Café de Flore: Where Young Zhou Enlai Drank Coffee in 1920s Paris

In the 1920s, a young Chinese student named Zhou Enlai arrived in Paris, not just to study but to observe, write, and build connections in a city teeming with artists, thinkers, and revolutionaries. Among his haunts was one of Paris’s oldest and most storied coffeehouses, where ideas flowed as freely as the espresso. But which café was it, and what made it so important—not just for art, but for history?

Zhou Enlai lived near Rue Goethe in Paris’s 13th arrondissement for over two years in the 1920s. He often visited the historic Café de Flore, which had been open since 1865 and was a hub for intellectuals like Picasso, Sartre, and Trotsky. The café’s waiter, Pascal, became a friend and even loaned money to the cash-strapped student, forging a lasting bond.

A Landmark Paris Café Since 1865

Café de Flore is one of Paris’s three most famous historical cafés, having opened its doors in 1865. For over a century, it has drawn writers, artists, and political figures. Its long list of notable patrons includes Pablo Picasso, Jean-Paul Sartre, André Breton, and even Leon Trotsky. The café became known as a gathering spot for creative minds and radicals alike, making it a natural destination for a politically minded student like Zhou.

Zhou Enlai’s Time at Café de Flore

During his two-year stay in Paris, Zhou frequented Café de Flore near his residence. He used the café as both a workspace and a place to meet people. The café's waiter, Pascal, was known for his warmth toward struggling students. He took a liking to the young Chinese man and often lent him money during tough times. Zhou, in turn, never forgot this kindness. Even after becoming China’s premier, he sent gifts—including Chinese cigarettes and tea—to Pascal, who shared them with colleagues. This friendship became part of the café’s lore, with Zhou’s name still noted on its official cultural heritage plaque.

Café de Flore Today: A Protected Historical Site

Café de Flore is now recognized as a protected cultural site in Paris. Its official heritage plaque commemorates numerous notable individuals—and includes the name of Zhou Enlai. Though Pascal has since passed away, the stories of his bond with the future Chinese premier continue to circulate among visitors and regulars. The café remains a living piece of both Parisian and international history.

Beyond Café de Flore, Zhou also spent time in other Paris cafés, including those near the Gare de l’Est railway station, further immersing himself in the city’s intellectual life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Café de Flore and why is it famous?

Café de Flore is a historic Parisian café that has been open since 1865. It is renowned for attracting artists, writers, and intellectuals such as Picasso, Sartre, and Trotsky, making it a central hub of 20th-century Parisian cultural life.

Did Zhou Enlai really visit Café de Flore?

Yes. In the 1920s, a young Zhou Enlai lived in Paris’s 13th arrondissement and frequently visited Café de Flore while studying and writing. He used the café to socialize and gather information about French society.

Who was Pascal, and what was his connection to Zhou Enlai?

Pascal was a waiter at Café de Flore who showed kindness to struggling students, including Zhou Enlai. He often lent money to the young Chinese man, and Zhou later sent him Chinese tea and cigarettes from China after rising to prominence.

Is there any official recognition of Zhou Enlai at Café de Flore?

Yes. Café de Flore is a protected historical site in Paris, and its official cultural heritage plaque includes the name of Zhou Enlai, preserving the memory of his connection to the café.

Are there other Paris cafés connected to Zhou Enlai?

Yes. The article also mentions that Zhou visited cafés near the Gare de l’Est railway station in Paris, though Café de Flore was his primary haunt during that period.

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