Substance Café

The coffee tasting was absolutely professional and truly amazing! We have a lot of experience and often visit different countries, but this one was especially interesting. The beans and roasting were delicious, and it was clear there is so much deep knowledge and understanding of the coffee industry here. It was a very engaging and insightful experience ❤️

You can taste truly exceptional coffee here! It’s run on a reservation basis, and even though I arrived a bit earlier than my time, Joachim welcomed me so warmly. Although I don’t have much knowledge about coffee beans or roasting, I love drinking good coffee, so I wanted to try this tasting experience. He asked for my feedback on the flavors and aromas I like or dislike and recommended coffees accordingly. The flat white was incredibly smooth, and just as he described, it had a cheesecake-like texture with a hint of citrus. I really enjoyed spending some time in this space, where I could get a glimpse of his passion for coffee. Many of the customers seemed to be true coffee enthusiasts, but even if you don’t know much about coffee, as long as you love it, this is a place you should definitely visit!

Had a tasting here this evening with my partner. It was a wonderful experience! Joachim was very passionate about coffee, its origins, and production and how best to satisfy our taste while respecting the nature and quality of the coffee

Incredible experience with Joachim. We stayed for nearly 3 hours and learned so much. Coffee was incredible and the barista is incredibly knowledgeable and warm/friendly. Will definitely be back. Be warned, reservations are required! No walk ins at all.

I’ve visited hundreds of cafes across the world but this experience undoubtedly takes the crown. From the moment you walk in to Substance, you feel like as if you are being welcomed into Joachim’s home as long time friend. The cafe is just a one man operation, just Joachim taking the orders and brewing the coffee. However, Joachim still gives you his unwavering attention and hospitality. While making coffee, he is telling you the story behind each bean, making jokes and friendly banter with guests, and figuring out what you like or don’t like so that he can make you a drink he hopes you will love. Although he is scientific and laser focused on his craft, it is a friendly, approachable space and I feel I was able to learn a lot about the coffee industry in a casual way. Substance’s beans are sourced and roasted by Joachim himself. There is a huge selection on the menu, including over a dozen Panama Geishas. Drinks are made on v60 as well as on espresso. If you are looking for dark roast, very traditional style coffee, or co-fermented flavors, you are better off looking elsewhere. The beans are very high quality, so drinks start at around 7 Euros and can go up to 20, depending on how rare of a bean you want to try. I personally think the drinks are fairly priced given the quality of the farms and Joachim’s roasting. Overall, I’d place Substance as the best cafe in the world. If you’re visiting Paris and you want to try championship level brews and chat coffee, you must see Joachim. Just make sure you make a reservation a week ahead of time as the cafe is intimate and only has a a few seatings at a time.

It was on my Wish list of coffee shop to visit since a while and after couple of years I managed to have this experience last year. Apologies for the delay. The experience is formal not with attitude. Joaquim is explaining perfectly his process and research. You can drink as many coffe you want but maybe you want to have a coffee every half an hour with the same amount of water to don’t have headache or been over caffeinated. I had an espresso that was just taste blueberry 🫐round,full body I believe it was a washed from Ethiopia on regular menu layered,complex you almost could bite fruits at this stage. Then I had a geisha from Specials Ethiopia Village again I believe it was Experimental one (joaquim correct me if it wasn’t) One of the best geisha I had, Delicate to the palate,very floral. Smelling Roses 🌹 Thank you for this experience and I will definitely come back.

Substance Café isn’t just a café—it’s a journey into the depth and nuance of specialty coffee, and Joachim is the guide who makes it unforgettable. Whether you’re newly curious or already deep in the world of espresso, pour-overs and processing methods, this space invites you in without pretense. The selection is precise, thoughtful, and uncompromising. Each coffee earns its place with transparency, quality, and a story that justifies its spot. Whether you lean bright and juicy or rich and grounded, there’s always something on the menu that hits. What makes Substance Café stand out is its balance: deep expertise without ego, education without intimidation. Joachim’s passion is clear, but it never overshadows the experience, it enhances it. Make a reservation. Take the journey. This is coffee, elevated—but always human.

Magnificent coffee experience for all. Best coffee I had in my life. Will definitely be back whenever I visit Paris.

When you think you are a coffee aficionado, there is Joachin who is from another dimension. This is a place to enjoy and learn about coffee, all your questions will be answered. Expect to enjoy this coffee experience for 30 minutes or 3 hours--it's up to you.

This was an amazing, personalized coffee experience. It's worth the effort to find this place. The owner is very passionate about coffee and welcoming to everyone who walks through his doors.

Amazing experience. Michelin 3 star equivalent of coffee. Joachim is a master, virtuoso. Great place to enjoy competition level coffee, coffee conversation around the bar with fellow coffee geeks.

This is one of the most specialty coffee places, even among specialty places. It's totally coffee focused. No food. Just a super knowledgeable barista, "expensive" coffee, and lots of interesting origins. For the serious coffee drinker, this is one of your must stops in town.

The coffee bean is king here! Joe's immaculate coffee shop has been my morning ritual while visiting Paris with the family for a week. He is passionate about creating a true French coffee experience to all who come. If you love your coffee this is the place to be! I would not recommend Substance for a quick cafe americain to go however. It is to stay and savor the experience. Perfect for an expression or a nice pour over- Merci Joe!

Coffee temple non the less. Coffee are just amazing!! And the way barista and the owner serve it makes you feel that exceptional experience of tasting something unique

Amazing coffee, I've never had anything like it honestly. The barista/owner is knowledgeable, helpful and friendly. Very kind to speak English with us and even recommend a few good spots in Paris!

Incredible coffee with an incredibly friendly, passionate barista! The hype is well earned