La Fontaine

Rating: 4.3 / 5 (881 reviews)

Charming Bistro with Delightful Ambiance

Discover a cozy and beautiful café with a charming atmosphere and delightful cuisine that captures the essence of French dining. Indulge in delectable treats like chocolate mousse, crème brûlée, and a pear/fig tart, or savor the highly recommended vegetarian and salmon dishes. The friendly staff and beautifully presented meals ensure an enjoyable experience, whether you’re relaxing on the terrace under tree shadows or appreciating the finely brewed coffee. Perfect for brunches or all-day dining, this café stands out with its vintage furnishings and sky-blue bistro seats, making every visit a memorable one.

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Description

Nestled in the heart of a charming neighborhood, this delightful café exudes an unmistakable French charm that captures both locals and visitors alike. From the moment you step inside, the classic décor—featuring woven bistro seats and vintage furnishings—transports you to a Parisian dream. With a history dating back to 1908, the café has been a cherished spot, consistently serving delicious food and quality coffee, thanks to its current operators, Alex and Stéphane, who expertly craft all-day meals paired with coffee from the renowned Belleville Brûlerie.

The menu offers a variety of delectable dishes that cater to all tastes—whether you’re craving a hearty brunch or a light afternoon snack. The aptly named “Assiette Végétarienne rigatonis” is a customer favorite, praised for its marvelous flavors, while the tempting selection of desserts, including chocolate mousse and crème brûlée, makes it impossible to resist a sweet treat. With meals that reflect traditional French fare, everything is beautifully presented, making each dish an Instagram-worthy delight.

Guests rave about the café’s warm and attentive service, perfect for those looking for a cozy atmosphere to work or relax. The café is known for its vibrant energy, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a coffee while watching the world go by. On sunny days, patrons can take advantage of the terrace, although it’s worth noting that the charming street-side seating offers an enchanting ambiance under the shade of leafy trees.

While some reviews have noted a dip in experience due to recent changes in ownership, most guests appreciate the friendly and welcoming staff, who are eager to assist even those who may struggle with the French menu. Recommendations flood in for the coffee, with many praising the café crème for its rich flavor that keeps patrons coming back for more. Combined with live jazz music on Saturday evenings, this café goes above and beyond to provide a uniquely Parisian experience.

Whether you’re a local or a traveler seeking a taste of authentic French life, this café is definitely worth a visit. With its great value, delicious food, and cozy vibe, it’s a favorite rendezvous point for anyone wanting to enjoy the pleasures of café culture.

Highlights

• French Cuisine: Enjoy typical French dishes, including delicious mixed platters with cured meats, cheeses, spreads, and melted Montfort cheese. Don’t miss out on the delectable desserts like chocolate mousse, crème brûlée, and pear/figs tart.
• Vegetarian Options: Savor beautifully presented vegetarian dishes, including the marvelous ‘Assiette Végétarienne rigatonis’. There’s always at least one really good vegetarian option available.
• Great Atmosphere: Experience a cozy and welcoming environment with kind service. The café boasts a beautiful and classic atmosphere with woven bistro seats, vintage furnishings, and a lovely ambiance.
• All-Day Meals & Coffee: Run by Alex and Stéphane, the café offers all-day meals and coffee from Belleville Brûlerie, a Parisian coffee roaster. Whether it’s brunch or a quick coffee, you’ll find something delightful any time of the day.
• Brunch Specials: Perfect place to enjoy brunch on a sunny day. Highlights include the salmon plate with a hot savory pancake, fresh salad, and a delicious cream sauce.
• Friendly and Quick Service: Staff are super nice and helpful, offering prompt and efficient service. English-speaking staff are available to assist with the French menu.
• Outdoor Seating: Enjoy seating options with nice tree shadows across the street, perfect for sunny days. The terrace seats offer a lovely spot to relax.
• Historical Charm: This classic neighborhood café has been continuously operated since 1908 under various owners, maintaining its historical charm and appeal.
• Recognized Excellence: Rated as one of the best cafes in the world by GQ UK, this café excels in food quality, ambiance, and service, making it a must-visit.
• Payment Options: Please note that the café only accepts cards for payments above 10 euros, so prepare cash if you’re just having drinks.

Features

Wheelchair-accessible entrance, Wheelchair-accessible seating, Wheelchair-accessible car park, Outdoor seating, Takeaway, Dine-in, Delivery, Great cocktails, Alcohol, Beer, Cocktails, Coffee, Happy-hour drinks, Organic dishes, Small plates, Spirits, Vegetarian options, Wine, Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, Catering, Counter service, Dessert, Seating, Bar on site, Gender-neutral toilets, Toilets, Wi-Fi, Free Wi-Fi, Casual, Cosy, Groups, Credit cards, Debit cards, Mobile payments, Credit Cards, Good for kids, High chairs, Dogs allowed

Opening Hours

• Monday : 8 am to 1 am
• Tuesday : 8 am to 1 am
• Wednesday : 8 am to 1 am
• Thursday : 8 am to 2 am
• Friday : 8 am to 2 am
• Saturday : 8:30 am to 2 am
• Sunday : 8:30 am to 12 am

Directions

Address: 31-33 Rue Juliette Dodu, 75010 Paris, France View on Google Maps