Frenchs joie de vivre is all about eating, drinking and socialising. And Parisians love few things more than a glass of wine and a nibble with friends at one of these top Paris wine bars.
These great spots combine interesting wines, great nibbles and a welcoming atmospheres with plenty of Parisian charm. Whether your taste runs to Bordeaux, Jura or somewhere in between, these wine bars will surprise and delight with great value drops from the best artisanal winemakers.
Cave du Clown (11th arr.)
The Clown Bar is a former dining room for the clowns of the nearby Cirque d’Hiver (immortalised in the hand-painted tiles and gorgeous ceiling) is now one of Paris’ go-to wine bars. Wines are natural, food is edgy and staff are switched on and willing to open something different to accommodate guests’ interests.
Willi’s Wine Bar (1st arr.)
Established in 1980 by an Englishman who loves French wine and known for its wonderful poster collection, Willi’s is a Parisian institution. Whether it’s a glass of Côtes du Rhône at the long oak bar with some great cheese or several glasses over the €38 3-course dinner menu, you’ll love it.
Septime la Cave (11th arr.)
This bottle shop aligned with the popular Septime restaurant offers wine to go, a very reasonable €7 corkage if you want to buy and drink there and a great-value selection by the glass. Snacks include some great charcuterie, though finding somewhere to sit and enjoy it can prove challenging unless you’re early.
L’Avant Comptoir de la Mer (6th arr.)
Between them, Yves Camdeborde’s three Parisian L’Avant Comptoir bars offer something for everyone. His seafood-focused wine bar, de la Mer, features oysters from the best growers around the country. Other aquatic delights include the likes of crunchy salmon croquettes and refreshing cod and lime tartare. Plus a great range of good-value wines, friendly staff and a lively atmosphere.
L’Avant Comptoir de la Terre (6th arr.)
De la Terre was the first L’Avant Comptoir to open, in 2010 next door to Le Comptoir bistro as a ‘waiting room’ for the bistro’s guests. It’s standing room only with menu cards hung from the ceiling showing Basque-inspired meaty tapas-style snacks. There’s a great range of charcuterie on display too as well as huge glass-fronted wine fridges.
Prices correct at time of writing.
Updated 21 Dec 2024
