Café de Flore: The Timeless Charm of Parisian Afternoon Tea

 

A Parisian Icon with Vintage Elegance

In the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, one of Paris’s most historic and artistic neighborhoods, Café de Flore symbolizes timeless Parisian elegance. Located at 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris, France, this legendary café has been a gathering place for intellectuals, writers, and artists for over a century.

Café de Flore is not just a café; it is an institution. With its vintage red seating, art deco interiors, and iconic green awnings, Café de Flore transports visitors to a golden era of Parisian culture. Whether looking for a classic afternoon tea experience, a picturesque moment for social media, or a taste of Parisian history, Café de Flore offers it all.

Unlike the grandeur of high-end hotel tea rooms, Café de Flore offers a more relaxed yet equally sophisticated experience. Its charm lies in its authenticity—nothing about it feels staged or overly curated, yet it remains effortlessly photogenic.

The café has been a favorite haunt of literary greats like Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, and Albert Camus, as well as fashion icons and filmmakers who have used it as a backdrop for their creative works. This blend of history, culture, and Parisian charm makes Café de Flore an unmissable destination.

Beyond its historic allure, the café’s outdoor terrace offers some of the best people-watching in Paris. With a prime location on Boulevard Saint-Germain, visitors can sip their tea while watching the world go by—a true Parisian luxury.

The Perfect Instagram Spot

Café de Flore is effortlessly Instagrammable, thanks to its combination of classic design, Parisian Street charm, and elegantly plated food. Here are some of the best photo opportunities:

  • The Iconic Green Awning and Signage – A must-capture shot that immediately signals a visit to one of Paris’s most famous cafés.
  • The Classic Red Banquettes and Marble Tables – These interiors have remained unchanged for decades, offering a vintage aesthetic perfect for photos.
  • Afternoon Tea on the Terrace – A table set with Café de Flore’s signature tea set, pastries, and a Parisian Street scene in the background.
  • The Gold-Embroidered White Napkins and Porcelain Cups – Small details like these make for elegant flat-lay photography.

Unlike modern Instagram-focused cafés that are designed purely for aesthetics, Café de Flore is genuinely timeless, making it one of the most photogenic locations in Paris without feeling overly curated.

While Café de Flore is famous for its coffee and hot chocolate, it also offers a fantastic selection of classic French pastries and teas that make for a delightful afternoon tea experience. Here are some must-try items:

  • Tarte Tatin – A classic French caramelized apple tart served warm with crème fraîche.
  • Mille-Feuille – Layers of delicate puff pastry with rich vanilla pastry cream.
  • Croissant aux Amandes – A buttery almond croissant, perfect for pairing with tea.
  • Pain Perdu (French Toast) – A decadent version of French toast, often served with fresh berries and powdered sugar.
  • Café de Flore’s Signature Hot Chocolate is a thick, velvety drink that is almost a dessert.
  • Selection of Fine Teas – Traditional black teas, fragrant herbal blends, and Parisian-style infusions served in elegant porcelain teapots.

Location and How to Visit

Café de Flore is situated in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, an area known for its literary history, boutique shops, and classic Parisian atmosphere.

Address:

Café de Flore

172 Boulevard Saint-Germain

75006 Paris, France

The café is easily accessible by metro, with the closest station being Saint-Germain-des-Prés (Line 4). It is open daily, but afternoons and weekends tend to be the busiest times, so arriving earlier ensures a prime terrace seat.

Café de Flore is more than just a beautiful tea venue—it is a living piece of Parisian history. Whether you are a lover of literature, a fan of French pastries, or simply looking for the perfect spot to capture the essence of Paris on camera, this café delivers in every way.

For those seeking a truly authentic, elegant, and Instagrammable afternoon tea experience, Café de Flore remains one of Paris’s most iconic and timeless destinations.

 

 

 

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