RESTAURANT IN REVIEW: EXTRACTION COFFEE

DO WE LIKE THE LOCATION?

Having lived in the 11th arrondissement I am forever biased towards this area and have nothing but glowing things to say about it. Extraction Coffee is neatly tucked off of the roaring Boulevard Beaumarchais, a stone’s throw away from Place des Vosges and Bastille, a perfect location if you want to explore more of Paris. Housed in a bright storefront that was formerly known as Mr. S Motorcycles, though it still retains this name on the façade of the establishment, the cafe sits on a quiet street and maximizes the cozy potential of the large space while remaining inviting, and unpretentious.

THE CROWD - YAY OR NAY?

Unlike other coffee shops, Extraction Coffee seems to attract a diverse population of customers, from young families, to students, to older patrons and more. Several languages can also be heard at any given time at the cafe which bolsters the magnanimous appeal of the place.

WHAT TO DRINK?

I typically don’t like milk in my coffee but their cappuccinos are the perfect amalgam of sweet and sapid without being too rich or conversely too acrid. They also offer a large variety of lattes, teas, and other home made beverages suitable for all seasons

WHAT TO EAT?

My favorite dish is their eponymous “Toast Extraction,” a densely flavourful slice of sourdough topped with beet hummus, roasted asparagus, topped with crumbled feta, and served with a side of baby greens and a poached egg. Most recently I indulged in their “pancakes américains” which more than satiated my Christmas eve homesickness, and, to my surprise, the pancakes were far more similar to their savory American counterparts than the usual, quite literally, fluffy and saccharine pan “cakes” that are often proffered by French brunch-oriented establishments.

DESSERT?

Whether you’re ordering a follow up to your brunch, lunch, or an accompaniment to an afternoon goûter, Extraction has a comely selection of pastries and cakes. I mostly gravitate towards the succulent Cake Myrtille, which is coated in a white lemon frosting and is sensationally satisfying without being overly rich while accentuated by bursts of sweetness from the blueberries.

WHAT’S THE OCCASION?

If, like me, you enjoy a good coffee any time of day, this place is a wonderful stop but the best time to visit is for brunch! Their brunch special features a plethora of flavorful options from pancakes to pain perdu to their specialty toast, tacos, or buns, there is something for everyone!

THE VERDICT?

This cafe easily deserves a 9/10 for its reasonable prices, innovative yet classic comfort food, and relaxed ambience.

ADDRESS:

29 Rue Amelot
11th Arrondissement