Reply from Paris Digest, France
11:16 May 24, 2011
This is true. One of the pleasures of Paris is standing at the bar counter (or sitting on a high stool) and having a drink. It is also cheaper. A coffee may cost 1 to 1.50 euros at the bar, 2 to 4 euros at a table. The price difference is less obvious for complete meals. This price difference reflects the difference of service and space you occupy. But, it is also a tradition to have a drink at the bar and these prices make it affordable to everyone. Many have « un café », « un demi » (a beer) or a « petit blanc » (glass of white wine). In all cases, service is included in the price, but it’ is commun practice to leave a tip.