Chapter 6: The Economics of Café-Going

Understanding café economics from the customer perspective reveals how democratic luxury functions. The French have mastered extracting maximum value from minimal expenditure, making café life accessible across economic spectra.

Price structures encode social information. Counter service costs least—often half terrace prices for identical drinks. This allows quick, affordable café participation. Inside tables cost more than counters but less than terraces. The premium for outside seating reflects real estate values and pleasure principles.

The "café minimum" concept deserves explanation. One drink purchase grants indefinite occupancy rights. This social contract—honored by establishments and patrons—enables extended stays without repeated purchasing pressure. Students can study for hours, writers can work all afternoon, friends can chat endlessly, all for the price of single beverages.

Regular customer benefits extend beyond psychological. Many cafés maintain informal credit systems for trusted clients. "Je règle demain" (I'll pay tomorrow) works when relationships exist. Weekly settlements remain common. This trust economy cements café-customer bonds beyond mere commercial transactions.

Budget strategies enable frequent café participation. Morning counter coffee costs less than afternoon table service. House wine beats labeled bottles. Plat du jour offers restaurant quality at café prices. Happy hour discounts reward temporal flexibility. The savvy customer navigates these options, maintaining café habits within limited budgets.

The comparison with home consumption reveals café value. A 1.50€ espresso seems expensive versus home-brewed coffee. Yet factor in space rental, social opportunity, service provision, and atmosphere access—suddenly café pricing seems reasonable. The French understand they're purchasing experience, not just beverages.