For U.S. travelers who want a taste of home — with a Parisian twist
The Most Beautiful American Addresses in Paris
For U.S. travelers who want a taste of home — with a Parisian twist
Paris and America share a long, intertwined history. From the jazz age writers of the 1920s to today’s expat entrepreneurs, the city has long welcomed American culture. Whether you’re craving a proper Bloody Mary, a California-inspired brunch, a classic diner breakfast, or even a quiet English-language library near the Eiffel Tower, Paris delivers.
Here are some of the most iconic and beloved American spots in the French capital — perfect additions to your Le Marais itinerary.
🍸 Harry’s New York Bar – A Living Legend Since 1911
The story begins in 1911 with Tod Sloan, a former American jockey who anticipated Prohibition in the United States. He dismantled a New York bar and rebuilt it in Paris, creating what would become one of the city’s most legendary institutions.
Located near Place Vendôme, Harry’s quickly became a gathering place for American expatriates and artists. Ernest Hemingway, Coco Chanel, Humphrey Bogart, and the Duke of Windsor were among its famous patrons. Legend has it that George Gershwin composed An American in Paris on the bar’s basement piano.
Harry’s is also credited with inventing the Bloody Mary in 1921. To this day, bartenders in crisp white jackets uphold a tradition of precision and excellence. Since 1924, the bar has hosted its famous “straw vote” during U.S. presidential elections — a mock election for American expats that has often mirrored the real results.
Address: 5 rue Daunou, Paris 2
Open daily from noon; live music from 10 p.m.
🌴 Montecito – California Chic at the Kimpton St Honoré Paris
In the heart of the Opéra district, Montecito brings a refined California vibe to Paris. Located inside the elegant Kimpton St Honoré hotel, the restaurant blends West Coast flavors with French culinary tradition.
Expect shareable starters like guacamole with lime and pico de gallo, smoky pink hummus with roasted poppy seeds, and an elevated Mac & Cheese with caramelized onions and a cheddar–Gruyère blend. The San Francisco-style cioppino — a seafood stew with sea bass and shellfish — is a standout.
Desserts include hibiscus pineapple with coconut ice cream and dulce de leche cheesecake topped with macadamia nuts. The breakfast menu, open to non-hotel guests, features Huevos Rancheros and Baja avocado toast — rare finds in Paris.
Address: 27–29 boulevard des Capucines, Paris 2
🥞 Breakfast in America – A True American Diner Experience
Founded in 2003 by American expat Craig Carlson, Breakfast in America recreates the nostalgic atmosphere of a 1950s diner. Think red vinyl booths, chrome stools, and vintage posters.
The menu delivers exactly what homesick Americans crave: fluffy pancakes with maple syrup, scrambled eggs with crispy bacon, juicy burgers, golden fries, thick milkshakes, brownies, and cheesecake.
There are two locations — one in the Latin Quarter and one in Le Marais. The Sunday brunch (served until 5 p.m.) has become something of a Paris institution.
Addresses:
17 rue des Écoles, Paris 5
4 rue Malher, Paris 4 (Le Marais)
Open daily from 8:30 a.m.
🛒 The Real McCoy – A Slice of the U.S. in the 7th
Near École Militaire, The Real McCoy is an unofficial embassy of American comfort food. This specialty grocery store is a haven for expats looking for peanut butter, marshmallows, barbecue sauces, breakfast cereals, and other hard-to-find staples.
Whether Democrat or Republican, expat or tourist, everyone agrees: the product selection is excellent.
Address: 194 rue de Grenelle, Paris 7
Open Tuesday through Saturday.
📚 American Library in Paris – A Literary Landmark
A short walk from the Eiffel Tower, the American Library in Paris is one of the city’s most meaningful cultural institutions. Founded in 1920 from books sent to American soldiers during World War I, it is now the largest English-language lending library in continental Europe.
During World War II, the library famously remained open under Nazi occupation and discreetly delivered books to Jewish members who were banned from entering.
Frequented by Gertrude Stein, Ernest Hemingway, and Henry Miller, the library now houses more than 100,000 volumes and hosts literary events, talks, and writing workshops.
Address: 10 rue du Général Camou, Paris 7
Open daily except Monday.
Why This Matters for Your Stay in Paris
For American travelers, these places offer familiarity — but also a reminder of the long-standing cultural bridge between Paris and the United States.
If you’re planning a trip and want to experience both authentic Parisian charm and a few comforting American touches, Le Marais is an ideal base. From classic diners to literary landmarks and legendary cocktail bars, everything is within easy reach.
And if you’re looking for a spacious 4-bedroom loft in the heart of Le Marais — perfect for families or groups — explore our private apartment just steps from many of these iconic spots.