Cafe life

One of my favorite things to do in Paris is to veer away from my itinerary once and awhile and stop at a cafe. I usually do this LATE (2 PM) in the afternoon before the cafes close for dinner preparation.

You can virtually find a good cafe on every street corner, but I do recommend asking your concierge where the business people/employees eat during their lunch break.  Not only will the food be good, it will most likely be affordable.

I've tried cafes in all of the popular arrondissements, but I prefer the ones on the Left Bank.  There's something different about them.  You can tell that locals will stop and enjoy a quick bite to eat, meaning it's not all tourists.  Try to use the little bit of French that you know.  It will make a difference.  And don't complain that you're hot or cold or you'll be seated in the back of the restaurant with the other Americans.  You want to be near the front of the restaurant to take a moment to experience the hustle and bustle of the city.  To see how the tourists appear to people sitting and enjoying a cold glass of Rose.  It may help you learn how to NOT be a target.

  Try to eat something new.  Don't ask for the items you eat at home, they will never taste the same and you're sure to be disappointed.  Eat what's on the daily special or look at the table next to you and order "what they are having".

Happy Traveling!