Hemingway's Paris: Iconic Pubs and Bars from the Lost Generation

The Lost Pubs of Hemingway's Paris: A Literary Crawl Through History

Paris is magical, right? Strolling along the Seine, sipping espresso at corner cafés, and catching the vibe of centuries of artists who’ve walked these streets before us—it’s surreal. But as a writer (and total book nerd), the real magic hits when you step into the Paris of Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and the entire Lost Generation.

This isn’t just about ticking off tourist spots. It’s a chance to soak in the energy of a time when Paris was the beating heart of creativity. I’m talking about the pubs and cafés where Hemingway drank (a lot), wrote, and probably argued about something intellectual. From the iconic La Closerie des Lilas to lesser-known gems, this is a literary pub crawl through time.

Get ready for a mix of history, vibes, and a little bit of day drinking as we trace Hemingway’s steps across Paris. Grab a notebook—you might just feel inspired to write your own novel by the end of it.

1. La Closerie des Lilas: Hemingway's Writing Haven

📍 171 Boulevard du Montparnasse, 75006 Paris, France

La Closerie des Lilas is more than just a café; it’s a portal to Paris in the 1920s. Hemingway adored this spot, and it’s not hard to see why. Nestled in Montparnasse, this historic brasserie exudes old-world charm, with its plush red banquettes, dimly lit ambiance, and piano music drifting softly in the background. It’s where Hemingway often wrote, drank, and met other literary icons like F. Scott Fitzgerald and Gertrude Stein. Imagine the creative energy that once buzzed through these walls.

Today, the spirit of the Lost Generation lingers. Order the Hemingway Daiquiri (a nod to his love of cocktails) or a classic absinthe if you’re feeling adventurous. Sit outside under the shade of chestnut trees, or cozy up inside, pen and notebook in hand, and channel your inner writer.

The menu is as refined as the history, but even a simple espresso can transport you back in time. Whether you’re here for the literary vibes or just a great Parisian meal, La Closerie des Lilas is a must-visit for anyone who’s ever dreamed of walking in Hemingway’s footsteps.

2. Les Deux Magots: Hemingway and Sartre's Hangout

📍 6 Place Saint-Germain des Prés, 75006 Paris, France

Les Deux Magots is more than just a café—it’s an icon of Parisian culture and intellectual history. In its heyday, this legendary spot was a favorite of writers, artists, and philosophers, including Hemingway, Jean-Paul Sartre, and Simone de Beauvoir. Picture Hemingway sitting on the terrace, jotting down notes while sipping a café crème or something stronger.

The café’s interior is straight out of a vintage postcard, with wooden tables, mirrored walls, and waiters dressed in crisp uniforms. Grab a seat inside for an intimate vibe or outside for prime people-watching in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés.

Order the rich, velvety hot chocolate—it’s world-famous and feels indulgent in the best way. Or, if you’re sticking to Hemingway’s preferences, a glass of Sancerre will do the trick. Whether you’re here to soak in the literary history or to enjoy a quiet moment with a book, Les Deux Magots is an unforgettable experience that blends Paris’s past and present seamlessly.

3. Harry's New York Bar: Where Legends Were Made

📍 5 Rue Daunou, 75002 Paris, France

Harry’s New York Bar might just be the most storied bar in Paris. Known as the birthplace of the Bloody Mary, this spot has been a favorite of expats, writers, and creatives since 1911. Hemingway himself dubbed it “the best damn bar in the world,” and it’s not hard to see why.

The vibe here is classic and cozy, with its wood-paneled walls, leather stools, and a collection of flags from universities around the world. The piano bar upstairs adds a jazzy touch, making it a perfect mix of elegance and nostalgia. Order their signature Bloody Mary (it’s a must) or go for a timeless martini—Hemingway’s drink of choice.

As you sip, imagine Hemingway swapping stories with F. Scott Fitzgerald or Coco Chanel making an appearance. The sense of history is palpable, but it’s not stuffy—Harry’s still feels alive, buzzing with conversation and laughter. It’s a perfect stop for a drink and a dose of Parisian literary magic.

4. Café de Flore: The Intellectual Powerhouse

📍 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris, France

Café de Flore isn’t just a café—it’s an icon. This spot, nestled in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, was a hotbed of intellectual and artistic energy during Hemingway’s time. Writers, philosophers, and creatives like Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, and Picasso made this their stomping ground, and it’s easy to see why.

The ambiance feels untouched by time, with its classic Art Deco interiors, red banquettes, and mirrored walls. Hemingway was known to drop in for a drink or two while debating literature and life. While today it might lean a little touristy, the vibe is still undeniably electric.

Order a café crème and sit outside on the terrace—it’s perfect for people-watching and soaking up Parisian charm. Or go full Hemingway and pair a glass of red wine with a plate of charcuterie. Whether you’re channeling your inner philosopher or just catching the vibe, Café de Flore remains one of the most inspiring places in Paris.

5. La Coupole: Art Deco Meets Hemingway

📍 102 Boulevard du Montparnasse, 75014 Paris, France

La Coupole is where Hemingway and his contemporaries rubbed shoulders with the bohemian crowd of Montparnasse. Known for its stunning Art Deco interior and lively atmosphere, this brasserie was a hub for artists and writers during the 1920s. With its soaring ceilings, mosaic floors, and vibrant murals, the space feels like stepping back into a glamorous past.

Hemingway wasn’t just a visitor—he was a regular, often dining here with his wife or meeting with fellow creatives. Today, the brasserie retains its charm, offering a menu that pays homage to its history. Start with oysters or escargot for an authentic experience, or go all-in with their steak tartare.

La Coupole isn’t just a meal; it’s a slice of Parisian history. Whether you’re indulging in a full dinner or simply sipping a cocktail at the bar, it’s a place where you can feel the energy of the Lost Generation all around you.

6. Brasserie Lipp: Classic Parisian Brasserie

📍 151 Boulevard Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris, France

If there’s one place that screams classic Paris, it’s Brasserie Lipp. This historic brasserie was a favorite of Hemingway and his literary peers, offering them a cozy spot to enjoy a meal and a drink while discussing life, art, and everything in between. Established in 1880, the brasserie has been a constant in Paris’s literary and cultural scene for over a century.

The interiors are timeless: tiled floors, leather banquettes, and an atmosphere that feels equal parts intimate and bustling. Hemingway often came here for its hearty Alsatian fare, with dishes like choucroute garnie and coq au vin taking center stage.

For a true Parisian experience, start with a kir or a glass of champagne before diving into the menu. The service is famously old-school, adding to the charm of the place. Sitting in Brasserie Lipp, it’s easy to imagine Hemingway at the next table, jotting down notes or exchanging ideas with Fitzgerald. It’s a must-visit for anyone tracing the footsteps of the Lost Generation.

A Moveable Feast IRL

Doing a Hemingway pub crawl through Paris felt like a love letter to the city and its history. Each stop was a portal to a time when writers turned cafés into classrooms and pubs into creative labs. It’s not just about the drinks or the ambiance—it’s about connecting with a piece of literary magic that still lingers in the air.

If you’re a fan of books, history, or just Paris in general, this crawl is a must. So, here’s to Hemingway, Paris, and all the dreamers out there keeping the Lost Generation alive. Santé!

Stay tuned for more wanderlust-worthy adventures and tips from Woke Waves Magazine.

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