% ARABICA
If you love specialty coffee and find yourself in Paris, % Arabica Paris is an essential stop. Born in Kyoto in 2014, this Japanese coffee chain has conquered the world with its minimalist design and unparalleled coffee quality. In Paris, % Arabica opened its first locations in iconic spots, quickly becoming a reference point for coffee enthusiasts and travelers alike.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through the brand’s story, the Paris locations, what to order, and how to plan your visit. If you’re looking for % Arabica Paris, you’ve come to the right place.
1. The Story of % Arabica: From Kyoto to the World
Founder Kenneth Shoji wanted to create a coffee experience that combined Japanese hospitality with the finest arabica beans sourced from Hawaii, Jamaica, and Ethiopia. The first shop opened in the historic Higashiyama district of Kyoto, and today % Arabica boasts over 100 locations in more than 20 countries.
The name “% Arabica” reflects the commitment to using only high-quality arabica beans, roasted carefully to highlight every aromatic nuance. Each location features clean architecture, often with large glass windows and wooden furnishings, inviting visitors to pause and observe the coffee extraction process.
2. % Arabica Locations in Paris
You’ll find three main % Arabica coffee shops in Paris, each with its own unique character.
📍 % Arabica Palais Royal
Located in the heart of the Palais Royal, this is one of the most photographed coffee shops in the city. The white facade and steel chairs create a perfect contrast with the surrounding garden.
Address: 93 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris
Hours: Daily 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
📍 % Arabica Louvre
Just outside the Louvre museum, this spot is ideal for a break between masterpieces. It offers espresso, latte art, and fresh pastries.
Address: 14 Rue de Valois, 75001 Paris
Hours: Monday–Saturday 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM, Sunday 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
📍 % Arabica Montmartre
Located in the lively Montmartre district, this location blends a bohemian atmosphere with the brand’s contemporary design. It’s perfect for a pause after visiting the Sacré-Cœur.
Address: 52 Rue de Douai, 75009 Paris
Hours: Daily 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
3. What to Order at % Arabica Paris
The menu is intentionally simple to let the coffee shine. Must-try items include:
Espresso – A 100% arabica blend, available as single or double shot. Balanced flavor with notes of dried fruit and chocolate.
Latte Macchiato – A classic served in handmade ceramic cups, with velvety foam.
Pour-over Coffee – Prepared with V60 or Aeropress. The beans change weekly based on available roasts.
Matcha Latte – A nod to the brand’s Japanese origins, made with high-quality matcha powder.
Don’t forget to buy a bag of freshly roasted beans to take home. Each package shows the roast date and tasting notes.
4. How to Get to the Coffee Shops
All locations are well served by public transport. For Palais Royal, take metro line 1 or 7 to Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre. For Montmartre, take line 2 to Blanche station and walk a few minutes. Each café is also easily reachable by bike or Vélib’ bike-sharing.
If you prefer an interactive map, here are the precise coordinates from OpenStreetMap:
Palais Royal:
48.8648, 2.3360Louvre:
48.8623, 2.3367Montmartre:
48.8828, 2.3329
5. Why Choose % Arabica Paris
Paris has many excellent coffee shops, but % Arabica Paris stands out for three reasons:
Curated Design – Every space is designed to enhance the sensory experience of coffee.
Barista Training – Staff undergo rigorous internal training to guarantee excellence in every cup.
International Atmosphere – You’ll feel welcomed in an environment that combines Japanese precision with Parisian vibrancy.
6. Fun Facts & Reviews
Travelers on Tripadvisor and Google Maps praise the friendly staff and the photogenic beauty of the locations. Many recommend arriving early in the morning to avoid lines, especially at Palais Royal, where queues can exceed 20 minutes on weekends.
A fun fact: the logo with the “%” symbol was designed by Japanese artist Yūsuke Seki and represents the pursuit of perfection – a nod to the concept of “100%” that is never fully reached but always strived for.
7. Pillar Content & Related Resources
This article is part of a pillar content series dedicated to the best coffee shops in Europe. To go deeper, check out:
5 Must-Visit Coffee Shops in Paris
How to Recognize Specialty Coffee
A Guide to Coffee Roasts: Light, Medium, Dark
Whether you’re a traveler seeking authentic Japanese coffee or a Parisian local who loves discovering new spots, % Arabica Paris will surprise you. With its iconic locations, impeccable service, and top‑tier ingredients, it is an unmissable destination for any coffee lover.
Check out our guide to the best coffee shops in Paris