In my continued search for more fantastic Parisian coffee places to add to my list, I discovered Boot Café, aptly named for two reasons: firstly, it’s located in an old cordonnerie or cobbler’s, with a front façade so quintessentially Parisian that they (thankfully!) decided to keep it. And secondly, the shop is so minuscule you kind of feel like you might be drinking coffee in a boot.
I do not say this to deter you – rather, to give you an idea of what to expect.
When you can find a seat at Boot, it’s one of the coziest shops I’ve ever been to, but it’s definitely not the sort of place you should go to when you’re on a deadline and desperately need to find a spot to work. The tables are small, and you’re likely going to have to hover for a moment or two before being able to sit down. And even once you do, it’s tough to remain seating for long, as you have to ignore other potential patrons staring you down for your seat.
When the stars are in alignment and I do get a seat here, however, I love it: the coffee is excellent, the people-watching unparalleled, and the homemade pastries (more American-style than French: think quick breads, muffins, and granola rather than croissants and pain au chocolat) are delicious.
But above all, the little shop is pretty much the coziest I’ve ever seen: it kind of makes me understand the appeal of those tiny houses people seem to love these days.
I highly recommend you check out Boot Café – time permitting – in the middle of a weekday, when you’re far more likely to get a seat. (But if I’m there, I beg of you, please don’t hover and make me give up mine!)
Boot Café - 19 Rue du Pont aux Choux, 75003