Paris is renowned for its culture and as one of the culinary capitals of the world. Filled with an incredible array of restaurants and café’s that offer cuisine that reflects the city’s rich heritage.
From cosy bistros serving traditional French fare to Michelin-starred establishments pushing the boundaries of culinary innovation, Paris offers a dining experience to satisfy every palate. If you're wondering what restaurants you must eat at in Paris, look no further. We’ve put together a selection of places to visit when you’re exploring the Parisian lifestyle.
Exploring the Parisian culture
Before we go into the rich culinary scene of Paris, it's worth noting the many things to do in Paris, from visiting iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum to taking a cruise along the Seine River or browsing the charming boutiques of Le Marais. It’s worth celebrating Paris’ diverse culture during your visit. However, no visit to Paris is complete without indulging in the food, blending tradition with innovation to create unforgettable dining experiences for tourists and locals alike.
Must-visit restaurants and café’s
1) Le Grand Véfour
Nestled in the heart of the Palais-Royal, Le Grand Véfour is filled with history and named a Jewel in Paris’ gastronomic institution. Traditionally filled with Parisian artistic, political and literary society since 1784, this Michelin-starred restaurant now offers a modern menu refined with elegance flavoured by seasonality.
With its opulent Belle Époque décor and impeccable service, you can indulge in classic French dishes crafted with precision and flair, accompanied by an extensive wine list featuring rare vintages from renowned vineyards.
2) Septime
For a taste of contemporary French cuisine in a relaxed yet refined setting, head to Septime in the 11th arrondissement. Headed up by Chef Bertrand Grébaut, this acclaimed restaurant has earned a Michelin star for its innovative approach to seasonal ingredients and bold flavour combinations. Be sure to book well in advance, as reservations at Septime are highly sought after among food enthusiasts and it was even named as one of the world’s Best 50th restaurants in 2021.
3) The Eiffel Tower
It wouldn’t be a trip to Paris without visiting this historic landmark. Dining at the Eiffel Tower is an experience like no other, offering breathtaking views of Paris's iconic skyline. Le 58 Tour Eiffel, located on the first floor of the tower, serves up French cuisine with a modern twist, allowing diners to enjoy panoramic vistas while savouring delightful gourmet dishes.
4) La Ciel de Paris
If dining with a view is what you’re after, look no further than La Ciel de Paris. Perched atop the Montparnasse Tower, the restaurant offers diners unbeatable panoramic views of the city's landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral. This Michelin-starred restaurant specializes in French haute cuisine, with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and innovative presentation. If you’re heading there for an evening, you’ll get a spectacular view of the Eiffel Tower lights through the glass windows.
5) L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon
Step into the culinary world of legendary famous chef Joël Robuchon at L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon, where diners are invited to experience French cuisine mixed with a Spanish flair. Situated in the trendy Saint-Germain-des-Prés district, this Michelin-starred establishment offers an extensive menu of deliciously crafted dishes, from delicate seafood platters to indulgent truffle-infused creations.
6) Le Chateaubriand
If decision-making is hard, visit Le Chateaubriand in the eclectic Belleville neighbourhood. A pioneer of the bistronomy movement, Le Chateaubriand has earned international acclaim for its inventive cuisine and laid-back and “hip” atmosphere. This unassuming bistro serves a daily-changing no-choice tasting menu that showcases the best of seasonal produce and creative culinary techniques. Prepare to be surprised and delighted by Chef Inaki Aizpitarte's bold and imaginative creations. The wine list also comprises biodynamic and organic wines from all over the world.
7) Le Deux Magot
If you’re looking for Parisian café and culture combined with famous literary history, visit Le Deux Magot. A historic café in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, frequented by VIPs such as Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, and Ernest Hemingway, this iconic establishment offers a quintessentially Parisian experience complete with classic French dishes, decadent pastries, and strong espresso served amidst elegant Art Deco surroundings.
8) The Café de Deux Moulins
Immortalized in the film "Amélie," The Café des Deux Moulins, with its retro décor, exudes charm and nostalgia, not to mention its bustling atmosphere. Located in the vibrant Montmartre district, this beloved café serves up classic French dishes alongside quirky cocktails, indulgent desserts and a fabulous coffee.
9) Breizh Café
A journey through Paris’ culinary scene wouldn’t be completed without visiting a crêperie. Nestled in the heart of Paris's bustling Marais district, Breizh Café offers a taste of Brittany's culinary delights in the heart of the French capital. This charming crêperie, with its rustic-chic décor and welcoming ambiance, pays homage to the traditional Breton pancake, known as the galette. Traditionally prepared with buckwheat flour and filled with an array of savoury ingredients such as artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and fresh vegetables, you can’t go round. Pair it with a glass of crisp cider, sourced from the region's finest producers, for an authentic taste of Brittany's gastronomic heritage.
Planning
When planning your culinary adventure in Paris, consider the following tips to make the most of your dining experiences:
Reservations
Many popular restaurants in Paris require reservations, especially those with Michelin stars or high demand. Be sure to book your tables well in advance, particularly for dinner service, to avoid disappointment.
Dress Code
While Paris is known for its fashion-forward culture, most restaurants maintain a smart-casual dress code.
Dietary Preferences
Parisian cuisine is celebrated for its diversity and adaptability, with many restaurants offering vegetarian,
vegan, and gluten-free options. However, it's always a good idea to inform your server of any dietary restrictions or check the menu beforehand.
Exploring the culinary landscape of Paris is an adventure not to be missed. Whether you're savouring classic French dishes at a historic bistro or indulging in innovative cuisine at a Michelin-starred restaurant, dining in Paris is an experience. So, don’t forget to pack your appetite. Bon appétit!
