Craft beer in Paris: the best bars and bottle shops beyond the tourist trail

Paris. The city of lights, love, and… craft beer? You might think of wine when you think of France, but I’ve discovered that Paris has a seriously cool craft beer scene brewing, far from the usual tourist spots. I’ve been exploring these neighborhoods, finding places where the beer is as thoughtfully made as the finest cheese. Forget what you think you know about French beer; I’m here to guide you to the spots that are pouring something truly special. This is my personal take on the best craft beer bars Paris, France has to offer, for those looking for something a little different.

Key Takeaways

• Paris is a surprisingly great city for craft beer, with many independent bars and bottle shops away from the main tourist areas.
• Look for ‘bière artisanale’ to find local craft brews, with the 11th arrondissement being a hotspot.
• Many bars offer a curated selection of mostly French beers, but also feature imports from Belgium, the UK, and Germany.
• Bottle shops are excellent resources for discovering new beers, often with knowledgeable staff to guide your choices.
• Expect a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere where locals and beer enthusiasts gather to enjoy thoughtfully brewed beverages.

1. La Fine Mousse

If you’re going to make one essential stop for craft beer in Paris, make it La Fine Mousse. This place in the Oberkampf area is a real pioneer. The room itself is pretty low-key, not flashy at all, but they are serious about what they serve.

They always have a changing selection of beers, with a focus on French brews, but they’re not afraid to pour a good lambic or a big stout when it’s called for. The staff here actually know their stuff and will talk you through the beer. They use the right glassware for each style, which I always appreciate. The crowd is a good mix of locals and travelers who are there for the beer, not just to be seen.

My advice? Come early and treat it like a tasting. Order small pours of a few different styles, and then go back for a pint of whatever really surprised you. If you get hungry, their sister restaurant is right across the square. They actually create food pairings that work with beer, instead of just treating beer like a cheap substitute for wine. On a rainy night, sitting at the bar with a bitter, bright beer, you’ll totally get why this place is still considered the gold standard for craft beer in the city.

The focus here is on quality and knowledge, making it a spot where you can genuinely learn something new about beer with every visit.

Here’s what you can typically expect:

• Rotating tap list with a strong French presence
• Knowledgeable staff ready to guide your choices
• A relaxed atmosphere perfect for beer enthusiasts
• Food pairings available at the sister restaurant across the square

2. La Robe Et La Mousse

Finding good craft beer on the Left Bank used to feel a bit like a wild goose chase, but La Robe Et La Mousse changed all that. Tucked away in the Latin Quarter, this place is a cozy spot that manages to feel both lively and relaxed. I was really impressed by their selection of around sixteen taps, with a strong focus on French breweries, but they also bring in some interesting international brews. It’s the kind of bar where you can easily spend an hour or two, whether you’re grabbing a drink before dinner or just unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

What I liked most was the atmosphere. It has this laid-back vibe, almost like a wine bar, which makes it super approachable. They’ve got some solid cheese and charcuterie boards too, perfect for pairing with your pint. It’s a great place to bring friends, even if some of them aren’t as into craft beer as I am. The staff are happy to give you a taste if you’re unsure about what to order, which is always a plus in my book.

The bar’s setup makes it easy to chat with whoever you’re with, and the beer list is curated well enough that you’re likely to find something new and exciting, even if you think you’ve tried it all.

If you’re with someone who’s more into wine, I found a neat trick: ask the bartenders to recommend a beer that has a similar profile to a white Burgundy or a Loire red. It’s a fun way to bridge the gap and discover new tastes together. It’s definitely a spot I’ll be returning to.

3. Hoppy Corner

Tucked away in the 2nd arrondissement, near the bustling food streets of Sentier and Montorgueil, Hoppy Corner is a spot that really captures the neighborhood bar feel, but with a seriously curated tap list. It’s not a huge place, so it can get a bit lively, but that’s part of its charm. I always find myself within easy reach of some great dinner options after a visit here.

The beer board is a good mix. You’ll see some excellent French craft beers alongside carefully chosen international brews. They pour everything with such attention, making even a simple lager taste fantastic. It’s a place where I’ve learned that Parisians aren’t afraid of a bit of bitterness anymore. If you see something that reminds you of West Coast IPAs, give it a shot. Or if there’s a farmhouse ale on tap, maybe start with a smaller pour to see if the peppery, citrusy notes are for you before committing to a full pint.

Here’s what I usually look for when I’m there:

• IPAs: Especially anything with a hop-forward profile, whether it’s a classic West Coast style or a more modern hazy version.
• Farmhouse Ales: These often have interesting yeast characteristics and can be a refreshing change.
• Local French Brews: Always keen to try what the French brewers are doing, especially their takes on traditional styles.

It’s the kind of place that quickly becomes a regular stop. You just drop in, grab a beer, and feel like you’re part of the local scene. It’s a great spot to discover new beers and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere. I’ve found some really interesting French craft brewers experimenting with unique styles here.

4. L’Atalante

Tucked away in the 19th arrondissement, L’Atalante feels like a genuine discovery. It’s a place that really embraces the spirit of French craft beer, focusing on quality and a sense of place. When I first walked in, I was struck by how bright and welcoming the space is, with the gleaming tanks behind the bar really setting the scene. It’s right on the Bassin de la Villette, and the veranda offers a lovely view over the water, which is a pretty rare treat in Paris.

They have a solid core range of easy-drinking beers, like their pale ale, and they also do a good job of rotating in seasonal options and one-off experiments. It’s the kind of spot where you can really get a feel for what the brewery is up to. I found myself really enjoying their take on classic styles; they just seem to nail it.

This bar is a great example of how Paris’s craft beer scene is growing beyond the usual spots. It offers a relaxed atmosphere and a connection to the local brewing community.

If you’re looking for a chill afternoon session, grabbing a table by the window is perfect. Or, if you visit later, the terrace fills up nicely as the sun starts to set. What really surprised me was the food menu – it’s actually quite good for a brewery taproom, meaning you can comfortably settle in for a while without having to settle for mediocre snacks. It makes L’Atalante a perfect stop if you’re planning a bit of a beer crawl in the area, especially since there are other producers nearby.

5. La Cave A Bulles

When I first started exploring Paris’s craft beer scene, La Cave A Bulles was one of the first places that really impressed me. It’s a bottle shop, but calling it just that feels a bit limiting. I’d say it’s more like a treasure chest for beer lovers. They’ve got an incredible selection, easily over 100 different French craft brews, plus a good range of imports. I’ve found some really unique Belgian beers here that I haven’t seen anywhere else.

What I really appreciate is the focus on natural and organic options. It shows a commitment to quality and a different way of thinking about brewing. The owner, Simon, is incredibly knowledgeable. He’s happy to chat about the beers, explain the different styles, and help you find something new. He even speaks English, which makes things super easy if you’re not fluent in French.

Here’s what I usually look for when I visit:

• Something from a smaller French brewery I haven’t tried before.
• A classic Belgian lambic, if they have it.
• A saison or a pale ale with interesting hop profiles.

It’s a great spot to pick up a few bottles to take back to your accommodation or to discover some hidden gems. If you’re looking to understand the breadth of French craft beer, this is definitely a place to start.

This shop is a testament to how far French brewing has come, offering a curated selection that goes beyond the usual suspects.

6. Brasserie De La Goutte D’Or

When I first started exploring Paris’s craft beer scene, Brasserie de la Goutte d’Or was one of the names that kept popping up. Located in the 18th arrondissement, this place is one of the city’s original craft breweries, and I can see why it’s still going strong. They really lean into the multicultural vibe of their neighborhood, and you can taste it in their beers. It feels like they’re inspired by the spice shops and markets nearby, which gives their brews a unique twist.

I found their approach to be really authentic. They’re not just making generic pale ales; they’re creating modern French takes on classic styles, often with a nod to local flavors. It’s a brewery that’s proud of its roots and its location. The tasting experience here is super friendly and down-to-earth; I always end up chatting with locals who live right around the corner. It’s a great spot to get a real feel for what’s happening in Parisian brewing.

If you’re curious about how French wheat beers are made, this is a good place to start thinking about it. They often incorporate interesting ingredients that give them a distinct character, unlike some other European styles. It’s a place that celebrates what Paris really tastes like, one pint at a time. I’d recommend checking out their tap list when you visit to see what seasonal experiments they have on offer.

7. La Binouze

When I’m looking to stock up for a cozy night in or just want to explore a wide range of French craft beers, La Binouze is my go-to spot. It’s a bit of a hybrid, functioning as both a serious bottle shop and a relaxed taproom. The selection here is really impressive, with a strong focus on independent French breweries, but they also carry some excellent international options. The staff are genuinely knowledgeable and always happy to guide you through their fridges, pointing out limited releases or explaining why a particular beer is special.

I always find something new and exciting here, whether I’m looking for a specific style or just want to try whatever the brewers are most excited about that month. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend an hour browsing the shelves, picking out a few bottles to take back to your hotel, and maybe even enjoying a glass or two at the counter while you decide. If you’re on the hunt for something specific, La Binouze is one of those rare Parisian spots where they might actually have it tucked away in the back.

Here’s what I usually look for when I visit:

• Local French Brews: Always check out their curated selection of beers from smaller, independent French breweries. They often have unique saisons, IPAs, and stouts.
• Barrel-Aged Surprises: Keep an eye out for any French barrel-aged beers they might have. These can offer incredibly complex flavors, especially those aged in wine barrels.
• Staff Recommendations: Don’t hesitate to ask what they’re excited about. Their insights are usually spot-on and lead to some great discoveries.

It’s a fantastic place to get a real sense of what’s happening in the French craft beer scene beyond the usual suspects.

8. BBP Pigalle

If I’m in the Pigalle area and looking for a solid beer spot, BBP Pigalle is usually my go-to. It’s part of the Brussels Beer Project, but don’t let that fool you into thinking it’s just another generic pub. This place has a real craft bar feel, with over twenty taps flowing. The staff here are always energetic, and you can tell they genuinely love what they’re serving. The crowd is definitely here for the beer, which is always a good sign.

The space itself is pretty cool – lots of exposed brick and pipes, giving it a lively, industrial vibe. The beer menu is all over the place in the best way possible. You can find modern Belgian styles, some New England IPAs that are super hazy, and even some barrel-aged projects. Plus, they always have guest taps that keep things fresh and interesting. It’s a fantastic starting point if I’m planning to explore Montmartre in the evening. I often grab a flight to sample a few different things, maybe pair it with a small bite from their bar menu, and then head up the hill. It’s also a good option when I’m with friends who have different tastes because there’s such a wide variety on offer.

This spot is a great launchpad for a Montmartre evening. Knock out a flight, pair it with something from the short, salty bar-food menu, and then drift up the hill.

I find that BBP Pigalle is a reliable anchor if I’m bar-hopping in the 9th arrondissement. It makes the rest of the evening much easier because I know I’ve already had some excellent beer.

9. IBU Petites Écuries

Tucked away in the 10th arrondissement, IBU Petites Écuries is a spot I always make time for when I’m exploring Paris’s craft beer scene. It’s not the biggest place, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in serious beer knowledge and a well-curated selection. The vibe here is relaxed, the kind of place where you can actually have a conversation without shouting over loud music.

What I really appreciate about IBU is their commitment to showcasing a diverse range of breweries, both French and international. They have a solid lineup of taps that rotate regularly, so there’s always something new to try. It’s a fantastic place to discover smaller, independent breweries that might not get as much attention elsewhere.

Here’s what you can generally expect:

• A rotating selection of around 8-10 taps.
• A strong focus on hop-forward beers, but they also carry lagers, sours, and darker styles.
• Knowledgeable staff who are happy to guide you through the options.

They also have a decent bottle selection if you want to take something home. It’s a great place to start if you’re looking to get a feel for what’s happening in the French craft beer world, especially if you’re interested in French barrel-aged beers and other unique styles. I often find myself lingering here longer than planned, just enjoying the atmosphere and the quality of the brews.

10. Le Supercoin

Tucked away in the 18th arrondissement, Le Supercoin feels like a genuine neighborhood pub, the kind of place locals cherish. It’s a bit scruffy, in the best possible way, and that’s part of its charm. The vibe is super relaxed, and the bartenders here really pour what they enjoy drinking, which is always a good sign.

The beer list is where Le Supercoin truly shines, with a strong focus on French microbreweries. You’ll find a rotating selection on tap, often featuring brews from smaller, independent French producers. The bottled beer selection is extensive, boasting a diverse range that could easily fill a multi-page menu. It’s a fantastic spot to discover beers you might not find elsewhere, especially if you’re looking to explore the breadth of French craft beer.

Here’s what I usually look for when I visit:

• A few rotating taps showcasing local talent.
• A solid selection of bottled beers from French breweries.
• A friendly atmosphere where I can just chill.

If you’re exploring Montmartre, make a point to head north to Le Supercoin. It offers a refreshing dose of authenticity that balances out the more tourist-heavy spots. They even let you bring in pizza from the place across the street, which just adds to the laid-back, come-as-you-are feel. It’s the perfect place to let the evening unfold naturally.

So, What’s Next for the Paris Beer Scene?

Honestly, I feel like I’ve only scratched the surface. Paris has really embraced craft beer, and it’s exciting to see how much it’s grown just in the time I’ve been exploring it. It’s not just about finding a good pint anymore; it’s about discovering places with real character, run by people who are genuinely passionate about what they do. Whether you’re after a perfectly poured IPA or a rare Belgian sour, there’s a spot out there for you, probably somewhere you wouldn’t expect. I’m already planning my next trip back to check out more of the spots on my map and see what new breweries have popped up. If you’re a beer lover, Paris is definitely worth a visit – just be prepared to leave with a new appreciation for French brewing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find the best craft beer in Paris?

You’ll find the best craft beer spots tucked away in neighborhoods like the 11th arrondissement, Belleville, and Oberkampf, far from the usual tourist spots. I’ve put together a map of all my favorite places, so you can easily find great brews without any guesswork.

Does Paris actually have good craft beer?

Absolutely! Paris has a super lively and growing craft beer scene. You’ll find local breweries making awesome beers, cool little taprooms, and all sorts of interesting flavors to try. Just look for ‘bière artisanale’ – that’s French for craft beer.

What kind of beers are popular in Paris?

While traditional French beers are still around, more and more Parisians are choosing craft options. Think IPAs, saisons (a type of farmhouse ale), stouts, and other unique brews. Local is definitely becoming the trend.

Can I find IPAs in Paris?

You bet! French brewers are making some really fantastic IPAs. You can find everything from juicy, hazy styles to more bitter ones, and even some interesting mixes that blend French and Belgian brewing styles.

What makes Paris a cool place for beer lovers?

Paris combines its fancy food culture with a fun, experimental beer scene. You can find beers aged in wine barrels or made with local herbs, mixing French traditions with new ideas. Plus, the neighborhoods are great, and the people who love beer there are really passionate.

Are there special events for craft beer in Paris?

Yes, there are! Paris Beer Week is a big event that happens across the city with lots of tastings, special brewery nights, and collaborations. It’s a perfect excuse to plan a trip in the spring if you’re a big beer fan.