Procopio Cutò, French entrepreneur (d. 1727)

Procopio Cutò, born Francesco Procopio Cutò on February 9, 1651, in Sicily, and later known as Francesco Procopio dei Coltelli or François Procope, was an innovative Italian chef whose culinary and entrepreneurial spirit profoundly shaped Parisian culture. His adopted surname, "dei Coltelli" (of the knives), subtly hints at his profession and skill. Procopio Cutò is historically celebrated as the visionary founder of what stands today as Paris's most ancient and continuously operating café, the iconic Café Procope.

Established in 1686, Café Procope rapidly distinguished itself by billing its proprietor as a "modern Procopius," a reference often interpreted as an aspiration to foster a new era of intellectual and social discourse, much like the Byzantine historian Procopius chronicled his own era. Located strategically in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés at what is now Rue de l'Ancienne Comédie, this establishment wasn't merely a place to enjoy a beverage; it fundamentally transformed Parisian social life. It swiftly became recognized as the first literary coffeehouse in Paris, a groundbreaking concept where the nascent coffee culture met intellectual ferment.

For over two centuries, Café Procope served as a crucible for ideas, attracting an unparalleled constellation of celebrated figures across the realms of arts, politics, and literature. During the Enlightenment, it was a preferred haunt for luminaries such as Voltaire, who reportedly consumed up to 40 cups of coffee a day there, fueling his prolific writing, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau. Encyclopédistes like Denis Diderot found a vibrant space for debate and collaboration within its walls. Later, during the tumultuous period of the French Revolution, key figures including Maximilien Robespierre, Georges Danton, and Jean-Paul Marat frequented the café, planning revolutionary strategies. Even future emperor Napoleon Bonaparte was known to dine there, famously leaving his bicorne hat as collateral for a meal he couldn't pay for. American statesmen such as Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson also visited, allegedly discussing elements of the U.S. Constitution within its historic ambiance. This enduring legacy solidifies Café Procope's status not just as a restaurant, but as a monumental landmark in the history of intellectual and political thought.

Frequently Asked Questions about Procopio Cutò and Café Procope

Who was Procopio Cutò?

Procopio Cutò, also known as Francesco Procopio dei Coltelli or François Procope, was a Sicilian chef and entrepreneur (1651–1727) who founded Café Procope in Paris in 1686, establishing the city's first literary coffeehouse and oldest continuously operating café.

What is Café Procope famous for?

Café Procope is renowned as the oldest extant café in Paris and the city's first literary coffeehouse. It served as a pivotal gathering place for influential figures of the Enlightenment and the French Revolution, making it a significant site for intellectual discourse and political strategizing.

Which famous historical figures frequented Café Procope?

Throughout its long history, Café Procope attracted an impressive array of notables including Enlightenment philosophers Voltaire, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Denis Diderot; French Revolutionaries Maximilien Robespierre, Georges Danton, and Jean-Paul Marat; and even Napoleon Bonaparte. American founding fathers Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson were also known patrons.

Is Café Procope still open today?

Yes, Café Procope remains open and continues to operate as a restaurant and historic landmark on Rue de l'Ancienne Comédie in the 6th arrondissement of Paris, allowing visitors to experience its rich historical atmosphere.