The rue de Buci in Paris’ 6th arrondissement is a must-visit street during your trip to the capital. Located in the chic area between Odéon and Saint-Germain-des-Prés, it’s an extremely popular street where locals and tourists come to grab drinks and eat at some great restaurants.
I know the street extremely well as I lived around the corner for 3 years! In this guide I’ll share with you my tips on the best spots to discover on the street and near by.
A Bustling, Historical Street in the Capital’s 6th Arrondissement
The popular street dates back to the very early ages of Paris’ history. In 1352 the street was first documented and was known as the path that led to the Abbey of Saint Germain de Prés. The name comes from the honouring of Simon de Buci who was the first ever president of the Parliament of Paris in 1341. Several famous French figures have lived on the rue de Buci over the years, including Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir.
Fast forward to today, the street is lined with many cafés, bars, restaurants, shops and hotels. Near by, on rue de Seine you’ll find a mass of art galleries with furniture, African masks, contemporary art and artefacts on sale. Go down rue Mazarine, you’ll find the Institute of France at the end and, during spring time, a small park with cherry blossom.
Restaurants on Rue de Buci
If you’re looking to eat out in the area then you’re in luck. There are some good restaurants on rue de Buci but be warned, they’re not cheap! I personally do like Atlas which you’ll easily spot with its large red sun awning over the huge terrace. It’s a great spot to grab a steak tartare, oysters and of course some wine!
Just off the street, on rue de Seine, you’ll find Freddy’s – a small restaurant offering incredible French-Japanese tapas. It’s very popular with locals and tourists a like and for good reason. There’s a central kitchen with a Japanese charcoal BBQ and the chefs grill fish, chicken, pork and beef over the grill to perfection. It was my go to restaurant in the area when I lived there and it’s still incredible! They don’t take reservations so make sure you go early to avoid disappointment.
Just opposite Freddy’s is Kaïto, a Japanese hand-roll bar opened in 2023 by sushi master, Takuya Watanabe. They offer incredible sushi rolls made to order with quality ingredients.
If you’re looking for a brunch spot then check out Maison Sauvage on rue de Buci. Running low on time and want a sandwich? Pastavino and Cosi (each about a 10 second walk from each other) serve great sandwiches.
Looking for more restaurant recommendations? Check out our guide to the best restaurants in the 6th arrondissement.
Bars & Cafés
Rue de Buci is a fantastic spot for a drink. There’s not too much better than sipping on a glass of wine and watching the world go by – especially on a beautiful Parisian street.
My first recommendation would be Bar de Marché on the corner of rue de Seine. It’s a classic where-the-locals go kind of bar where you’ll feel like a real Parisian. It’s definitely not a cheap bar but you’re paying for the location!
Le Chai is another great French café just further up – it’s beautifully decorated and have a lovely terrace for drinking outside during the warm months.
Café Buci is a classified as an historical monument as it’s a very old Parisian café. Another great bar to check out, you’ll have views over the crossroads leading up to the Odéon metro station.
Stores & Bakeries
If you’re wanting some pastries or viennoiseries, then check out one of my favourite bakeries in Paris, Maison Thevenin. It was my local boulangerie in the area and they one of the (in my opinion) best baguettes in Paris.
Buy one of their baguettes and you’ll definitely want some French charcuterie with it! Check out Cul de Cochon further up the street for some incredible ham and saucisson. Their smoked duck rillettes is something I still miss now I live on the other side of the city!
FAQ: Rue de Buci
Where Is It Located?
Rue de Buci is located in the 6th arrondissement, in the city’s left bank between Saint-Germain-des-Prés and the Notre Dame cathedral.
How Do You Get There by Metro?
You can get to Rue de Buci by metro on line 4 (getting off at the Odéon station) or on Line 7 (Pont Neuf) where you’ll need to walk for about 10 minutes after you get out of the station.
I lived on Rue de Buci in 2003. So great to catch up and see that some of the same bars are still there. Cheers! -Ann