The best cafe in Paris?
WRITTEN BY KAROL @THECREATIVE.SITE
Paris is full of surprises. Every corner, every passageway, and every street seems to have a story waiting to be told. And nestled in a quiet neighborhood, I recently stumbled upon one such story — a uniquely artistic coffee place that quickly became the centerpiece of my latest photo and video session.
A Session That Almost Didn’t Happen
Let me rewind a bit. The day began with excitement and a dash of chaos. My new camera decided not to cooperate right before an important session, forcing me to fall back on my trusty old setup. Not ideal, but I was determined — especially because today’s shoot wasn’t just about visuals, it was about soul.
Discovering Bruno’s Café
The café I visited is not just a place to grab coffee. It’s a visual and emotional experience — a place where art, memory, and flavors coexist in harmony. Owned by Bruno, an artist and designer with a remarkable history, the café is a tribute to creative living. From the moment you step in, it feels less like a commercial café and more like a curated gallery of stories and passion.
Bruno, originally from Italy, has lived and worked in Paris and New York. His past includes producing monumental sculptures for Comme des Garçons in Tokyo, creating production design for films, and exhibiting photography at the renowned ICP (International Center of Photography) in New York. His life is a tapestry woven through punk rock, underground art scenes, and urban design — and all of that reflects in the café he designed.
The Art of Coffee and Design
What makes this café so exceptional is not just the coffee (although we’ll get to that), but the space itself. Almost every piece of furniture has a story. Bruno proudly points out a rare 1950s Frisocrammer table and mentions that the storefront façade was designed by none other than Le Corbusier.
He also designed many of the elements inside the café — from the custom lighting to the furniture, creating a distinct identity that makes the space feel like an extension of his art.
One of the standout pieces is a bag designed by his wife, each one accompanied by an original drawing from Bruno himself. It’s these small touches that transform the café from a business into a personal, immersive experience.
A Conversation with Bruno
During our chat, I asked Bruno what makes his café the best in Paris.
“We work with the best roasters,” he said, “They travel the world, do extensive research, and they’re incredibly exigent. We are too. Everything we serve — the coffee, the food — it’s what we love. And this place is about love.”
That love is evident. Whether you’re sipping a rich espresso or admiring the drawings and design elements scattered throughout, the café invites you to slow down and appreciate its thoughtful details.
More Than Just Coffee
Our conversation took many turns — from memories of New York’s legendary CBGB club to punk rock scenes, from monumental sculptures to neighborhood histories drawn by hand. Bruno’s stories brought layers of meaning to the space and reminded me how interconnected places and people can be.
This café isn’t just a coffee spot — it’s a creative hub. A gallery of life experiences. A peaceful refuge. And now, it’s part of my story too.
Final Thoughts
In a city as iconic as Paris, it’s easy to miss the quiet gems tucked between its grand landmarks. But it’s often in these lesser-known spots where the real magic lives. Bruno’s café is a perfect example — a place where passion meets history, and every detail, from the artwork to the coffee beans, tells a story.
Whether you’re chasing creative sparks or simply craving a truly great cup of coffee, make sure to stop by. You won’t just enjoy the flavor — you’ll carry the atmosphere with you.
Because the best cafés don’t just serve coffee; they create memories. And this one? It’s one you won’t forget.
Visit: Spree Café Galerie , Paris
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