Twining Tea Room

Twining Tea Room is a cozy café and tea house nestled within the Smith and Son Bookstore on Rue de Rivoli, creating a unique blend of literary charm and café culture right in the heart of Paris. This spot naturally draws in book lovers and locals looking for a quiet, relaxed corner away from the city's usual bustle.

Visitors tend to come here for a leisurely afternoon tea experience or a casual coffee break amid shelves packed with books. The atmosphere is calm yet lively, with three distinct seating areas offering slightly different vibes—from intimate nooks perfect for diving into a good read, to areas better suited for catching up with friends. The space is compact but thoughtfully arranged, which sometimes leads to a short wait, especially on weekends or late afternoons.

The menu plays to the classic tea room, featuring highlights like the Wilde High Tea, scones served with clotted cream, and comforting treats such as carrot cake and chocolat viennois. These sweet options complement a broad tea selection, alongside various coffees and both hot and cold drinks. Whether stopping by for a quick bite, dessert, or a longer sit-down break, the offerings suit a range of tastes and times of day.

Service here is attentive but understandably stretched during busy periods, usually managed by a small, steady staff team, which adds to the intimate, almost homey feel. The café’s location on the first floor inside a bookstore means it benefits from natural light and a quiet charm that shifts subtly with the changing daylight, making mid-afternoon an especially pleasant time to visit.

Twining Tea Room is well-suited for locals and visitors who appreciate a café environment that encourages slowing down—whether with a book, a friend, or just a calming cup of tea. It’s an inviting pause amid the cultural rhythm of the 1st arrondissement, bridging the worlds of Parisian café life and literary exploration.