This 400-year-old bar, hidden just a stone’s throw from the Palais Royal, is the oldest in Paris – and you’ve probably walked past it without knowing it!

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As we all know, Paris is a historic city that hides many treasures. Among them is the Tour d’Argent, the oldest restaurant in Paris and the one with one of the best views in the city. Among the oldest addresses in Paris, there’s one that caught our eye: l’Entracte. It’s the oldest bar in Paris, and you’ll see that it’s had a thousand and one lives!

L’Entracte, the oldest bar in Paris

For almost 400 years, this bar has enlivened the rue Montpensier with its merry (and sometimes boozy) evenings. Formerly known as La Pissote, it was a meeting place for coachmen who liked to have a drink to unwind from their day, and “take a piss” (hence the old name). Ideally located just a stone’s throw from the Palais Royal, it was the perfect place to relax between customers, have a good time and enjoy yourself!

Since 1614, the bar has been a favorite meeting place not only for actors from the Palais Royal theater, which is just a stone’s throw from the bar, but also for their spectators. Famous actors such as Jean Carmet and Jacques Villeret are among the regulars here after their performances.
We love going here to have a drink, share a platter of charcuterie or cheese, and enjoy the charming terrace in all seasons. And don’t be shy: the bar is rather small, but not lacking in charm or conviviality.