The wine bar or “cave” is an essential part of Parisian culture. The wine scene in Paris is vast and varied – there’s a wine bar for every taste! This post will provide you with a list of some of the most popular wine bars and what they offer, so that you can decide which one is right for your next evening out. I wanted to keep this short and sweet as my plan in 2022 is to keep developing new comprehensive guides to wine culture in Paris, so for now, here are 5 of my favorites that I think you’ll enjoy.
Le Garde Robe – 1er
This wine bar is located just steps from the Louvre and specializes in natural wine. Le Garde Robe is both lovely and intimate making it perfect for casual gatherings and romantic dates. The wine list is ever-changing and features small production wines from all over France. If you’re looking for an interesting wine experience after your museum visit, check out their selection. The food is a combination of cheese platters and charcuteries at standard Paris prices, nothing to write home about but if you are looking for Natural Wine and all the culture that comes with it, Le Garde Robe is your spot.
Address: 41 Rue de l’Arbre Sec, 75001 Paris
5e Cru – 5eme
5e Cru was my go-to spot when I first moved to Paris and will forever have a special space in my heart. It was a short walk from the Ile Saint Louis where I lived for two years. I had my last glass of wine before the lockdown inside this cave. I love this bar because unlike so many caves in Paris their selection is mixed. You will find natural wine here, yes, but it is not the focus. They offer a wide range of terrines and sophisticated meat and cheese boards. The atmosphere lies somewhere between rustic vigneron and beatnik intellectual. The crowd is varied and international, yet this is not a touristy spot.
Address: 7 Rue du Cardinal Lemoine, 75005 Paris
Ô Chateau – 1er
I might be biased because I used to work at Ô Chateau. I spent two years curating the “Wine and Cheese Lunch” and the “Tour de France” tastings. For English speakers, Ô Château provides an approachable introduction to French wine with classical experience. The evening ambiance is romantic and cozy. Perfect for couples traveling to France together, those new to wine or who are looking for something easy. The wine list includes other countries besides France, which is rare.
Address: 68 Rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau, 75001 Paris
Le Baron Rouge – 12eme
The Baron Rouge is a Paris institution. This wine bar focuses exclusively on French wines and features over 100 different wines by the glass, carafe, or bottle. The wine list changes regularly, so there is always something new to try. The place gets packed inside and out. The energy is lively so I recommend this place for casual group outings.
Be prepared to practice your French.
Address: 1 Rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris
Ma Cave Fleury – 2eme
Champagne, of course, takes center stage here. If you want to explore the different styles of Champagne, this is a must. What makes this cave particularly interesting to me is the juxtaposition between Champagne prestige and the gritty street vibe of rue Saint-Denis where it is located. Rue Saint-Denis is best known for being a hotbed of prostitution in the capital and one of the last places in France where, despite the legislation, sex workers claim to work in freedom.
The food is standard, but the atmosphere is fun. I’ve escaped many rainy afternoons to enjoy the jazz offered on Sundays. Ma Cave Fleury is a Bohemian favorite.
Address: 177 Rue Saint-Denis, 75002 Paris
These are just a few of my favorite wine bars in Paris. I wanted to give you a little “taste”. There are so many more to explore, each with its own unique atmosphere and wine selection. Note: I have complete lists of Paris restaurants, cafes, and more in my IG guides.
+ If you are looking for wine recommendations, classes, experiences, or need a guide don’t hesitate to reach out! Join two professional sommeliers – one French and one American- as I’ve teamed up with Nicolas Fouilleroux to create a very special wine experience. Together we bring a rich Franco-American perspective to wine, making this the perfect opportunity to learn about wine through the lens of culture and history in Paris. Learn more
No matter what your taste, there is sure to be a wine bar in Paris that’s perfect for you!
Bon voyage!
