‘Le Comptoir des Canettes, or simply Chez Georges, on the Left Bank is certainly one of my favourite spots in Paris. It’s a local meeting place and hub for regular customers of all generations and it hasn’t changed that much through the years.
‘I grew up not far from here – in the 6th arrondissement – and I’ve seen many changes in this area, especially as a result of the gradual process of gentrification that started almost 15 years ago. Paris might not be as fast as New York or London, but things can shift reversibly here too. However, this place hasn’t changed since I was a little girl.
‘There is a café upstairs and a cellar basement with intimate cave-like areas, usually crowded with regulars. The prices are very reasonable, so it’s popular with students. Everyone is welcome and the atmosphere is incredibly laid-back – which might be a rarity sometimes in Paris. The people are what makes this place feel so unique. You can meet older diners – from the most disparate creative backgrounds – sharing their experiences with younger kids and this is so wonderful. This place and its people preserve the memory of the neighbourhood.’
Le Comptoir des Canettes, 11 Rue des Canettes, 75006 Paris, France
