Café Procope: A Literary Haven in Paris

Café Procope is reputed to be the oldest continuously operating restaurant in Paris, claiming the title of the world’s first genuine literary café. Established in 1686 by Francesco Procopio dei Coltelli, an Italian chef, this café marked the dawn of the European coffeehouse culture as we know it today.

Nestled in a passageway near Paris’ bustling Mabillon metro station in the heart of the Latin Quarter, few would suspect that it once served as the preferred haunt for magnificent minds like French writers Voltaire and Denis Diderot. The café was frequented by the authors of the world’s first encyclopedias and even hosted American revolutionary figures, Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin, who gathered to discuss matters of state and debate the principles of democracy.

In later years, Café Procope became a beloved destination for eminent writers and thinkers, including George Sand, Paul Verlaine, Honoré de Balzac, Victor Hugo, and Alfred de Musset, fostering lively discussions and intellectual exchange.

If you have an interest in literary history or are a coffeehouse enthusiast captivated by the origins of your favorite brew, a visit to this magnificent, old-world address should undoubtedly be on your itinerary.

Today, while you can enjoy lunch, dinner, or a light meal here, it’s no longer a simple coffeehouse. The space has been renovated to reflect its 18th-century glory. Although it may lean towards the kitschy, the historical legacy remains vibrant, resonating with both charm and nostalgia.

Location, Hours, and Contact Information

Café Procope is situated on Paris’ left bank, within the 6th arrondissement.

• Address: 13 Rue de l’Ancienne Comédie
• Metro: Mabillon
• Tel: +33 (0)1 40 46 79 00
• Visit the official website (in English)
• Opening Hours: Daily, 11:30 am to midnight
• Serving: Lunch, dinner, hot drinks, wine, and beer, with an emphasis on traditional French cuisine. Vegetarian and vegan choices are quite limited. Check the menu for details.
• Dress Code: Business casual to formal wear is recommended for dinner; lunch service is more casual, but avoid ripped jeans and overly casual attire.
• Accepted Payment Methods: Cash, debit cards, and all major credit cards.

Sights and Attractions Nearby

A visit to Café Procope pairs well with a stroll through the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district, where further renowned intellectual landmarks such as Café de Flore and Lapérouse restaurant can be enjoyed. Additionally, the Musée d’Orsay, housing stunning collections of modern art and Impressionism, is also close by.

A Few Mythical Happenings at the Procope: Some History

Café Procope has a vibrant history marked by significant events:

• 1686: A Sicilian chef opens the doors of this modest establishment on what was then rue des Fossés Saint-Germain. He introduces Italian sorbets in porcelain goblets alongside a newly discovered dark brew known as “coffee.” The café quickly gains exceptional popularity.
• 1752: Renowned French philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau enters the café in defeat, believing that his play, Narcisse, has failed at the nearby Comédie Française and preferring the comfort of the café to facing critics.
• Late 18th century onward: The Enlightenment fosters radical ideas and a commitment to disseminating knowledge. Intellectuals, including Voltaire, gather at Procope to engage in coffee-fueled debates, with Voltaire reportedly consuming around 40 cups a day mixed with chocolate!
• 1780s-1790s: Revolutionary figures from both the United States and France convene here to discuss and shape political landscapes. Prominent Americans Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin are regular visitors, while leaders of the French Revolution, such as Robespierre, Danton, and Marat, also met here.
• 1988-1989: The café undergoes renovations to recreate its 18th-century atmosphere.

Voltaire’s Table at the Procope: An Object of Literary Legend

Voltaire’s favorite table at Procope is a shrine to the philosophical and literary legacy of this influential 18th-century writer. Adorned with candelabras and tomes of Voltaire’s work, the marble table honors his contributions to literature, despite showing signs of wear and tear.