Beyond the social benefits, reopening bars could also boost local economies by creating jobs—not just for those behind the counter, but also for suppliers, from local breweries and wineries to bakeries, butchers, and farmers providing produce for bar snacks and meals. In some areas, a single café reopening could mean the difference between a thriving village and one that slowly fades away.
Of course, there are concerns. The French health ministry estimates that alcohol consumption causes around 49,000 deaths per year, calling it a “major public health issue.” But supporters of the bill argue that responsible drinking in community spaces is not the problem—in fact, it’s often a healthier alternative to solitary drinking at home.
If this bill leads to a revival of village cafés, it could mean more than just the return of a beloved French tradition. It could be the spark that rekindles the spirit of rural life, where a simple café terrace becomes a place where friendships form, ideas flow, and communities thrive once again. One thing’s for sure—many in France will be raising a glass to the return of their local bar.