12 Unwritten Rules 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 follow them naturally but visitors often miss them completely.

These rules aren’t written down but they might 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. 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.

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.

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.

4. Dress Casual Yet Elegant

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. Simple outfits with a touch of flair – maybe a nice scarf, a well-fitted jacket, or a pair of stylish shoes.

In city centers, you typically won’t see locals in sweatpants or overly casual clothes at a café. They’ll look effortlessly polished. So, 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 or drawing attention to yourself.

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 important 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 at a café, a digestif like cognac or an after-dinner coffee is a popular choice.

8. Know Your Café Crème from Your Espresso

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, especially the more elegant or trendy ones, aren’t typically the place for that.

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.

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.

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.