The Beauty of Café Life in Paris

The Paris Vignettes series features the inspired work of street photographer William “Bill” O’Such in themed installments. 

Café life is deeply woven into the fabric of Paris. During my regular 10-minute walk to the BHV, I’m certain I pass at least a dozen cafés (“au petit fer à cheval”). Whether I’m craving a delectable boeuf bourguignon (“café des musées”) or simply want to sit inside with an apero, watching the snow gently fall (“neige chez Causeries”), local cafés are an essential part of my daily routine.

Inside, you’ll encounter fascinating characters, like the bartender (“Majid”) at Joe Allen’s, who crafts the best Margarita around Les Halles, or the one at Florida (“chez Florida”), effortlessly mixing two drinks at once, warmly welcoming patrons on chilly winter days.

Some bars boast intriguing histories, such as the one inside the Boudoir des Muses Hotel, which was once a convent, brothel, and theater. Others are iconic landmarks (“Hotel du Nord,” “Café de la Mairie”), representing their neighborhoods’ unique charm.

If you visit the café in Montorgueil, be sure to give the bear (“toute seul”) a hug—he always seems lonely to me.