Does it cost more to sit outside at a Paris Cafe than inside? If I remember from the last time I was in Paris it did not. I think it does in Italy but not in Paris. Friends insist it does.
Posted by
victoria, Canada
11507 posts
Fred, most cafes do have a different price taking a drink at the bar inside, the table inside and the table outside. This is not hidden but always clearly marked on the menu which by law is always required to be displayed outside any bar/restaurant. Cheapest is of course standing at the bar. Think of it as chair rent for enjoying the views and people watching. That said, you can sit there for hours without getting the bums rush for nursing one drink.. Best way to avoid high charges at cafes in Paris is to avoid choosing one near or with a view of a major tourist site. Obviously a cafe beside Notre Dame with a view is always busy , so they can and do charge alot more then the cafe down some sidestreet in a less touristy area. Remember tip/service charge is included, so if drinks are 5.75 leave 6 euros.. .no need to tip more!
Posted by
Oak Park, Illinois
4535 posts
In a highly touristed area with great views, outside seating will cost more. More general cafes rarely used by tourists might not.
Posted by
Los Angeles
1825 posts
Given a choice....why would you go to a cafe and not sit outside?
Posted by
SF Bay Area, CA
2030 posts
One reason -- all of the smokers have to sit outside....
Posted by
Pensacola
9110 posts
The other reason is you can stand up, slurp, and run. Yielding about three beers for the price of one.
Posted by
victoria, Canada
11507 posts
So that puts those who wish to destroy their lungs outside, and those who wish to destroy there livers far inside,, leaving only the tables in the middle for the healthy folks,( who are of course now destroying their waistlines with pastries, cheese and frites), lol