Paris's 10 best cinema bars

If Paris is something of a mecca for watching films, it also remains one of the great cities in which to debate them. Here, the moviegoing experience doesn’t end with the closing credits but in the neighbouring bar, several hours and as many bottles of wine later. Cinemas often rise to the occasion by providing an in-house bar or café; what’s more, thanks to the city’s wealth of eccentric independent venues, many of these retain a unique character. They run the gamut from kitsch film themes to sleek designer interiors, beer-inspired snacks to elaborate salads, rickety bar stools to downy sofas. Yet they all share one thing: a clientele of passionate film buffs who you can expect to be debating auteur theory or the relative merits of Woody Allen at all times of day and/or night. And who knows? You may even bump into Catherine Deneuve (see Le Salon du Panthéon).

Around half of Paris's independent picture houses, and a fair few chain branches, offer some kind of space in which to grab a bite or a drink. We've done the rounds, and sorted out the beauties from the beasts. Below, we present our 10 favourites, as well as a map to help you get your bearings. Think we’ve missed out on some good ones? Let us know in the comments box at the bottom of the page.