in water before plunging down a mesh filter to separate the grounds from the liquid. The resulting brew has a full-bodied flavor and retains more of the natural oils found in the beans compared to other brewing methods.

The Milk-Based Drinks

One of the most popular milk-based drinks in Paris is Cafe Creme; it’s similar to a cappuccino but without any foam on top. It’s essentially an espresso shot served with steamed milk and topped with whipped cream. Another popular drink is the Cafe Noisette, which is an espresso shot with a small amount of steamed milk that gives it a nutty flavor.

The Iced Coffee

Paris may be famous for its hot coffee, but iced coffee has also gained popularity in recent years. One of the most popular variations is the Cafe Glace, which is essentially a shot of espresso poured over ice and topped up with cold water. This coffee is perfect for hot summer days when you need a refreshing pick-me-up.

The Takeaway

In conclusion, Parisian coffee is all about dark roasted Arabica beans, strong flavors, and full-bodied textures. From classic espresso shots to milk-based drinks and iced coffees, there’s something for everyone in the city of love. So next time you find yourself in Paris, make sure to visit one of the charming cafes and indulge in a cup of Parisian coffee.