Imagine this: You’re strolling through the heart of Paris, the iconic Eiffel Tower towering above you, and you have a table waiting for you inside its very structure. It’s a dream for many, and for us, it was a reality.
We were feeling a bit smug as we skipped past the long lines of people waiting to simply ascend the tower, instead joining the smaller queue reserved for diners. Our goal? To enjoy a romantic evening with French wine, delicious food, and breathtaking views. We were hopeful, but there was a tiny part of us that worried we might be in for a disappointing, tourist-trap experience.
A Parisian Feast in the Clouds
As we stepped into the exclusive elevator, excitement filled the air. Everyone was eager to catch a glimpse of the city and the dining venue awaiting us. We were whisked up to the first floor, where the grand double doors swung open with a flourish, revealing the restaurant’s two levels bustling with life. The intimate tables for two and four were carefully separated from the larger groups, creating a sense of privacy within the lively atmosphere.
The 58 Tour Eiffel restaurant offers three pre-booked dining options, with prices ranging from $118 to $165 depending on the table’s location and whether wine is included. We were lucky enough to secure a “privileged seating in the main room” booking, which provided us with the same stunning Trocadéro view as the most expensive tables, just one row back from the window. The restaurant’s minimalist furnishings and soft lighting created an elegant atmosphere that perfectly complimented the beauty of the Paris skyline.
An Unexpected Culinary Delight
With two two-hour seatings per night, the restaurant operates with military precision. Despite the efficient service, our friendly waiter managed to make us feel like we had all the time in the world. After a welcome glass of Champagne, our spiced king prawns arrived, artfully presented atop a colorful mix of avocado, grapefruit, and sweet edible flowers. The dish was far better than we expected from what we initially perceived as a tourist restaurant.
Our roast herbed guinea fowl breast followed, served with mashed potato, green asparagus, and mushroom cream. It was quintessentially French and just as impressive as my husband’s grilled lamb. We took a moment to savor the view and another glass of wine before indulging in the rich chocolate marquise for dessert.
More Than Just a View: A Memorable Experience
The 58 Tour Eiffel offers more than just a spectacular view of Paris. The food and service exceeded our expectations, making the experience truly memorable. We ended our evening with a trip to the top of the Eiffel Tower – the perfect ending to a Parisian dream.
If you find yourself in Paris, don’t just take a picture of the Eiffel Tower. Step inside and experience it from a whole new perspective. You might just discover a culinary gem hidden in plain sight!
Location: 10/10 (Dining atop the Eiffel Tower is hard to beat)
Style/Character: 6/10 (The food and view outshine the bland décor)
Atmosphere: 8/10 (Bustling and lively with a touch of romance)
Value for money: 8/10 (Better than expected given the exchange rate)
Notes:
- You can also visit for a picnic-style lunch without a reservation.
- All IT reviews are conducted anonymously, and our writers pay their own way, so we experience exactly what you would.
- For more information on where to eat in Paris, read our ultimate guide to the city of love here.