A Favorite Tourist - Yet not Touristy Cafe!
Le Depart, despite its touristy location at the start of Boulevard Saint Michel and the Seine and just 2 blocks from Notr Dame, this long-time cafe offers something for everyone and is open 24 hours a day.
Of course, you have tourists, lots of them and students from the nearby Sorbonne but it is also frequented by many local Parisians. It has the usual terrace seating with a unique awning that can be opened or closed depending on the weather. Inside there is a dining room with comfy booths lining the walls, making a perfect spot to catch up on your reading, or a quiet coffee for two.
Surprisingly, the food is not too bad- drinks are on the high side, but meals are reasonally price, 10.80 Euros will get you a Poulet Fermier Roti (chicken) with choice of potato, veggie or salad. Ice cream desserts and crepes are very popular.
It has a good view of the Fountain Saint Michel, an excellent choice for people-watching! The Metro Saint Michel is literally right outside the entrance.
The staff are generally very nice, with the occasional waiter who is having a bad day and is not particularly pleased to interpret your high school French but this is the rare exception. The management appears friendly and easy-going.
All in all, Le Depart makes for a pleasant and entertaining place to pass the time for for an hour...or 2.
