The 10 Best Restaurants of Paris

Paris is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in the world, known for its iconic landmarks, rich history, museums, and fashion. However, its nightlife and food scene also make it one of the most vibrant and memorable cities in the world. Paris is a haven for foodies, and it offers an astounding range of options for dining out. From Michelin-starred restaurants, bistros, and cafes to street-side vendors, Paris never fails to impress food lovers.

Here are the ten best restaurants that you must visit when in Paris:

1. Le Jules Verne

Located on the second level of the Eiffel Tower, Le Jules Verne offers an unparalleled dining experience with its stunning views of the city. It serves classic French cuisine, curated by Alain Ducasse, which includes truffle-scented white asparagus, and the iconic “Soufflé Suissesse” that you must try.

2. Le Comptoir du Relais

A favorite of both locals and tourists, Le Comptoir du Relais is a classic Parisian bistro that offers a cozy ambiance and mouth-watering dishes. The menu includes traditional French dishes such as escargots, ratatouille, and steak frites. Do try their classic rum baba with whipped cream.

3. Septime

A contemporary and minimalist bistro, Septime has become synonymous with modern French cuisine, making it one of the hottest dining spots in the city. The menu changes regularly, but expect dishes such as raw scallops with bergamot.

4. La Maison de la Truffe

Located just off the Champs-Elysées, La Maison de la Truffe is a truffle lover’s paradise, offering a range of dishes that all incorporate France’s most prized ingredient: truffles. Do try their truffle risotto that comes loaded with black truffle shavings.

5. L’Arpège

A three-Michelin starred restaurant, L’Arpège is the brainchild of chef Alain Passard and offers a wide range of vegetarian and meat dishes. Their signature dishes include the famous beetroot carpaccio, vegetable tartlets, and classic roast chicken.

6. Chez L’Ami Jean

Chez L’Ami Jean is one of the best Basque restaurants in Paris, and the decor is a mix of industrial and rustic. The menu is packed with hearty dishes such as confit pork belly and beef cheeks stew. Do try their famous gateau Basque for dessert.

7. Le Calife

Le Calife is one of the best dinner riverboat cruises on the Seine River, known for its romantic setting and stunning views of the city. You can choose from a variety of menus, including a four-course meal that includes foie gras, beef, and fondant au chocolat.

8. Le Train Bleu

Located in the Gare de Lyon train station, Le Train Bleu looks more like a palace than a restaurant, with its stunning decor of chandeliers, frescoes, and gold leaf. The menu is traditional French, with dishes such as French onion soup, duck confit, and the classic Crème Brulee.

9. Le Comptoir Robuchon

Le Comptoir Robuchon is a contemporary bistro owned by the world-famous chef Joel Robuchon, who has a total of 28 Michelin stars throughout his career. The restaurant offers a range of delicacies such as foie gras with apple confit, coddled eggs with smoked salmon and wasabi, and lemongrass ice cream.

10. L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon

L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon is the right place to savor French gastronomy at its best. It won one Michelin star when it opened, and the restaurant now has 25 stars worldwide. Do try their famous black cod with miso, and their amuse-bouche of truffled langoustine ravioli.

Conclusion

Paris is truly a paradise for foodies, offering an array of culinary experiences. From fine-dining restaurants to cozy bistros and street vendors, there is something to suit every palate and budget. These ten restaurants are the best in the city, offering unique and unforgettable dining experiences. So, don’t hesitate to visit these places on your next trip to Paris. Bon appétit!

Insider’s Guide to Paris

For those who want to experience the real Paris, beyond the tourist traps, this guide is for you. Paris is not only about the Eiffel Tower and Louvre, there are hidden gems that only locals know. Here are some off-beat suggestions for you to explore.

Local Attractions

One place that is not to be missed is the charming Canal Saint-Martin district. This neighborhood is lined with trendy cafes, independent boutiques, and beautiful walkways along the water. You can enjoy a relaxing picnic in the park, shop for unique souvenirs, or take a boat ride along the canal.

A lesser-known museum in Paris is the Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature, which showcases the history of hunting and nature conservation. It is located in the beautiful Marais district and is perfect for nature lovers.

Dining Spots

Paris is famous for its bakery culture, so make sure to try a freshly baked croissant or baguette from Boulangerie Julien. For the quintessential Parisian dining experience, head to Chez L’Ami Jean. This restaurant is famous for its Basque cuisine and is loved by locals. Don’t miss out on their signature dish, a creamy rice pudding topped with caramelized crust.

The city’s food culture is also steeped in history. Le Procope, for example, opened in 1686 and is the oldest surviving restaurant in Paris. The likes of Rousseau, Voltaire, and Victor Hugo frequented this place, making it a historic landmark among the city’s culinary spots.

Cultural Experiences

Paris is a melting pot of cultures and traditions. You can witness that at the annual Fête de la Musique, a city-wide music festival that takes place in June. For art lovers, the Musée d’Orsay has a vast collection of French art, especially from the Impressionist and Post-Impressionist eras.

The city is also known for its love of cinema. Each year, the Paris International Film Festival is held in the city to showcase some of the world’s best independent films.

Local History

One fascinating piece of Paris’s past is the Catacombs, an underground ossuary that houses around six million Parisians’ remains. You can take a tour of this hauntingly beautiful place to understand Paris’ unique history.

Paris also has a rich literary heritage. One famous landmark is the Shakespeare and Company bookstore, which has been a haven for writers like James Joyce, Ernest Hemingway, and Gertrude Stein. It continues its legacy as a hub for literary enthusiasts today.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a unique experience, head to La Felicità, a massive food hall that has something to offer for every kind of foodie. It has a microbrewery, rooftop bar, and even a nightclub.

Another must-visit spot is the Père Lachaise Cemetery, final resting place for such famous figures as Oscar Wilde, Edith Piaf, and Jim Morrison.

In conclusion, Paris is a city that never ceases to amaze its visitors. Beyond the usual attractions, there is so much more to this beautiful city than meets the eye. Use this guide to get a taste of the real Paris and discover the city’s hidden gems.