Cafe de Paris Monaco: Make It Unforgettable

The minute you step outside the Monte Carlo Casino, the energy from the square is unmistakable. Cafe de Paris Monaco grabs your attention with its iconic terrace—everyone comes here for a reason. It's not some random tourist trap. Locals and travelers rub elbows, watching flashy cars roll by and the world go about its business.

If you’re traveling to Monaco, you want to make every meal count. So, don’t just wing it—Cafe de Paris is one of those places that can feel overwhelming if you don’t have a game plan. The menus have French and Mediterranean classics, sure, but certain dishes shine more than others. And yeah, prices are steep, but I’ll show you a couple of easy hacks to stretch your budget without sacrificing the experience.

Timing is everything. Show up mid-afternoon, and you can skip the tourist crush. Early morning? You’ll catch locals grabbing coffee and flaky pastries before the crowds. There’s more to this cafe than ordering coffee and snapping a photo—if you want to feel like a Monaco insider, there are little details you won’t want to miss.

• Why Cafe de Paris Monaco Stands Out
• Where It's Located and How to Get There
• Best Times to Visit (and When to Avoid)
• Must-Try Dishes and Drinks
• People-Watching Like a Local
• Tips for Scoring a Great Table and Saving Money

Why Cafe de Paris Monaco Stands Out

Cafe de Paris Monaco isn’t your typical coffee spot—it’s basically the outdoor living room of Monte Carlo. Opened in 1868, this place has watched the city change for over 150 years. It’s got Art Deco style everywhere you look, and it sits right next to the famous Casino de Monte-Carlo. That means you’re people-watching some of the world’s wealthiest and most interesting visitors while soaking in the vibe.

One of the reasons this spot feels special is its connection to big moments in Monaco’s history. Poker champions, royalty, movie stars—they’ve all had a meal, coffee, or drink here. In fact, in 2019, the cafe pulled in crowds of over 600,000 visitors just for its classic terrace tables, according to Monaco Tribune.

Cafe de Paris Monaco is always buzzing, yet it never looks worn out. The staff treats you with respect, even if you’re grabbing a single espresso. There’s something about sitting down here and just people-watching, especially if you snag a table outside. Here, you see high rollers step into luxury cars, tourists marvel at the casino, and business folks striking deals.

“The Cafe de Paris terrace is the world’s best stage for watching life unfold in Monte Carlo.” – Rick Steves, Europe Through the Back Door

It’s not only about the star-studded history. The real draw is the unique mix of locals, celebrities, and travelers. Where else can you spot a champion F1 driver at breakfast, then see a family from Milan celebrating a birthday next to you at lunch?

The prices reflect its status, but so does the quality. You’re not just paying for food; you’re buying a front-row ticket to Monaco’s scene. Here’s a look at what makes it stand out:

• Founded in 1868—older than most countries' landmarks
• Iconic location: Right between the casino, opera, and Hotel de Paris
• Classic Parisian and Mediterranean dishes served all day
• Renovated in 2023 with updated outdoor seating and interiors
• Consistent spot for celebrities during events like the Monaco Grand Prix

So, if you’re after more than just food, the Cafe de Paris Monaco gives you a little slice of the city’s real life—no filter, just the action.

Where It's Located and How to Get There

Cafe de Paris Monaco sits smack dab in Casino Square, right next to Monte Carlo Casino and the fancy Hôtel de Paris. Its actual address is Place du Casino, 98000 Monaco. If you walk outside the casino, you can't miss it—the terrace spills out facing the square, and you'll spot the signature blue awnings right away.

Monaco’s tiny, so even first-timers won’t get lost. Still, picking the best way to get there calls for a quick rundown:

• Walking: If you’re staying anywhere in central Monaco, just stroll over. Most hotels in Monte Carlo are within a 10-minute walk.
• Train: The Monaco-Monte-Carlo train station gets loads of visitors daily. From the station, it’s about a 15-minute walk, mostly downhill. If you’re carrying bags, there are elevators and escalators to help you move between levels of the city.
• Bus: Local bus lines 1, 2, 5, and 6 all stop at Place du Casino. Tickets are cheap and can be bought from vending machines or on the bus itself. Look for the “Place du Casino” stop; it's right outside the door.
• Taxis & Ride Apps: Taxis in Monaco are spotless and reliable, but can be pricey during events or rush hour. Ride apps like Uber don’t operate in Monaco, but you can use the Monaco Taxi app instead.
• Car: There’s an underground parking lot (Parking Casino, entrance on Avenue des Spélugues). It’s secure and about two minutes on foot from the cafe. Parking costs about €3 per hour.

If you’re planning to use public transport, here’s a quick look at travel times and costs:

Pro tip: Casino Square gets jammed during big events (think Formula 1 Grand Prix in May). During those days, set aside extra time for detours and road closures—or skip driving and stick to walking or buses. Early mornings are usually much smoother if you want to beat the crowds.

Best Times to Visit (and When to Avoid)

If you want your Cafe de Paris Monaco experience to be memorable—and not just a photo in a sea of tourists—it honestly comes down to timing. Here’s the hard truth: this spot gets packed fast. Weekends, especially during the summer (June to August), are when things get busy both inside and out on the terrace. You might wait 30 minutes or more for a table if you land smack in the middle of lunch rush (noon to 2 pm).

The sweet spot? Hit it on a weekday, especially Tuesday through Thursday. Mornings between 8 am and 10 am are golden if you like a quiet vibe and want to sip your coffee in peace. Late afternoons, from about 3 pm to 5 pm, are also ideal—lunchtime crowds have dropped off, but the dinner rush hasn’t started yet.

Try to steer clear when major events like the Monaco Grand Prix or luxury product launches are happening in the city. During these dates, the whole square is slammed. If the Cafe de Paris Monaco is on your bucket list, check the events calendar: late May and September are especially wild.

• Arrive early for the best terrace tables with a view of the Casino.
• If you’re tight on time, call and reserve—though walk-ins are usually okay outside peak hours.
• Don’t stress too much about dress codes, but business casual scores you better service during busier hours.

The real trick? A bit of flexibility. Swing by off-peak, and you’ll get the iconic vibe everyone talks about—just without the hassle.

Must-Try Dishes and Drinks

It’s easy to get decision paralysis when you see that big menu at Cafe de Paris Monaco. You’re in Monte Carlo, so you want something you’ll remember. Here’s how to order like you’ve been before.

• If you see "Salade Niçoise" on the starters, stop thinking—just order it. This isn’t your soggy airport version. It comes loaded with ripe tomatoes, local olives, anchovies, and the freshest veggies around—basically a tribute to the nearby French Riviera.
• The “Sole Meunière” is a classic for a reason. The fish comes seared in brown butter, then topped with lemon and fresh herbs. If you’ve never tried it, this is the spot to taste why it’s such a big deal in French dining.
• Burgers might sound basic, but the "Burger Café de Paris" isn’t just another beef patty. Think juicy Charolais steak, gooey cheese, and the signature Café de Paris sauce that’s a local secret blend. It’s one of the most popular mains for both locals and visitors.
• Craving comfort food? Their "Croque Monsieur" comes with a crispy top and cheesy center that hits the spot after a long morning exploring. For something even richer, upgrade to a "Croque Madame"—same thing, but with a fried egg on top.

On to drinks. Coffee is a safe bet—order an "espresso" or go for a creamy "café crème" if you want something lighter. If you’re here early, fresh-squeezed orange juice is a hit, especially on sunny days.

Feeling celebratory? You’re in Monaco, so it’s totally fair to treat yourself to a glass of Champagne. They pour excellent local and French labels by the glass, not just the overpriced big-name bottles. If you want something refreshing but not alcoholic, order a citron pressé (which is like a do-it-yourself lemonade) or a Perrier for that real Monaco vibe.

• Tip: If you just want a drink and to soak up the scene, ask for the terrace menu—it’s lighter, more relaxed, and the prices can actually be a bit friendlier.

Save space for dessert. Their famous millefeuille gets a lot of love. You’ll see it served stacked tall, with creamy pastry layers that manage to be light and rich at the same time. If you’d rather finish lighter, a fruit tart with local strawberries is always on-point when they’re in season.

People-Watching Like a Local

If you ask anyone who knows Monaco, they’ll tell you the Cafe de Paris Monaco terrace is prime territory for people-watching. This stretch of seats faces Place du Casino—Monaco’s unofficial fashion runway. Forget TikTok, this is the real-life show.

Monaco draws a wild mix: business bigshots, sportscars owners, old-money families, influencers taking a million selfies, and the occasional movie star enjoying an espresso. On big racing weekends, you might catch famous F1 drivers passing by, or spot luxury cars lined up so close you can hear their engines purr.

Locals have a routine—they grab a table outside, order a coffee (it’s totally okay to linger with just a drink), and watch the square for hours. Don’t feel weird about staying a while; turnover isn’t rushed here. Just avoid the rookie mistake of grabbing the first table inside if you want the full effect. The best seats are:

• Directly on the terrace overlooking the casino square.
• At the outer edge for unobstructed views (ask the staff—they’ll usually try to help if you ask nicely).

If you want stats, the terrace holds about 250 guests, and on busy weekends, it fills up fast. Check out this quick comparison table for the best people-watching times:

If you’re after that classic Monaco vibe, mid-afternoon or early evening is your best shot. Want to blend in? Dress polished, but comfortable—no need for tuxes, but you won't see many sneakers. Most locals pair dress shirts with jeans or a nice summer dress.

One last tip: don’t bury your face in your phone. Take in the little things—dialects, outfits, how the staff keep orders straight without writing anything down. The show is right in front of you, and it’s totally different every day.

Tips for Scoring a Great Table and Saving Money

Getting that picture-perfect spot at Cafe de Paris Monaco isn’t about luck; it’s all about timing and quick moves. If you want a seat on the terrace (where the action really happens), skip the lunch rush. Mornings before 11 AM or late afternoons after 3 PM work best—regulars know this, and it’s usually when you can pick your table.

Reservations? The cafe doesn’t take them for outdoor spots, so you’ve got to show up and ask the host directly. Be nice, ask for a seat with a view of the casino, and if you don’t mind waiting 10-15 minutes, they’ll usually try to help out. For indoor dining, booking is possible (and smart) through their website or by phone. Large groups—especially on weekends or during events like the Grand Prix—need to be early birds or split into pairs for better luck.

Now, about saving money—yeah, prices here can sting. But there are ways to enjoy the Cafe de Paris Monaco vibe without breaking the bank:

• Order just a coffee or a soda and enjoy the free snacks—little olives, spiced nuts, or cheesy crackers usually come with any drink.
• Skip main dishes at peak times. They tend to be pricier at lunch and dinner. Try the "menu du jour" at breakfast or weekday lunch—it’s often way cheaper than à la carte.
• Split desserts or just order pastries. Their mille-feuille and tarte tropézienne can easily be shared between two people and you don’t lose out on the experience.
• Stick with house wines or draft beers. The cocktail list looks tempting, but prices for simple drinks are much friendlier on the wallet.

Here’s a quick look at what you might spend depending on what you order. These are average prices as of early 2025:

If you keep your order simple and prioritize the view, you’ll enjoy the best part of the cafe for a fraction of the cost people expect. Don’t forget, service is top-notch—tip is included, but a round-up of the bill for great service goes a long way.