Parisian Waiters Race Through the City to Serve Coffee and Croissants
Over 200 waiters participate in a thrilling race, navigating the bustling streets of Paris with trays full of coffee and pastries in a timed challenge.
The waiters in ****Parisian cafes, often criticized for being unfriendly and impatient, are actually skilled professionals known as "garçons de café". They have impressive abilities such as memorizing orders for eight people without writing them down, carrying multiple dishes and drinks at once, and handling busy lunch rushes effortlessly while still finding time for a quick cigarette break.
On Sunday, Paris hosted the Course des Cafés, a revived annual event where waiters showcase their professional skills by racing a two-kilometer route while balancing a tray with a cup of coffee, a glass of water, and a croissant.
Two hundred waiters from the city's top cafes, dressed in classic black pants or skirt, apron, and white top, participated in the event, weaving through the streets and alleys of central Paris to entertain the crowds.
To win the race, participants had to be both fast and cautious. Even a small adjustment to their tray could affect their overall score. They were not allowed to spill anything. The Paris city government even made a lighthearted comment about not being able to eat during the race!
Because of these strict rules, the event was more like a brisk walk than a full-on sprint.
Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo mentioned to journalists that the tray was quite heavy as she prepared for the race.
A female contestant advised on France Bleu radio to walk quickly, but not too quickly.
Once the competition began, mishaps were bound to happen. Water splashed, cups tumbled down. Suddenly, a participant cried out, "I can't feel my fingers!"
The crowd of Parisians, braving the chilly early spring weather to witness the revival of this iconic French tradition after a 12-year hiatus, reacted with gasps, cheers, and laughter.
Waiters start the Course des Cafes race on March 24, 2024.
Waiters start the Course des Cafes race on March 24, 2024.
Dimitar Dilkoff/AFP/Getty Images
‘Excellence of French service’
The Paris city government stated earlier this year that the race has been brought back to promote sport and showcase "the excellence of French service" in preparation for the 2024 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Several city officials, such as the mayor of central Paris Ariel Weil, as well as the two deputy mayors of Paris responsible for Olympic affairs and business, Pierre Rabadan and Nicolas Bonnet Oulaldj, also took part in the race.
The "Course des Garçons de Café" or cafe waiters race was introduced in 1914 by French historian Laurent Bihl to showcase the cafes and restaurants of Paris.
Marriage proposals in Paris have been skyrocketing, with one man even wanting his face projected on the Eiffel Tower. The trend has spread beyond Paris to other cities in France like Nice, Belfort, and Calais.
Many towns in the UK have also embraced this race, putting their own twist on it by swapping out coffee and croissants for a pint of beer. The event has even made its way to cities like Hong Kong and Yokohama.
In Paris, participants in the Course des Cafés race, now called simply the Course, raced through the streets and some finished in under 14 minutes.
In the end, Pauline Van Wymeersch from the Café le Petit Pont and Samy Lamrous from La Contrescarpe were crowned the fastest woman and man. They both won tickets to the Olympic opening ceremony this summer. Perhaps, they also gained some newfound respect from customers who complain about the time it takes to order a coffee, croissant, and a glass of water.
Editor's P/S:
The revival of the Course des Cafés is a delightful celebration of the artistry and dedication of Parisian waiters, known as "garçons de café." The race showcases the extraordinary skills required to navigate busy cafes with grace and efficiency, from memorizing complex orders to balancing multiple trays. The event also highlights the camaraderie and sense of pride among these professionals.
Beyond its entertainment value, the race serves a broader purpose. As Paris prepares to host the 2024 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games, the Course des Cafés promotes the "excellence of French service." It underscores the importance of hospitality and the dedication to providing a memorable dining experience for visitors and locals alike. The race not only celebrates the garçons de café but also serves as a reminder of the high standards and professionalism that characterize the French service industry. variations emerging in the UK, Hong Kong, and Yokohama. It serves as a reminder of the unique culture and traditions surrounding café service, and the respect and appreciation these professionals deserve for their dedication to delivering a seamless dining experience.
