What you’ll like about Le Comptoir General (80 Quai de Jemmapes, 75010 Paris) is that it’s one of those places you won’t find if you don’t know about it. There is no signage out front and it’s not trying to be hip or trendy. And the best part is when you get in you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the ambiance.
On any given day or night you can expect to mingle in this multiusage space with the most eclectic mic that Paris has to offer: diverse ages and cultural backgrounds make up the authenticity of this out of place space.
On the evening I took my out of town friends there was no waiting line to get in (best to go before 8pm I’ve heard).
We entered the hidden space and were greeted by a dimly lit hallway decorated with massive elaborate chandeliers and portraits of old African presidents and French presidents.
For the first time I realized that there was the signage “Ghetto Museum” explaining the spaces objective of crafting a convivial space with touches of the kitch and exotic for all people to gather and discover the rich Franco-African culture by way of music, food and cultural events.
The meals change each day and are a variation of French, Asian and African cuisine. Alcoholic drinks sold at the bar are African beer and juices or organic sodas and colas.
Great place to meet with friends in Paris in groups, couples with young kids will find that they have storytelling sessions, toys and music to keep the kiddies happy. This is also the type of place you can take your parents. On Sundays in the afternoon many families come to have a break from strolling along the canal.
Small garden attached to the side.
Thrift shop + Bookshop upstairs.
Toys for kids to play with lying around.
A donation is requested on entrance.
Music is often in the background – that night it was a mix of French, African and Funk.
If you fancy a spot to hang with no pretense – yet surprising weird ( think he set of Sanford and Son) notice and comfortable at the same time. Check out Comptoir General along the Quai de Jemmaps.
Near by: Chez Prune, Cafe Sesame, Ten Belles
Kws: Easy going, Canal St. Martin, Bar, Kid Friendly, Family, Vintage, Bookshop, Funky, Hidden Paris, Best of Paris
Open Hours: Everyday from 11am to 1am
Metro:Jacques Bonsergent (Line 5)
Kid friendly
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