Café Laurent

There are few cafés as deeply anchored in musical and literary history as Café Laurent. Opened by François Laurent in 1690, several generations of influential people have rested their elbows on the counter. Fontenelle, Voltaire and Rousseau all came here to discover 'l’eau de café' or Indian tea. The place is also remarkable for its clientele of distinguished intellectuals from the 20th century, including the musicians and philosophers of the Nouvelle Vague. In the post-WW1 years, where jazz was the order of the day and the avant-gardistes were unleashing existentialism, Café Laurent was rebaptised le Café Tabou and counted amongst its regulars Sartre, Queneau, Camus and Mauriac who used it as their headquarters. These days, the place is frequented by the chic clientele of the quartier. Hidden on the ground floor of the luxury hotel l’Aubusson, the café also puts on jazz concerts on Wednesday and Saturday.

With upholstered seats, sumptuous curtain and a grand piano, the menu – and the prices – match the elegance of the décor. Come here to enjoy the most sophisiticated, historic side of Saint-Germain, but only if you're willing to pay for it.