I must preface this post by noting that, generally speaking, I don’t frequent coworking spaces of any kind.
In Paris, most regular cafés allow you to sit with your computer – and access to WiFi – for as long as you like. Usually, you’re not expected to “pay rent” by buying new coffees – or even lunch – and as a result, you can spend quite a bit of time working in a “coworking” space without actually having to pay the piper.
But in some circumstances, this isn’t the case. On weekends, for example, it can be tougher to find a place that’s empty enough where sitting there to work all day is culturally acceptable. Also, if you need complete and total silence to work, a lively café might be exactly what you don’t want.
Enter Craft.
Craft is a coffee shop just off the trendy Canal Saint-Martin. The shop is divided in two distinct areas: the front, overlooking the rue des Vinaigriers, is just for coffee or food – no laptops allowed. It’s a great place to meet up with friends and enjoy great coffee or fresh juices.
The back of the shop, however, is dedicated to work. One large table and a few small ones offer more than enough outlets (no need to fight over a paltry one or two, like in many coffeeshops that aren’t also coworking spaces) and lots of space to spread out and work.
The payment system is straightforward: 4 euros per hour. You can, however, use the cash you’re spending to purchase coffee, juice, or snacks, and if you haven’t managed to spend it all, you can take something to go.
I don’t spend tons of time at Craft; I’m usually better off in another café. Exhibit A: on my last visit, I stayed for five hours and didn’t come close to spending 20 euro on drinks and food. But it’s an awesome option for whom the café is not ideal for work, and the quality of the food and drink (including coffee from Café Lomi) served here makes it worth a trip.
Craft -Â 24 Rue des Vinaigriers, 75010