12 Astonishing Rules the Locals Don’t Want You to Know About French Cafés
In France, a café is more than just a spot to grab a coffee, it’s a big part of daily life with its own set of unspoken rules. Locals know these rules by heart, while visitors often miss them completely.
These rules aren’t written down, but they matter if you want to enjoy the café experience without standing out as a tourist. Things like ordering your coffee like a local or understanding which spot to choose on the terrace will help you fit right in and enjoy the café like French people do.
1. Don’t Rush Your Coffee (Savor the Moment)
In a French café, your coffee is more than a quick pick-me-up, it's an experience. Locals take their time, enjoying every sip like it’s a mini-vacation. You won’t see them grabbing a to-go cup or gulping down their espresso in a hurry.
Instead, they sit back, relax, and let the world slow down a bit. So, when you’re in a French café, take a cue from the locals. Sit down, breathe in the aroma, and enjoy your coffee without a care in the world.
2. Respect the Terrace
In France, the terrace of a café is the place to be. It's prime real estate. Whether it’s sunny or just pleasant outside, locals love sitting on the terrace to enjoy their coffee and watch the world go by.
But with this prime spot comes a bit of etiquette. If you’re sitting on the terrace, it’s polite to order something, even if it’s just a small drink. Don’t just occupy a seat without ordering - these spots are valuable, and the staff will expect you to partake.
Also, if the café is busy, try not to linger too long after you’ve finished your drink. It’s fine to relax, but don’t stretch it out for hours during peak times. The terrace is a shared space, and keeping these small courtesies in mind will help you blend in.
4. Dress Casual, Yet Chic
In a café, you’ll notice that people dress with a bit of style, even when they’re just grabbing a coffee. The vibe is casual but put-together. You don’t need to dress up, but looking neat and chic helps you fit in. Think simple outfits with a touch of flair - maybe a nice scarf, a well-fitted jacket, or a pair of stylish shoes.
Especially in major cities, you won’t see locals in sweatpants or overly casual clothes at a café. It’s important to look effortlessly polished. So, before you head out, throw on something that makes you feel good and fits the relaxed, yet stylish atmosphere.
5. Greet the Staff With "Bonjour"
In France, greetings are a big deal. When you walk into a café, a friendly and singing “Bonjour!” to the staff is expected. It’s a small gesture but it sets the tone for a positive interaction.
Whether you’re ordering at the counter or sitting down at a table, starting with “bonjour” helps you blend in. Skipping the greeting comes off as rude, so make it a habit. It’s quick and easy, and you’ll likely find the service a bit warmer when you start on the right foot.
6. Speak Softly: Keep Conversations Low-Key
Conversations are kept low and relaxed. Locals tend to speak softly, creating a calm and pleasant atmosphere. It’s not the place for loud chatter (like often in Spain) or drawing attention to yourself.
Instead, keep your voice down and enjoy a quiet conversation with friends or simply enjoy the ambiance. This low-key approach helps maintain the cozy, intimate vibe that makes French cafés so special.
7. Aperitif, Coffee, or Digestif?
Timing is everything in a French café. Locals have a rhythm when it comes to what they order and when. In the morning, it’s all coffee - an espresso, a café crème, or something similar.
As the day moves on, especially in the late afternoon or evening, you might see people ordering an aperitif, like a glass of wine or a pastis, to enjoy before a meal.
After dinner, if you’re still at the café, a digestif like cognac or an after-dinner coffee is a popular choice. Understanding this flow helps you order at the right time and fit in with the local pace of life.
8. Know Your Café Crème from Your Espresso
French café menus might seem straightforward, but knowing what you’re ordering makes all the difference. A “café” usually means a strong espresso, while a “café crème” is coffee with steamed milk- similar to a latte. If you’re looking for something lighter, a “café allongé” is like an Americano, with added hot water.
Want to try something different? Go for a “café liégeois,” a coffee dessert with ice cream and whipped cream, or a “café à l'ancienne,” a traditional brew with a richer flavor.
9. Leave Your Laptop at Home (Not a Coworking Space)
In a French café, the vibe is all about relaxation and socializing, not work. While it might be common elsewhere to set up shop with a laptop for hours, French cafés aren’t typically the place for that. Locals come to enjoy their coffee, chat with friends, or simply unwind- not to tackle their inbox.
If you need to get some work done, it’s better to find a dedicated coworking space or a quieter spot. In the café, focus on enjoying the atmosphere, the coffee, and the company. Leave the laptop at home and embrace the break from work. It’s part of the charm of café culture in France.
10. Avoid Tourist Traps
Not all cafés are created equal. In tourist-heavy areas, you might find places that are more about convenience than quality. To enjoy an authentic experience, seek out the cafés where locals hang out.
These spots often have better coffee, a more relaxed atmosphere, and a genuine vibe that’s hard to find in the tourist traps.
Look for cafés off the main streets or those with a steady flow of locals. If you see a menu in multiple languages and a lot of cameras flashing, it’s a sign you might be in a touristy spot.
11. Choose Your Spot Wisely
Choosing the right spot in a French café can make a big difference in your experience. Before you grab a seat, take a moment to observe the layout. If you want to people-watch, the terrace is your best bet. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, a table inside might be more your style.
Also, be mindful of the café’s vibe. Some spots are better for a quick coffee, while others are more relaxed and ideal for lingering over your drink. A big café in front of the Jardin du Luxembourg in Paris will not be as "chill" as a tiny café in the heart of Saint Germain.
12. Tipping Is Subtle
In French cafés, tipping is not as expected as it might be elsewhere. The service charge is often included in your bill, so there’s no need to leave a large tip. That said, leaving a small amount as a gesture of appreciation is common. Rounding up your bill or leaving a euro or two is perfectly fine.
If your coffee cost €3.50, you might leave €4. It’s a simple way to show you're happy. Don’t feel pressured to tip big; the key is to keep it modest. This small gesture will be appreciated without making you stand out as a tourist.
