Paris Breweries: A Guide to the Best Craft Beer in the City

Think Paris is just for wine lovers? Think again. The city’s beer scene is an intriguing counter-culture movement, a rebellion against the dominance of wine, fueled by passionate brewers and a growing community of beer lovers. Paris may not be a global craft beer capital, but it offers something different—a unique mix of creativity, subversive brewing styles, and an ever-expanding collection of small breweries redefining what it means to drink beer in the City of Light. Whether you’re sipping by the Seine or discovering tucked-away microbreweries, exploring Paris’s beer culture means embracing a world where tradition meets a rebellious thirst for innovation.

In this guide, we dive deep into Paris’s brewerie scene; from the history of brewing here in Paris to the buzzing microbreweries and unforgettable beer experiences. Expect insider tips, hidden gems, and all the tools you need to navigate the City of Light’s beer scene like a seasoned local.

So, ready to swap Bordeaux for a bold IPA? Let’s raise a glass to the evolving world of Parisian craft beer and dive into this effervescent adventure!

Paris Brasserie vs Paris Brewery

Before diving into the best breweries in Paris, let’s clear up one of the biggest misconceptions visitors face. If you’re hunting for top-notch craft beer, you might be disappointed when you walk into a Parisian brasserie expecting a brewery. While brasserie literally translates to brewery, the reality is quite different.

What is a Traditional Parisian Brasserie?

A Parisian brasserie is more of a classic French café-restaurant, known for its all-day service, timeless dishes, and bustling atmosphere. Historically, brasseries were places where people could grab a quick meal and a drink, but they rarely brew their own beer. Instead, they typically serve mass-produced lagers or a limited selection of more commercial beers.

What to Expect at a Real Brewery in Paris?

If you’re looking for craft beer brewed on-site, you’ll want to seek out an actual brewery (brasserie artisanale). These are dedicated brewing spaces, often with taprooms where you can taste fresh, innovative, and locally crafted beers. Many of them experiment with styles influenced by Belgian, German, and American brewing traditions, making the Parisian craft beer scene a unique melting pot of flavors.

The Origins of the Brasserie Name

The term brasserie comes from the French word brasser, meaning to brew. While its roots are in beer production, over time, the meaning evolved into a reference for casual dining establishments rather than places that actively brew beer.

So, if you’re in Paris and craving a well-crafted pint, don’t be fooled by the name—skip the brasserie and head to a real brewery instead!

A Brief History of Beer in Paris

Paris, the eternal city of wine? Non, mon ami. It’s time to raise a pint and give beer the spotlight it deserves. Beer’s story in Paris is one of quiet resilience, bubbling innovation, and a centuries-old undercurrent of effervescence. Ever since Roman soldiers who founded the camp of Lutetia celebrated their victories with jugs of ale, beer has flowed through the veins of Parisian history. It’s a tale of survival, reinvention, and the never-ending pursuit of flavor.

Medieval Beginnings

Beer in Paris? It all started behind monastic walls in the Middle Ages. Picture this: monks brewing up liquid gold, not just to wet their whistles but as a safer alternative to the often-dodgy water of the time. These early brews were rustic, crafted with barley or wheat and spiked with herbs long before hops came swaggering onto the scene, likely smuggled in by German influence.

As Paris grew into a buzzing metropolis, the brewing craft spilled out of monasteries and onto the cobblestone streets. Enter the Corporation des Brasseurs (Brewers’ Guild), established in the 13th century. These brewers were no amateurs; they regulated quality and championed innovation, setting the stage for the city’s burgeoning beer culture. Picture the Marais and Saint-Germain-des-Prés alive with the clatter of barrels and the frothy cheer of taverns. Brewers and the Corporation des Taverniers (Tavern Keepers’ Guild) joined forces to keep the city well-watered, making beer a cornerstone of Parisian life.

Renaissance and Early Modern Period

Fast forward to the Renaissance, and beer was becoming the drink of the working class. Standardized techniques, stricter regulations, and guild-enforced quality kept the pints flowing. But let’s not sugarcoat it: wine was the reigning monarch of French culture, and beer, the plucky underdog, held its own primarily in cooler seasons when the grape harvest ran dry. Still, the groundwork was being laid for beer’s enduring role in the Parisian lifestyle.

Challenges and Resurgence

Ah, the French Revolution. Great for liberté, égalité, fraternité, not so much for guilds. The Corporation des Brasseurs faded into history, and wine tightened its grip on the French palate. But beer? It persisted. By the late 19th century, Paris was once again alive with brewing innovation, and industrial breweries were churning out lagers and ales for locals and the export market.

Industrialization and the Rise of Parisian Breweries

The 19th century? This was beer’s glow-up era. Industrialization swept through Paris, revolutionizing brewing. Out with the old, in with steam-powered machinery, refrigeration, and year-round production. Breweries like La Meuse (established 1861) and Gallia (founded 1890) led the charge, pouring crisp, German-style lagers into thirsty Parisian glasses. These weren’t just brews; they were marvels of consistency and innovation.

The vibe? Electric. Taverns in Belleville and Faubourg Saint-Antoine were buzzing hubs of life, where locals knocked back beers brewed right in their arrondissements. Beer wasn’t just a drink; it was culture in a glass, fermented with a touch of local charm and a pinch of rebellion.

Now, let’s bring it to today. Craft beer has staged a triumphant comeback. Small breweries with bold, innovative brews are reclaiming beer’s place at Paris’s table. From classic styles to modern experimental flavors, Parisian beer has never been more alive or delicious.

The Rise of Modern Craft Beer & Breweries in Paris

Paris’s beer scene has undergone a remarkable transformation. When I first moved to France in 2001, the only places to find decent beer were English pubs or Belgian beer bars. Locally brewed options were scarce, and beer culture remained firmly in the shadow of wine. Fast forward to today, and the landscape has changed dramatically.

The real shift began as young French drinkers developed a taste for IPAs. Mega breweries like Kronenbourg took notice, introducing hop-forward beers that reshaped consumer expectations. What was once a niche taste has now become a mainstream preference, influencing the growth of craft breweries across the country. As a result, France now boasts some truly exceptional local beers, available in supermarkets, bottle shops, and taprooms across Paris.

Beyond the IPA boom, the real beer geeks in France lean towards stronger, more complex styles. You’ll find an abundance of high-ABV imperial stouts, doubles, and triples, offering deep, layered flavors perfect for colder months. As summer rolls in, expect to see a surge in saisons and sour beers, reflecting the evolving preferences of the French craft beer scene.

This evolution reflects a broader trend of culinary diversification in Paris. While wine remains deeply ingrained in French culture, craft beer has carved out its own space, offering a bold and refreshing alternative. Whether you’re sipping a farmhouse ale in a trendy microbrewery or savoring a rich imperial stout in a tucked-away beer bar, Paris’s beer scene is proof that great taste knows no boundaries.. Gone are the days when Parisian beer options were limited to just being cold and wet. The evolution from sparse offerings in British and Belgian bars to a flourishing craft beer scene tells a story of taste, tradition, and transformation.

The Best Breweries in Paris

I don’t believe in making definitive lists of the “best” of something, because in my mind, the best things are constantly evolving – just like the brewery scene here in Paris. Some of the most memorable beers I’ve enjoyed in Paris don’t even come from the breweries on this list. With the high cost of space in Paris, many successful Parisian breweries eventually get bought out and move their production outside of the city. But for now, these are some of the most exciting breweries still making an impact on the Paris beer scene.

To help you navigate, I’ve broken the list down into three categories:

• Microbreweries (Brewpubs) – Small-scale breweries attached to bars, where you can drink beer brewed on-site.
• Mainstream breweries – Those now owned by large brewing groups, mass-producing beer on a wider scale.
• Artisanal breweries – Independent craft breweries still brewing within Paris.

Mainstream Breweries to Look Out For

These larger-scale breweries may have started as craft operations, but they’ve since been absorbed into bigger brewing conglomerates. While purists might turn their noses up, many of these brands still produce solid beers and are widely available across France.

• Gallia – Originally a Parisian brewery founded in 1890, Gallia was revived in 2009 and later acquired by Heineken in 2021.
• Deck & Donohue – Originally founded in Montreuil, this brewery has made a name for itself with well-balanced, flavorful beers that appeal to both craft enthusiasts and casual drinkers.
• Brasserie Parisis – A major player in the French craft beer scene, Parisis brews everything from hoppy IPAs to refreshing lagers, bringing a contemporary edge to French brewing.
• Demory Paris – With roots tracing back to the early 1900s, Demory has seen a revival, offering crisp, clean lagers and seasonal brews that are widely enjoyed across the city.

The Artisanal Paris Breweries

These independent breweries are still producing within the city, staying true to the craft beer ethos with creativity, bold flavors, and small-batch production.

• Crazy Hops – For those who want their beer with a side of madness, Crazy Hops delivers bold, unapologetic brews that break the mold. Think hoppy, experimental, and packed with personality.
  • Address: 12 Rue Claude Decaen, 75012 Paris
  • Online Purchase: Availability varies; check local craft beer retailers or visit their brewery.
• Brasserie de l’Être – This brewery’s ethos is rooted in creativity and sustainability, offering artisanal beers brewed with local ingredients. Their quirky labels and even quirkier flavors make them a standout.
  • Address: 7 ter Rue Duvergier, 75019 Paris
  • Online Purchase
• O’clock Brewing – Clocking in with precision and quality, O’clock Brewing serves up a range of beers that cater to every palate. Their commitment to the craft shines through in every sip.
  • Address: 66 Rue de la Mare, 75020 Paris
  • Online Purchase
• BapBap – Short for “Bière à Paris, Brassée à Paris,” BapBap is one of the city’s most well-known craft breweries, producing a wide range of beers from juicy IPAs to refreshing lagers.
  • Address: 79 Rue Saint-Maur, 75011 Paris
  • Online Purchase
• La Parisienne – This brewery keeps its production within the city limits, embracing local ingredients and techniques to create distinctly Parisian craft beers.

Paris Brew Pubs & Microbreweries

These are smaller-scale breweries that double as bars, where the beer is brewed on-site and served fresh. A must-visit for any craft beer lover.

• Brasserie de la Goutte d’Or Nestled in the vibrant Goutte d’Or neighborhood, this microbrewery is a celebration of Paris’s multicultural spirit. Their beers are inspired by local flavors, making each pint a unique journey.
  • Address: 28 Rue de la Goutte d’Or, 75018 Paris
  • Google Maps: Brasserie de la Goutte d’Or
• Les Cuves de Fauve Part brewpub, part creative playground, Les Cuves de Fauve combines top-notch brewing with a foodie’s dream menu. It’s a feast for the senses.
  • Address: 64 Rue de Charonne, 75011 Paris
  • Google Maps: Les Cuves de Fauve
• Paname Brewing Company With its stunning canal-side location, Paname Brewing Company pairs its craft beers with unbeatable views. Their innovative brews and relaxed vibe make it a must-visit.
  • Address: 41 Quai de la Loire, 75019 Paris
  • Google Maps: Paname Brewing Company

Whether you’re into bold IPAs, experimental brews, or just want to sip a pint by the canal, Paris has a beer scene that’s as diverse as its arrondissements. From historic breweries to trendy brewpubs, there’s always something new to discover, and each pint tells its own unique story.

Want more tips for navigating Paris’s beer scene? Check out my Paris Craft Beer Google Map for even more breweries and bars worth visiting during your time in the city. Cheers to exploring every last drop!

Unique Brewery Experiences in Paris

As a beer geek who’s called Paris home for over a decade, I’ve had the chance to immerse myself in some of the city’s most unique beer experiences. From volunteering at the Paris Beer Week to brewing my own beer alongside the ex-head brewer of Frog Pubs at Brew Unique, it’s been an unforgettable journey. Brewing my own beer was a thrill—though the weeks of waiting for it to finish tested my patience!

If you’re looking to dive into the Parisian beer scene without the wait, your best bet is to visit a great bottle shop or beer bar. Start with a classic: order the saucisson and cheese platter and pair it with a journey down the tap list. Begin with the lighter beers and gradually work your way to the bold, strong brews. Trust me, it’s an adventure worth savoring.

Beer and Food Pairing Experiences

Most specialist beer spots in Paris will have saucisson and cheese on the menu, but the real challenge? Finding the perfect beer to pair with them. It’s an art form, really, and one worth savoring.

But this is France, after all. For a truly gastronomic treat, head to spots like La Fine Mousse, where expertly curated beer and food pairings take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey. Here, beer is elevated to a culinary experience, and every sip and bite works in perfect harmony to showcase the magic of craft brewing.

Paris Beer Festivals

Throughout the year in Paris there are plenty of beer festivals that take place, thanks to the fact that the scene is still small you will get the chance to meet members of some of the best brewing teams in France. My favourite and one you should deffinately mark your calendar for is the Paris Beer Week 19 to 25th of May, where the city’s best breweries come together to celebrate craft beer in all its forms.

For other beer festivals check out our ultimate french foodie calendar, this get update regularly with beer festivals as the dates are announced.

Guided Beer Tours

Want a custom beer adventure? Message me, and we can create a personalized beer tour of Paris, tailored to your tastes and interests.

Beer Bottle Shops

Bring a piece of Paris home by visiting the city’s top craft beer shops, such as La Cave à Bulles, Biérocratie, La Caisse de Bières, and BEER Paris. Each shop offers a curated selection of local and international brews. Worth a stop and a chat with the

Conclusion: Join the Parisian Craft Beer Conversation

Paris’s beer scene is a story of resilience, creativity, and cultural fusion—a true delight for beer lovers. From the historic cobblestones of the Marais to trendy neighborhoods buzzing with craft innovation, every pint here tells a story worth savoring. Whether you’re drawn to the cozy warmth of a hidden bar or the lively energy of a bustling brewpub by the canal, Paris has something to surprise and delight every beer enthusiast.

But now, I want to hear from you! Have you explored the Parisian craft beer scene? What’s your favorite brewery or beer spot in the city? Share your experiences, recommendations, and best beer discoveries in the comments below. Let’s build a go-to resource for beer lovers visiting Paris!

If you snap a great pint, tag me on Untappd or Instagram—I’d love to see what you’re drinking. And if you’re planning a trip and need more personalized beer recommendations, don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Cheers to great pints, amazing stories, and the spirit of exploration. Santé!

Chef Tris

Food Tour Guide

From the bustling streets of Paris to the heat of a professional kitchen, my life has always revolved around food. A Brit who moved to France at 16, I trained as a chef in a Parisian palace kitchen at 18 and have spent decades cooking, eating, and living like the French.

By day, I run kitchens and events, but Eat Like The French is my side hustle—a way to share my passion for French food through writing and food tours. After a detour into tech recruitment, I returned to what I love most: cooking and storytelling—one dish, one tour, and one bite at a time.