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, as well as 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.
  

• La Fine Mousse

If you’re going to make one essential stop for craft beer in Paris, make it La Fine Mousse, one of the best craft beer bars Paris has to offer. 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 from Paris breweries, 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, rather than treating beer as 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… so it becomes this spot where you can truly learn something fresh about beer, every time you visit, like really.

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 are available at the sister restaurant across the square
  

• La Robe Et La Mousse

Finding a really good craft beer on the Left Bank used to feel a little like chasing a wild goose, but La Robe Et La Mousse sort of changed the whole vibe. It’s tucked away in the Latin Quarter, and the place feels cosy in this very specific way, like it’s still lively, yet relaxed too. I was honestly pretty impressed by their lineup—about sixteen taps—or so, and they lean heavily toward French breweries, but they still slip in some interesting international brews as well. Overall it’s the sort of place where you can just stay there an hour or two, whether you’re grabbing something before dinner, or winding down 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 is happy to give you a taste if you’re unsure about what to order, which is always a plus in my book.

The bar setup makes it kinda easy to chat with whoever you’re with, and the beer list is curated pretty well, like you’d expect to find something new and exciting… even if you think you’ve tried it all already.

So, if you’re with someone who’s more into wine than beer, I sort of stumbled on a little trick, ask the bartenders to point you toward a beer with a similar vibe to a white Burgundy or even a Loire red. I mean it’s kind of a fun move to help everyone meet in the middle, you know, bridge that tiny divide and then sample new flavors together. It feels like one of those places where you walk out happy, and yeah, it’s definitely somewhere I’ll be back at.

• 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 to detail that even a simple lager tastes 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, like really fast, becomes your usual stop, and it has one of those standout beer bars Paris is somehow famous for. You just drop in, grab a beer and you sorta feel like you belong in the local scene, even if you just arrived. It’s a good spot to dig around for fresh beers, and keep things calm, relaxed. I’ve also noticed there are some genuinely interesting French craft brewers here, trying out unusual, even slightly oddball styles.

• L’Atalante

In a sort of tucked away corner of the 19th arrondissement, L’Atalante feels like one of those real discoveries you don’t expect. It sort of embraces the whole French craft beer spirit, like it is all about quality, plus a really specific sense of place, I mean that in a good way. 

The first time I walked in, I was honestly caught off guard by how bright, and how welcoming the place was, with those gleaming tanks behind the bar setting the whole atmosphere. You’re right by the Bassin de la Villette, and the veranda gives a lovely outlook over the water, which is a pretty rare little treat in Paris, especially if you’re just wandering around.

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 kind of a great example of how Paris’s craft beer scene is growing past the usual haunts. It has a relaxed vibe and it keeps a kind of connection with the local brewing community, in a way that feels actually welcoming.

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 sets. 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.

• 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, making it one of the standout craft beer bottle shops Paris has for enthusiasts. 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 kind of shows a commitment to quality, and also a different way of thinking about the brewing process. The owner, Simon, is super knowledgeable too, like really. He is happy to chat about the beers, sort of explain the different styles, and help you find something new, on the spot. He even speaks English, which makes everything super easy if you’re not fully 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 really good spot to grab a few bottles and bring them back to your accommodation, or just drift through and uncover a couple of hidden gems. If you’re trying to get a feel for the full range of French craft beer, then yeah this is absolutely a place to begin, start.

This shop feels like a testament to how far French brewing has gotten now, kind of showing you where it is at, with a curated lineup that goes past the usual picks, like you know the same old suspects.

• Brasserie De La Goutte D’Or

When I first started looking into the Paris craft beer scene, Brasserie de la Goutte d’Or was one of the names that just kept popping up. It’s in the 18th arrondissement, and honestly this spot feels like one of the city’s original craft breweries, so it makes sense that it’s still doing really well. You can tell they lean hard into the multicultural vibe of the neighborhood, it kinda shows up everywhere, even in the beers themselves. The whole thing seems a bit inspired by those nearby spice shops and markets too, and the brews end up having this strange… in a good way, 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 seems really proud of its roots and also of where they’re planted, kinda in the neighborhood. The tasting experience is super friendly and down to earth, like not over-done at all; I always end up talking with locals who live just around the corner. It feels like a good place to get a genuine sense of what’s going on with Parisian brewing, if you’re asking yourself where to drink beer in Paris that locals actually enjoy.

If you’re curious about how French wheat beers are made, this is a good place to start thinking about it, I guess. They often fold in interesting ingredients that give them a distinct character, yet unlike some other European styles, it feels a bit more alive. You kinda notice the difference, even before you really understand why. 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.

• 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 basically my go-to in that batch of best craft beer bottle shops Paris offers. I mean it’s kinda like a hybrid, half serious bottle shop and half easygoing taproom, so you can browse without that stiff vibe. The selection is really impressive, there’s a lot of independent French breweries, but you’ll also spot some really solid international picks too. And the staff are genuinely knowledgeable, they’ll happily point you through the fridges, kinda showing limited releases or explaining why a specific brew is special, you know, in a straightforward way.

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, especially if you’re exploring beer bars Paris locals recommend.

• 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 20 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, super-hazy New England IPAs, and even 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.

• IBU Petites Écuries

Somewhere in the 10th arrondissement, like tucked away a bit, IBU Petites Écuries is a place I always find time for when I’m wandering through the Paris craft beer scene. It’s not huge, and yet what it lacks in size, it kinda makes up for that serious beer knowledge and the careful selection of what’s pouring. The atmosphere feels easygoing, almost calm, the sort of spot where you can chat properly, you know, not yelling just because of loud music or whatever.

What I really like about IBU is their commitment to showing off a kinda diverse mix of Paris breweries, French breweries and also international makers. They’ve got a pretty solid lineup of taps that rotate, like pretty regularly, so there’s always something fresh to sample. Honestly it’s a great spot, to find smaller independent breweries that might not get that much attention elsewhere, you know.

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’ve also got a pretty solid bottle selection, if you wanna take something home, you know. It feels like a good place to begin, if your goal is getting a real sense of what’s going on in the French craft beer world, especially if you’re into French barrel-aged beers and other kinds of unusual styles. I’ll catch myself hanging around there longer than I meant to, just sort of savoring the whole atmosphere and the brew quality, like it’s a small detour that turns into a habit.

• Le Supercoin

Tucked away in the 18th arrondissement, Le Supercoin kinda feels like a real neighborhood pub, the sort of place locals keep in their pocket, you know. It’s a little scruffy, in the best possible way, and that’s the charm. The vibe is really laid back, and the bartenders here kind of pour what they themselves like to drink, which is always a solid sign.

The beer list is where Le Supercoin truly shines, with a strong focus on French microbreweries. You’ll find some kind of rotating little selection there on tap , usually with brews from smaller independent French producers, nothing too stiff or obvious. The bottled beer list is pretty extensive, with a range so varied it could almost end up being a multi page kind of menu. It’s a great place to turn up beers you might not come across elsewhere, particularly if you’re trying to explore the full breadth of French craft beer, sort of beyond the usual choices.

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 out exploring Montmartre, make a point to head north to Le Supercoin. There you get a kind of fresh, grounded authenticity that sort of evens out the other, more tourist- heavy spots. They also let you bring in pizza from the place across the street, which just adds to the relaxed, come-as-you-are vibe. It’s pretty much the right spot for letting the evening unfold at its own pace, a little quiet and natural.

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

Honestly, I feel like I only skimmed the surface, and even then sort of, not completely. Paris really has leaned into craft beer, and it’s kind of thrilling to watch how much it’s expanded while I’ve been poking around. It’s not only about snagging a solid pint anymore, like it used to be, it’s more about stumbling on spots with genuine personality—places that are run with this stubbornly sincere dedication to the whole thing. So whether you’re hunting for a perfectly poured IPA, or a rare Belgian sour, you’ll end up seeing why these are often named the best craft beer bars in Paris that visitors should go to and actually try.

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 while discovering where to drink beer in Paris beyond the tourist trail. 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 about it.

Are there special events for craft beer in Paris?

Yes, there are! Paris Beer Week is a big event held across the city, featuring 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.