A Parisian institution ever since it was inaugurated by Empress Eugenie in 1862, this is the home of what is quite possibly the most expensive cup of coffee in the city (6€). Everyone from Emile Zola to Yves Montand has done time at this Second Empire marvel, whose gold leaf and curlicues have been meticulously renovated. Its outdoor terrace offers a magnificent view of the Palais Garnier—the perfect place for a drink before a night at the Opéra. It won’t be cheap, but it will be memorable.