What To Do in Paris' 11th Arrondissement
Did someone say ’The best arrondissement in Paris?’ The beating heart of Paris’ food scene has recently landed in a new district. The 11th has taken the crown from the Marais, and is the spot for food, drinks and some of the best coffee in town. This arrondissement used to be known for its nightlife, and if you’re looking for a party you will definitely find one here, but lately the food scene has been taking over the streets north of Bastille. Not just for foodies though, you’ll find some great alternative arts and culture here, as well as a few places for some peace and quiet. The 11th really has it all.
Is the 11th Arrondissement in Paris Safe?
You may be wondering this, since the 11th arrondissement is not one of the typical touristy places in the City of Light. However, we can reassure that this massive arrondissement is very safe. Typically in Paris, we recommend exercising caution in the evenings around train stations and the upper canal - neither of which exist in the 11th arrondissement. There also aren’t any large monuments or attractions, so typically pickpockets are less of an issue. Several members of our team have/do live here and feel consistently very safe.
What to See in Paris 11th Arrondissement
Atelier des Lumières
If the weather is proving petulant, head toward l’Atelier des Lumières. This is a popular attraction in Paris and for good reason, it’s basically an hour-long immersive experience featuring an ever-changing selection of artists. Get out of the rain and enjoy diving into the works of famous French painters, or Ancient Egypt, and even the occasional coiffed cartoon detective…
Bastille Market
Did you know that each arrondissement has its own outdoor market twice a week? That makes 40 in Paris every week! Bastille market is one of the best in town and you’ll find it snaking up the boulevard every Thursday and Sunday. Blend in with the locals at the fromagerie or grab a falafel wrap for a quick and easy lunch. You can find the best street food in Paris here.
Where to Eat and Drink in the 11th Arrondissement of Paris
Fauna
Fauna is still fairly new to the Paris coffee scene, and it’s a must-visit on your trip to Paris, if you’re a coffee lover. They do everything well, but their iced coffee and cardamom buns are two of our favorite indulgences. They’ve also been known to host a pop-up brunch from time to time, so keep an eye out when you’re in town.
Kott
This cute little specialty coffee shop is located in a pedestrian zone of the 11th. She’s Korean and he’s French; they’re in love with each other and with speciality coffee’ is how they say it, and this place is a perfect rest stop for a cold brew or an einspänner if you’re feeling sweet. Be advised, no wifi and no laptops so sit bring a friend or a good book.
Looking for more coffee in Paris? We’ve got you covered with our top roasters in Paris.
Kubri
Our favorite Lebanese restaurant in Paris (and there are a few to choose from). Kubri doesn’t serve shawarma, that remains a separate category, but for a sit down meal, it is a hard contender in all categories. Everything is good. The chicken is definitely a must, along with every side we’ve tried here (which is just about all of them) like the fried halloumi. It’s bound to be one of the most flavor-packed meals of your time in Paris. We highly recommend making reservations because it’s officially on the map these days.
Speaking of maps, looking for one with the best places to eat and drink in Paris? Then look no further: the map in the Paris in My Pocket Guide is all you need.
OOBATZ
Let’s try our luck at Oobatz, our good friend Dan’s restaurant and possibly the best pizza in the world. It isn’t New York, it isn’t Neapolitan, it’s related yet something else. His sourdough is so light you’ll hardly notice it, there’s love and care in the sauce, and such a great balance of quality ingredients… and don’t forget the desserts! They’ve got a fantastic wine selection, their own beer as well, and the pizza is phenomenal. If you want to reserve, they open bookings 15 days in advance, so set your alarm!
Dirty Lemon
This woman-owned, Queer-friendly spot is a must-visit for cocktail lovers. Formerly a chef at some of the most prestigious addresses in town, chef Ruba brings a Mediterranean spin to the drinks and small plates. Try the Lebanese girlfriend with almond infused Shochu alongside bitter Arak and apricot liqueur. And don’t skip out on the dirty fries, the most famous dish on the menu.
Liquiderie
A bar that almost no tourist will ever find due to its location and the sheer lack of advertising. There isn’t even a sign hanging outside (and it’s currently covered in scaffolding to obscure it even more). It is perfect for mixed groups because they have both local beer and natural wine ON TAP, in equal measure. Want your own bottle of orange wine or a sparkly ‘pet nat?’ They’ve got a whole refrigerated wall full. The food here is very much on the snack side though, so be sure to eat something before you rock up.
Best Places to Hang Out in the 11th Arrondissement
Rue Jean-Pierre Timbaud
In competition for the best foodie street in town, rue Jean-Pierre Timbaud is bursting with what makes the 11th so unique. Test the only pepperoni pizza in Paris at Rori (between Rori and OOBATZ, Jay claims there’s no other pizza worth eating in Paris). The Hood is some of the best Singaporean food you’ll find in Paris (and they do incredible donuts across the street at Nonette alongside the best Bàhn Mí in the 11th). Finish your night at fifty-fifty for a cocktail because seriously, you could spend an entire day and never leave this street (you might even end up clubbing at L'Alimentation Générale down the street if the slew of dive bars here doesn’t do it for you).
Crossing Rue Jean-Pierre Timbaud, is another great street- Rue Saint-Maur. Follow this in either direction and you’ll find your way to many of our other favorite places, like Chanceux.
Square Maurice-Gardette
There’s a lot to see in the 11th and sometimes you need to take the weight off and relax. Head to the park at square Maurice-Gardette and take a nap on the grass or recline on a classic Parisian park bench. Better yet, The Beans on Fire has a terrace next door so drop in for a coffee, a cookie (or three), and relax back in the sunshine.
If you’re a foodie in Paris it’d be a crime to skip the 11th. We could write about twenty articles about just this neighborhood and maybe scratch the surface. For a more exhaustive look you’ll need to peek inside our Guide. Trust us, you don’t want to miss out. There is never a reason to have a bad meal in Paris. While the 11th might be the arrondissement on the radar right now, the 12e is a little further off the beaten path. Check back tomorrow to find out what to see and do (and eat) in Paris’ second hidden gem, the 12e.
