The Eiffel Tower, a Parisian icon, has always been a beacon of elegance and grandeur. But did you know that its history is intertwined with an ever-evolving culinary story? Let’s delve into the transformation of the restaurant experience at the top of this magnificent structure.
From Gaslights to Gourmet
Imagine four restaurants gracing the first floor of the Eiffel Tower back in 1889. Their kitchens, fueled by gaslight, hummed with activity, serving hungry patrons. However, time marched on, and for the 1937 International Exposition, the original restaurants were demolished, replaced by a pair of newly constructed eateries. Fast forward to the 1980s, and the Eiffel Tower underwent a major makeover, giving birth to La Belle France and Le Parisien, two Parisian gems not to be missed.
A Balloon-Themed Brasserie: The Altitude 95
The restaurant scene took yet another turn, with the merging of La Belle France and Le Parisien into Altitude 95, a large brasserie conceived by Slavik and Loup. Its name aptly reflects its 95-meter altitude, and its hot air balloon theme added a whimsical touch to the dining experience.
A Chic Makeover: The 58 Tour Eiffel Emerges
The 58 Tour Eiffel, as we know it today, emerged in 2009 after a complete renovation by Patrick Jouin, the mastermind behind the Jules Verne restaurant’s interior design. This chic transformation brought a new look and feel to the space, showcasing a contemporary aesthetic with a focus on elegant simplicity.
A Picnic-Style Lunch with Parisian Flair
The 58 Tour Eiffel embraces a unique dining concept, offering picnic-style lunches from 11:30 am to 4:30 pm. Imagine savoring a delightful meal while overlooking the iconic sights of Paris. You’ll find a non-stop service, with the last orders for main courses placed at 3:45 pm. Your meal arrives in a charming basket, ready to be carried to your table, perfectly embodying the picnic theme.
An Evening of Elegance: Dining Under the Stars
As the sun sets, the 58 Tour Eiffel transforms into a sophisticated evening destination, offering a distinctive ambiance complete with soft lighting and minimalist furniture. Patrick Jouin’s design ensures a luxurious experience, while the panoramic views remain the undisputed star of the show. You’ll be greeted by a hostess and shown to your table, ready to enjoy a chic yet classic French cuisine served amidst the glittering cityscape.
A Culinary Journey: Menus and Options
The 58 Tour Eiffel menu offers a delightful array of French delicacies, changing seasonally to showcase the freshest ingredients. For lunch, you can choose from a two-course or three-course menu, with delectable options like Caesar salad, seared bonito tuna, and roasted poultry risotto. Don’t forget to save room for a sweet treat like the Crousti Eiffel cake.
Evening Delights: A Culinary Experience Like No Other
When the evening arrives, the 58 Tour Eiffel offers an elevated dining experience. Book your table in advance and choose from a variety of evening menus, starting from €70 per person. Indulge in starters such as seared tiger prawn or duck foie gras, followed by main courses like seared salmon fillet or oven-roasted leg of lamb.
Special Occasions and Elevated Experiences
For a truly unforgettable occasion, consider the Service Premier, available at the 9 pm sitting. This option grants you privileged seating in the main dining room and includes a tasting menu with an aperitif, starter, two main courses, dessert, mignardises, wine, mineral water, and coffee. For an additional touch of luxury, opt for window seating with breathtaking views of the Trocadero.
For All Tastes: Children’s Menus and Accessibility
The 58 Tour Eiffel caters to all ages, offering children’s menus with delicious options at a reduced price. And yes, even the Service Premier has a dedicated children’s menu, ensuring a delightful experience for the little ones. Remember that a ticket to ascend the Eiffel Tower is required to access the restaurant, even for evening meals.
A Parisian Must-Visit: Embrace the Eiffel Tower’s Culinary Legacy
The 58 Tour Eiffel has become a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a memorable Parisian dining experience. From picnic-style lunches to elegant evening dinners, the restaurant offers a unique blend of culinary artistry and breathtaking views.
Don’t forget to book your table in advance and embark on a culinary journey that will leave you with lasting memories of Paris.
