Panama Finca Deborah Illumination

Louis Larsonneur founded Substance in 2018 in the Oberkampf area of Paris's 11th arrondissement after working at Broken Biscuits and other specialty cafes in the city. The name is a statement of intent: substance over style, quality over trends. Louis roasts on site in small batches using a light Nordic approach, keeping 8 to 12 coffees available at any time, primarily single origins sourced through direct relationships from Ethiopia, Kenya, Colombia, Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Panama, with a particular interest in experimental processing and rare varieties. The space doubles as a wine bar in the evenings with a natural wine program, and a weekend brunch draws crowds to a menu of sourdough sandwiches, salads, and vegan options alongside the filter and espresso programs. Community is central: Substance hosts coffee workshops, producer talks, guest roaster pop ups, and regular collaborations with visiting roasters. Featured on European Coffee Trip and in Paris specialty guides, it has become a hub for the city's progressive coffee community.