Places We Love: Café Paris in Hamburg – The Quintessential French Bistro

A French bistro in Germany you say? How good, and how authentic can that be? Well, the answer is – pretty darn. This legendary French bistro first opened it’s doors in 1880, and has been a hotspot for both French and German cosmopolites ever since.

Even though it’s placed smack in the middle of the beautiful city of Hamburg, some 90 miles south of the Northern German border to Denmark, Café Paris actually feels like its a little tucked away from the masses. And passing the somewhat anonymous entrance, you are immediately transferred from today’s Hamburg to Paris in the 1890’s. Gorgeous tiled walls and an arched ceiling frames the large room, creating an almost church like feeling.

A visit to Café Paris is a chance to savor Old-World elegance and historic design. The building was once a butcher’s hall, and remnants of that era are still visible in some of the tilework. Over the years, Café Paris has become a beloved fixture for locals looking for a taste of classic French cooking, as well as an architectural gem that captivates every visitor.

The staff, almost exclusively French, has that perfect Parisian bistro attitude. Proud, slightly rushed, but always friendly and professional. And the guests – intellectuals and business types blend with the many French expats who seem to have frequented the Café Paris for decades. The total impression: a cocktail that ends up being the quintessential French bistro experience.

For lunch and dinner, many come for their steak frites: the perfect French bistro-dish of seared steak (cooked to your preference) served alongside crisp, golden fries. The classic sauce au poivre (pepper sauce) or a side of béarnaise can often accompany it. Another great choice is the moules marinières (mussels in white wine), when they’re in season. If you’re looking for something lighter, you’ll likely find a fresh fish of the day, often pan-seared and accompanied by seasonal vegetables—Hamburg’s proximity to the North Sea influences how seriously they take their seafood.

Café Paris is a restaurant with that intangible quality that cannot be built in with accessories or decor, but has to be earned and acquired over the course of many years. I believe it’s called soul.

So have a seat at the bar, order a plat du jour or a dozen oysters and a glass of Champagne, and just breathe in the ambiance of a really really good bistro.

Café Paris
Rathausstraße 4
20095 Hamburg, Germany
+49 040 32527777

FAQ: Café Paris in Hamburg

When was Café Paris established?
Café Paris first opened its doors in 1880 and has since become a beloved institution, blending French culinary traditions with Hamburg’s unique cultural flair.

What is the interior like at Café Paris?
The interior is a beautifully preserved piece of history. Tiled walls, an arched ceiling, and original design elements from its days as a butcher’s hall create a grand, almost church-like setting that transports you straight to 1890s Paris.

Which dishes should I try at Café Paris?
Popular classics include steak frites (often served with pepper sauce or béarnaise) and moules marinières in season. There’s also usually a fresh fish of the day, and delicious seafood.

Where is Café Paris located in Hamburg?
You’ll find it centrally located at Rathausstraße 4, just steps away from the historic Hamburg Rathaus. Despite its central location, the cozy, timeless atmosphere feels delightfully tucked away from the everyday bustle.

If you liked this, you are going to love these restaurants too:

A Hidden Gem in Hudson: Dining at The Maker Restaurant

Meet the Chefs Redefining Scottsdale’s Food Scene

Rui Silvestre Takes Over Fifty Seconds: Sky-High Gastronomy in Lisbon