When it comes to crêpes and galettes in Paris, Breizh Café is a name that comes up again and again. And for good reason—this place has mastered the art of transforming simple Breton classics into something unforgettable. With 12 locations across the city, including one that made it onto our best restaurants in Marais list, you might wonder which one to try, but let me make it easy for you: head straight to the Saint-Germain-des-Prés spot on 1 Rue de l’Odéon.
It’s my personal favorite, and here’s why: the atmosphere. The open kitchen at the center of the restaurant is alive—chefs flipping galettes and flambéing crêpes right before your eyes, filling the space with those rich, buttery aromas that instantly make your mouth water. Add in the buzz of the young, efficient staff and the Parisian chatter around you, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a memorable meal.
Oh, and if the weather’s good, grab a seat outside. There’s nothing better than savoring a buckwheat galette while people-watching in one of Paris’s most charming neighborhoods.
Location and Ambiance
Saint-Germain-des-Prés is iconic—a postcard-perfect slice of Paris filled with bookstores, boutiques, and that effortless charm you came to the city for. Breizh Café fits right in, offering a mix of energy and coziness that makes it ideal for solo diners, couples, and small groups alike.
The open kitchen is the heart of the restaurant, and I love how it brings a sense of theater to the dining experience. You feel connected to the process—watching crêpes bubble on the hot plates, seeing flames leap up from a crêpe Suzette being flambéed tableside. It’s vibrant, it’s warm, and it’s exactly what you’d want from a quintessential Parisian meal.
Outside, the terrace seating is a dream. Order a cider, lean back, and watch the world go by—it doesn’t get much better than that.
The Food: Crêpes and Galettes Done Right
If you’ve never had a buckwheat galette before, Breizh Café is the place to start. These galettes are crispy, golden-edged, and generously filled with high-quality ingredients. My go-to is the galette complète—simple but perfect, with ham, gooey cheese, and a sunny-side-up egg. The balance of textures and flavors hits every mark.
For dessert, you have to try the crêpe Suzette. It’s flambéed right in front of you, and let me tell you, it’s a showstopper. The orange zest caramelizing in the flames, the buttery sauce soaking into the delicate crêpe… It’s impossible not to be completely smitten.
Beyond the classics, the menu is filled with creative options featuring seasonal ingredients—everything from artichokes to fresh strawberries, depending on the time of year. The variety ensures you’ll want to come back just to see what’s new.
Pair your meal with one of their Breton ciders. They come served in traditional ceramic bowls and have the perfect crisp, slightly sweet finish to balance out the richness of the crêpes.
Service and Experience
The team at Breizh Café is young, lively, and impressively professional. The service is quick and organized, even when the place is bustling, which it often is.
What I appreciate most is the balance they strike—efficient without ever feeling rushed. Whether you’re popping in for a quick lunch or settling in for a longer dinner, the experience is seamless.
Pricing and Value
For the quality of the food, the location, and the experience, Breizh Café is incredibly well-priced. Portion sizes are exactly what they should be—not too small, not over the top—and the quality of the ingredients really shines through.
It’s not the cheapest crêperie in Paris, but considering the care and craft that go into each dish, it’s worth every penny. However, if you’re looking for a cheaper alternative, check out our post on eating in Paris on a budget here.
Final Thoughts
Would I recommend Breizh Café? Absolutely. Whether you’re a crêpe fanatic, a lover of French cuisine, or just someone looking for a cozy, delicious meal, this spot hits all the right notes.
It’s perfect for:
- Couples looking for a relaxed but special meal.
- Solo travelers who want to enjoy a true Parisian experience.
- Families looking for a crowd-pleasing option.
And yes, it’s worth revisiting—especially if you’re like me and need to try every seasonal galette they put on the menu.
Quick Tips
- Make a reservation, especially for dinner—this place fills up fast.
- Sit outside if the weather allows. You’ll thank me later.
- Don’t skip the cider—it’s the perfect companion to their galettes.
- For dessert, the crêpe Suzette is a must.
Breizh Café isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience—one that brings a little slice of Brittany to the heart of Paris. And trust me, once you’ve had your first bite, you’ll already be planning your next visit.
Sources:
Eating Europe. (n.d.). Best restaurants in Le Marais, Paris. Retrieved December 5, 2024, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/blog/best-restaurants-in-le-marais-paris/
Breizh Café. (n.d.). Retrieved December 5, 2024, from https://www.breizhcafe.com/
Breizh Café. (n.d.). Breizh Café Odéon. Retrieved December 5, 2024, from https://www.breizhcafe.com/breizh-cafe-odeon
Eating Europe. (n.d.). Where to eat in Paris on a budget. Retrieved December 5, 2024, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/blog/where-to-eat-in-paris-on-a-budget/