Imagine this: You’re strolling through the City of Lights, the iconic Eiffel Tower towering above you. You’ve managed to secure a reservation at the renowned 58 Tour Eiffel restaurant, located on the first floor of the Iron Lady herself. Is this the start of a romantic Parisian evening, or a tourist trap filled with mediocre food and overpriced wine?
Let’s find out.
A Glimpse of Parisian Glamour
We bypassed the massive queues for the Eiffel Tower’s elevator, joining a smaller line for those with dining reservations. Anticipation hummed in the air as we entered the restaurant, greeted by the grand double doors that swung open with a flourish at precisely 6:30 pm. The elegant space was a whirlwind of activity, with guests eager to soak in the breathtaking views of Paris. The restaurant’s two levels buzzed with excitement, with tour groups enjoying a designated section while couples and small groups enjoyed the intimacy of smaller tables.
A Culinary Journey with Stunning Views
58 Tour Eiffel offers a variety of pre-booked dinner options, ranging in price depending on your desired seating and whether wine is included. We opted for a mid-range option, which provided us with a prime view of the Trocadéro, just one row back from the window. The overall ambiance of the restaurant was sophisticated yet welcoming, a perfect blend of elegance and Parisian charm. Minimalist furnishings and soft lighting enhanced the experience, allowing the breathtaking views to be the star of the show.
Exceptional Food, Exceptional Views
With two two-hour seatings per night, the restaurant operates like a well-oiled machine. Despite the bustling atmosphere, our friendly waiter ensured we felt pampered and relaxed, making us feel like we had all the time in the world.
We were greeted with a glass of Champagne, followed by a surprisingly delicious appetizer of spiced king prawns, artfully presented on a bed of avocado, grapefruit, and edible flowers. This was followed by the main course, a succulent roast herbed guinea fowl breast with mashed potato, green asparagus, and mushroom cream, a true testament to French culinary excellence. My husband, opting for the grilled lamb, equally enjoyed his meal.
The rich chocolate marquise for dessert provided a delightful ending to the meal, leaving us with enough time to savor the views and enjoy another glass of wine. We capped off the evening with a trip to the top of the Eiffel Tower, experiencing the magic of Paris from a whole new perspective.
Beyond Expectations
58 Tour Eiffel is more than just a tourist restaurant; it’s a genuine Parisian dining experience. The food is exquisite, the service impeccable, and the views simply breathtaking. While the décor may be understated, the food and the views more than make up for it.
Our Rating
Location: 10/10
Dining atop the Eiffel Tower is simply unbeatable.
Style/Character: 6/10
The food and the view steal the show, surpassing the simple décor.
Atmosphere: 8/10
The ambiance is lively and romantic, making for a truly memorable dining experience.
Value for Money: 8/10
Considering the exchange rate, the restaurant offers excellent value for the quality of food and the iconic location.
Notes:
- You can also enjoy a picnic-style lunch at the Eiffel Tower without a reservation.
- All reviews are conducted anonymously, and writers pay for their own meals, ensuring an honest and unbiased experience.
For more information on where to eat in Paris, check out our ultimate guide to the City of Love here.
