The French don’t just drink coffee—they elevate it. Coffee in France isn’t about the caffeine rush; it’s about timing, taste, and tradition. And how the French “take” their coffee changes depending on the hour of the day.
In the morning, start your day like a local with a café crème or café au lait—rich coffee mixed with warm milk, often served in a bowl-like cup perfect for dunking croissants and baguettes. It’s cozy, comforting, and decidedly a breakfast affair.
By midday, it’s time to switch gears. Enter the classic café—a small but mighty espresso that delivers a bold punch of flavor. It’s the go-to choice after lunch or any time you need a refined pick-me-up.
If you struggle with the acidity of black coffee and are looking for something a bit smoother, order un cafe noisette or un noisette—a shot of espresso with just a splash of cream. The name is derived from “hazelnut” in reference to its warm color, not its taste. It’s just enough cream to soften the acidity without sacrificing intensity. Served in a dainty demi-tasse cup, un noisette is the ultimate balance: elegant, satisfying, and light enough not to spoil your appetite. It’s the drink of choice for stylish afternoons on Parisian terraces.
Ordering un noisette in the afternoon is très chic and more in keeping with French coffee drinking habits than ordering a café crème or a café au lait during the latter part of the day – I highly recommend it.
Travel Tip: Ordering a café crème in the afternoon might earn you a raised eyebrow from the waiter. For a more authentic French experience, go for un noisette—it’s effortlessly cool and culturally on point.
After all, “When in Paris…why not drink coffee à la Parisienne?”
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