Rue de Buci: Walking Through Real Parisian Romance

The moment you step onto the street and feel that lively atmosphere, you know you're in the right place. Even within Paris, it feels like the real Paris. Walk slowly and listen as you go.

Our guide asked a young employee at a restaurant on this street where people like to go. First is Le Bar du Marché, near the start of the street, loved by locals and tourists alike and a place to experience true Parisian life. Second is Maison Sauvage, near the far end, reportedly a huge hit on social media and famous for its flower-covered facade and delicious brunch.

The street was first recorded in 1352 as the road leading to the Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and it is named after Simon de Buci, the first president of the Parlement of Paris. It later flourished as a center of commerce and social life alongside Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Several famous French figures, including Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir, are said to have lived here over the years. As writers, artists and philosophers gathered, café and salon culture developed, and Rue de Buci became one of its centers. Today it is lined with restaurants, wine bars and cafés and is loved by food lovers. Our guide, who has lived in Paris for many years, says that if asked to name the street with the most authentic Parisian romance, this is the one.

To reach the next stop, go past Maison Sauvage to the five-way intersection, cross the crosswalk once in the direction you were heading, and turn right. The old restaurant Le Procope is partway down that street, about a minute's walk away.