The term wine bar can be a
little confusing in Paris. All wine bars feature wine, of course, but
the bar part is a little more flexible. Some have a counter
and tables, and you can show up anytime for a glass of wine and a
snack. Others are more like restaurants than bars. At many, reserving
in advance is a must. Some are also cavistes, or retail wine shops,
which makes them a good stop if you need to pick up a bottle. What’s
clear is that these bars à vin are among the most fun places
to eat and drink in Paris. Here are some of our top picks.
L’Avant Comptoir? 9,
Carrefour de l’Odéon, in the 6th Arrondissement. 01 46 33 16 24.
It’s standing room only at this
popular tapas and wine bar, and reservations aren’t accepted, so
show up early or during off-hours to avoid the crowds. L’Avant
Comptoir is fun, inexpensive and vegetarian friendly, and open daily,
all day.
Le Baratin ?3, rue Jouye
Rouve, in the 20th. 01 43 49 39 70.
Owned by Philippe
Pinoteau, Le Baratin has long been an advocate of vins
naturels. It’s an off-the-beaten-path spot in Belleville, but it’s
lively and cozy, popular with a mixed crowd
drawn by the modern bistro cooking of
Raquel Carena, Pinoteau’s wife. Reservations are a must.
Le Baron Rouge ?1, rue
Théophile Roussel, in the 12th.
Neighborhood locals gather here on
after some shopping at the Marché d’Aligre, but don’t let the
regulars intimidate you. Order your glass or carafe, then take it out
to the sidewalk and socialize. Try the oysters in winter, or any of
the excellent small-plate options, like cheese and charcuterie. No
reservations are accepted.
Le Chapeau Melon ?92, rue
Rébeval, in the 19th. 01 42 02 68 60.
Located in Belleville and run by
Olivier Camus, Le Chapeau Melon is a caviste during the day and a
table d’hôte in the evening. It’s reasonably priced and
funky, with a small kitchen that serves a unique prix fixe menu. The
food is flavorful, refined and inspired by a blend culinary
influences.
Coinstot Vino ?26 bis,
passage des Panoramas, in the 2nd. 01 44 82 08 54.
Situated in the passage des Panoramas,
Coinstot Vino offers vins naturels by the glass and bottle. Food
includes small plates (cheese, charcuterie, oysters) as well as full
meals. You can reserve a table in the dining room or on the terrace,
but you can also have a glass at one of the few spots at the counter.
Legrand
Filles et Fils ?1,
rue de la Banque, in the 2nd. 01 42 60 07 12.
A wineshop and épicerie in the
galerie Vivienne, Legrand is a great stop if you’re looking for a
break from shopping. It has a bar with a few tables, and there are
excellent snacks and wines not often poured by the glass.
Les Papilles
?30, rue Gay Lussac, in the 5th.
01 43 25 20 79.
Les Papilles is a caviste and bistro
with a beautiful bar for casual sipping. Located near the Jardin du
Luxembourg and owned by the friendly Bertrand Bluy, it serves
market-inspired food, with charcuterie and salads for lunch. Be sure
to reserve if you want to enjoy the prix fixe dinner.
Le Verre Volé
?67, rue de Lancry, in the 10th. 01 48 03 17 34.
Open daily, Le Verre Volé is a
popular caviste of natural wines, serving snacks and more filling
mains in a casual, friendly atmosphere. Reserve ahead if you want a
table, or just pick up a bottle and head to the canal St.-Martin with
a group of friends.
Willi’s
Wine Bar ?13, rue
des Petits Champs, in the 1st. 01 42 62 05 09.
Owned by Englishman Mark Williamson,
this Paris classic has been around for more than 30 years and draws
plenty of Anglophones as well as locals. Located near the Palais
Royal, Willi’s actually has bar seating, making it a great stop for
a few glasses or a casual meal.
Doni Belau is the owner and
editor of the Girls' Guide to Paris a travel website and blog
written by Parisian residents and insiders covering everything from
fashion to culture to foodie faves in the city of light.