Copains Paris Review: A Chic All-Day Café for Pastries, Brunch, and Laid-Back Vibes

Photo credit: Copains

Copains is a fresh take on the French all-day spot, blending boulangerie, brunch hangout, and modern coffee shop all in one. What sets it apart is its 100% gluten-free philosophy. Yes, everything here (from the golden croissants to the rustic loaves and buttery cakes) is completely gluten-free, but you wouldn’t know it from the taste. What started as a bold idea in a city that takes its carbs seriously has now grown into a small network of stylish spots across Paris.

Copains attracts a mix of brunch lovers, young professionals, and casual passersby. It’s the kind of place where freelancers tap away on laptops beside couples sharing pastries, and families pop in for a weekend treat. Whether you’re stopping by for a coffee or settling in for a lazy brunch, it’s a place that feels familiar but just a little fresher.

Location and Ambiance

Address: 60 Rue Tiquetonne, 75002 Paris, France

Located in a lively corner of Paris (exact location varies, as they have multiple shops), the Copains I visited was easy to spot with its minimal branding and stylish glass front. Inside, the vibe was clean and cozy, soft wood accents, neutral tones, and a calm energy that makes you want to linger. There are indoor tables for sitting down with friends or reading solo, and a few outdoor seats if the weather’s playing nice.

I went on a sunny afternoon and sat outside, letting the breeze and city sounds blend with the clinking of cutlery and conversation. The overall feel? Relaxed but polished. Not overly curated or fussy, just good design and good food doing what they do best.

Menu & Signature Offerings

Copains reimagines traditional Parisian café fare, all gluten-free, but none of it feels “alternative.” The pastry counter is front and center, and it’s hard not to pause in admiration: glossy lemon tarts, dark chocolate cake slices, rich financiers, and their signature viennoiseries that look straight out of a top-tier pâtisserie.

I opted for a brunch-style visit: a savory tartine paired with a fresh juice, followed by a pastry and coffee. There are also hearty lunch options like toast-based plates, grain bowls, and baked seasonal specials. From what I saw and heard, the most popular items tend to rotate with the seasons, but there’s always something sweet and something savory to balance things out.

Beverages & Pairings

Coffee is done right here, no burnt espresso or watery cappuccinos in sight. The barista offered a selection of espresso-based drinks, and I went with a flat white that was foamy and smooth. For non-coffee drinkers, there’s fresh juice (mine was a ginger-carrot combo), matcha, and even kombucha on the menu.

Later in the day, you’ll find a few light aperitifs available. I didn’t go for a glass of wine this time, but a couple next to me shared a pastry board with glasses of sparkling rosé, definitely a good spot if you want something light but celebratory.

Taste, Portion & Presentation

What stood out most was the balance between indulgence and freshness. The tartine was topped with seasonal vegetables and a creamy spread, seasoned just right. The pastry, a pistachio-raspberry number, was rich without being heavy.

Everything was plated simply but neatly. There’s no unnecessary flourish, but also no sense of rush. Portions felt generous enough for a proper meal but not oversized. You could easily order a drink, one plate, and still have room for dessert which, honestly, you should make room for.

Service & Customer Experience

Service was friendly and casual. I ordered at the counter, and the staff patiently explained the ingredients and made suggestions when I hesitated. Their English was excellent, and even though the line grew behind me, there was no pressure.

That said, personalized service does come with a wait, once there are more than three people ahead of you, things slow down a bit. But if you’re not in a rush, it feels more like a pause than a delay. Food is prepared fresh and brought to your table.

Pricing & Value

Most brunch plates hover around €12 to €18, with Parisian pastries starting at around €3.50 and coffee between €3 and €5. It’s definitely not your cheapest grab-and-go option, but considering the quality (and the gluten-free aspect), it felt fair.

For a full brunch with drink and dessert, expect to spend around €25. Given the relaxed ambiance, fresh ingredients, and the care that goes into each order, it feels like solid value, a casual splurge, but not an extravagant one.

Why Visit Copains?

What makes Copains special is the mix of great food, gluten-free innovation, and a laid-back Parisian vibe. It’s perfect for brunch with a friend, a solo pastry break, a light aperitivo at the end of the day, or as a stop on a Paris food tour. The setting is beautiful but approachable, and the menu hits that sweet spot between traditional and thoughtful.

Whether you’re gluten-free or just curious, this is one of those places that proves dietary restrictions don’t have to mean compromise.

Final Tips and Recommendations

Take a morning food tour across Paris if you want the best pastry selection, some sell out by late afternoon. Mid-morning and just after lunch are the quietest times to grab a table. If you’re not sure what to try first, start with a pastry + coffee combo, then build your way up to their tartines or brunch boards.

A local tip: Their lemon meringue tart is low-key famous. Also, try to snag a spot by the window or on the sidewalk if it’s sunny, it adds so much to the experience.

FAQs

Do they take reservations or is it walk-in only?
Walk-in only, no bookings.

Is it family-friendly and stroller-accessible?
Yes, very! Space inside is a bit tight but manageable.

Do they offer takeaway or delivery?
Yes, everything is prepared to order and easy to take away.

Is Wi-Fi available for those wanting to work?
Wi-Fi available at most locations and yes, you’ll see laptops open.

Sources:

Eating Europe. (n.d.). Paris morning tour. Eating Europe. Retrieved October 21, 2025, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/paris/paris-morning-tour/

Copains Paris. (n.d.). Copains Paris. Retrieved October 21, 2025, from https://www.copains-paris.com/

Eating Europe. (n.d.). Best bakeries in Paris. Eating Europe Blog. Retrieved October 21, 2025, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/blog/best-bakeries-in-paris/

Eating Europe. (n.d.). Best cafes in Paris. Eating Europe Blog. Retrieved October 21, 2025, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/blog/best-cafes-in-paris/

Eating Europe. (n.d.). Paris food tours. Eating Europe. Retrieved October 21, 2025, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/paris/