Have you booked your trip to Paris? It’s exciting! But the eternal question always pops up: Where do I eat without getting stuck in tourist traps? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Many travelers wonder the same thing.
This guide is for you, offering fantastic restaurant recommendations near all the must-see spots in Paris. Whether you crave traditional French cuisine or trendy international flavors, these hidden gems will satisfy your appetite and leave you wanting more.
Moulin Rouge: A Parisian Icon
Get ready to explore the world’s most renowned cabaret! Witness the incredible talent of a 60-person troupe from around the globe, putting on two breathtaking performances nightly at the “Féerie” revue.
This spectacle features four dazzling scenes, bursting with feathers, rhinestones, sequins, glittering decor, acrobats, unique music, and international acts.
If you’ve planned a romantic evening at the Moulin Rouge, these restaurants are ideal for a pre or post-dinner experience.
Dining Near the Moulin Rouge
La Mascotte, just a 10-minute stroll from the Moulin Rouge, offers hands-down the best mussels and frites in Paris. Although primarily a seafood haven, they excel in other dishes as well, perfect for mixed groups.
Reservations are available online, and simply tell them your show time, and they’ll get you served and on your way.
The service is consistently excellent, as is the food.
Bouillon Pigalle is my top choice for families.
Their affordable prices attract crowds, so expect a line by 7:00 p.m. Arrive early, enjoy a great meal, and explore the neighborhood before your show if you have time. This is the best value in the area.
Hidden Gems: Vin Cave des Abbesses & Le Petit Moulin
Shhh, this one’s a secret: Vin Cave des Abbesses. While not a traditional restaurant, it’s a fantastic option for a bite.
They serve incredible cheese plates and delectable charcuterie alongside some of the finest wines you’ll find. This is a hot tip!
Reservations are not available, but during summer, they offer a few outdoor tables in addition to their hidden backroom.
Insider tip: Choose any wine from their vast selection or order from their extensive wine list.
Le Petit Moulin (no website, no phone, no reservations) is a small eatery at 17 Rue Tholoze, just a stone’s throw from the Moulin Rouge. It’s perfect for a bite after the early show or before the late show.
Upstairs, 26 seats offer a fantastic view of Montmartre, while downstairs, a lively atmosphere awaits.
Don’t blink, or you might miss it!
Eiffel Tower: Beyond the Tourist Trap
The Eiffel Tower often conjures images of tourist trap nightmares. Overpriced crepe stands, souvenir photos, and typical tourist traps make it my least favorite part of Paris.
However, there are some good dining options, although not many and not cheap.
Elevated Dining: Tomy&Co and Carmine Cafe
Tomy&Co is a standout, boasting a Michelin star. Expect to pay around €100 per person, if not more.
While some argue that Michelin stars are merely a marketing ploy, I can assure you the food here is exquisite, regardless of the star rating.
Carmine Cafe is my go-to for visitors who simply must go to the Tower.
Reservations can be made online, and it serves solid bistro fare, with a rotating menu.
The last time I visited, I enjoyed an exceptional pork dish and fantastic fries. Good wine by the glass and pleasant service make it a welcome break from the tourist frenzy.
Musée d’Orsay: A Journey Through Art and History
The Musée d’Orsay is housed in the former Gare d’Orsay train station, built in 1900 for the Paris Universal Exhibition. Inside, you’ll find a treasure trove of over 4,000 artworks, including sculptures, paintings, and drawings from the Impressionist, Expressionist, and Pointillist movements spanning from 1848 to 1914.
Julia Child’s Paris: Brasserie Bourbon
You don’t need to be a top chef from Le Cordon Bleu to appreciate Julia Child’s Paris. The vivacious woman, who shared her love of French cooking with the world, cherished her time in Paris, a city that truly knows how to enjoy the finer things in life.
These attractions are all close to my favorite Parisian restaurant: Brasserie Bourbon.
Their menu is packed with French classics, like chicken in an exquisite tartar sauce or the best steak tartare in Paris.
I love to visit the Impressionists and then have dinner here.
The service is always excellent, and enough English is spoken to get by. I even have a favorite waiter: Mike. His name is unusual for a Frenchman, but if you see him, give him a high five and my regards.
Opera National de Paris: A Culinary Oasis
The Opera National de Paris area is charming, with several excellent cafes on the side streets. You’ll be satisfied with their offerings.
However, if you can snag a reservation at…
Juveniles, it’s the place to be.
I was one of the first customers 37 years ago when it opened. I was a young, hungry man, and the owner, speaking English, introduced me to some of the most memorable food and wine I’d tasted in Paris. While I’m no longer so young, the chef has changed, but the food is still inventive and delicious.
If you crave great wine, unfussy service, and a full belly, I highly recommend this eatery.
Reservations are required; call for them; no online reservations.
The Louvre: A Feast for the Senses
The Louvre is a challenging place to find a good restaurant, with tourist traps galore in the area. I finally found satisfaction at…
Louvre Ripaille, which takes online reservations. While not cheap, the quality is high, and the service is good.
Another option for both the Louvre and the Opera is The Ellsworth.
It has a small menu, high-quality food, and efficient service.
I celebrated a birthday there, and they had pig cheeks in a green peppercorn sauce. They occasionally offer a French twist on an American dish, which delights everyone.
Extra Tips for Choosing the Right Restaurant in Paris
Anywhere in Paris, finding a good eatery when you’re hungry without my lists can be tough. However, every neighborhood has at least one Artisan Bakery.
Look for the word Artisan. It means the baker has mastered their craft. In France, this has a legal meaning.
Great sandwiches, quiches, and other delectable items will abound. They sometimes have chairs or stools, or you can enjoy your meal on the street. A jambon baguette is a delicious lunch while touring, and it won’t break the bank.
A great way to judge a restaurant is by menu size. The smaller the menu, the more likely the food is excellent.
And if you see a sign that says Pizza, Burgers, French Classics, run far, run fast! You’ve encountered one of our shameful tourist traps.
And yes, there are definitely more options out there that I haven’t explored yet. You might find longer lists, but I vouch for the top-notch food quality of these recommendations.
Plus, why not join me on one of my food tours? We can delve even deeper into the amazing Parisian food scene together.
Chef PJ: A Food Tour to Remember
Experience the enchanting allure of Montmartre with Chef PJ, a talented Parisian chef who brings the vibrant culture and distinct flavors of his city to life. Immerse yourself in the local food scene on this tour guided by a chef with deep roots and extensive experience in Paris’s dynamic district. Start off with a classic “café au lait” and a freshly baked croissant at a charming café, just like a true Parisian.
At Chef PJ’s restaurant, savor a homemade three-course meal paired with carefully selected French wines – Rosé, White, and Red – and finish it off with a chat about the best pastries and chocolates in town while enjoying a glass of “Pet-Nat.”
Embark on a personal journey through Montmartre’s hidden gems, sampling secret recipes and hearing captivating stories along the way. With Chef PJ’s stellar reputation from previous food tours, get ready for a memorable and highly praised experience.
Price: €129 each
Starts at: 11:00 at Blanche Subway Station.
Duration: 5 hours.
Live Guide: English.
Unfit for vegans.
Chef PJ: A Montmartre Wine & Dine Experience
Join Chef PJ on a unique evening adventure in Montmartre, exploring hidden gems and exclusive wine bars.
Experience the thrill of discovering off-the-beaten-path spots while enjoying drinks and snacks along the way. Immerse yourself in a secret Paris market and indulge in wine tasting with an expert.
This VIP tour offers a luxurious insider’s look at the mysteries of Paris for those seeking the best experiences.
