Imagine a restaurant perched 95 meters above the City of Lights, offering breathtaking views of the Seine and the iconic cityscape. This isn’t just a dream; it’s the reality of 58 Tour Eiffel, a chic brasserie nestled within the first floor of the Eiffel Tower. But the history of dining at this Parisian landmark is as intriguing as the structure itself.
Back in 1889, when the Eiffel Tower first opened its doors, four restaurants graced its first floor. These dining spots, powered by gaslight and with kitchens nestled beneath, offered a glimpse into the culinary scene of the era. However, time brought change, and these original restaurants were demolished for the 1937 International Exposition. In their place, only two restaurants stood.
A Restaurant Through Time
The 1980s marked a new chapter in the history of dining at the Eiffel Tower. During this time, the iconic structure underwent significant renovations, leading to the birth of La Belle France and Le Parisien. These restaurants quickly became must-visit destinations for Parisians and tourists alike. The constant desire for evolution brought another change; these two restaurants eventually merged into one grand brasserie, Altitude 95, designed by Slavik and Loup, with a whimsical hot air balloon theme.
But the story of the Eiffel Tower’s dining scene doesn’t end there. In 2009, the brasserie underwent another transformation, this time under the skilled hands of interior designer Patrick Jouin. This renovation brought a contemporary chic design, a new name – 58 Tour Eiffel – and a fresh culinary vision under the guidance of Chef Alain Soulard.
A Picnic with a View
The 58 Tour Eiffel presents a unique experience for diners. During the day, the atmosphere is relaxed and casual, mirroring the Parisian chic picnic style. The restaurant’s lunch menu features a selection of delightful two or three-course options, including enticing dishes like Caesar salad, seared bonito tuna, and roasted poultry risotto. These culinary delights are served in charming baskets, encouraging guests to savor their meal amidst the stunning Parisian scenery.
The lunch service is continuous, running from 11:30 AM to 4:30 PM, with last orders for main courses at 3:45 PM. It is a fantastic option for those looking for a casual and delicious meal with a view. You don’t need a reservation for lunch, but remember, you’ll need a ticket to ascend the Eiffel Tower to access the restaurant.
An Evening of Elegance
As the sun sets and the city lights twinkle, 58 Tour Eiffel transforms into a sophisticated haven, perfect for a romantic dinner or a special celebration. The restaurant’s evening menu offers a refined selection of classic French cuisine, featuring dishes such as seared tiger prawn, duck foie gras, seared salmon fillet, and oven-roasted leg of lamb. The elegant ambiance, minimalist furniture, and soft lighting create an intimate atmosphere that enhances the dining experience.
For an evening at 58 Tour Eiffel, reservations are a must, with two seating times available: 6:30 PM and 9 PM. The evening menu is equally impressive, offering a variety of options, including the “Opera Menu” starting at €70 per person, which includes a starter, main course, dessert, and a glass of champagne.
For those seeking an extra special experience, the Service Premier is available at the 9 PM seating. This exclusive option offers privileged seating in the main dining room, with the choice of regular seating or window seating with breathtaking views of the Trocadero. This experience includes a tasting menu, featuring an aperitif, starter, two main courses, dessert, mignardises, wine, mineral water, and coffee. As of 2012, the cost for the Service Premier is €135 per person (€155 with window seating).
And don’t forget about the little ones! A dedicated children’s menu is available for those under 12, offering a delicious selection of dishes at a reduced cost. Even with the Service Premier, a children’s menu is available, including a delightful Eiffel Tower-shaped chocolate cake.
Dining at the Peak of Paris
Whether you’re seeking a casual picnic-style lunch with spectacular views or an elegant evening dining experience, 58 Tour Eiffel offers a unique culinary journey at the peak of the City of Lights. Reservations for dinner are highly recommended, and you can easily make them online at the official Eiffel Tower website. Remember, even for evening meals, you’ll need to purchase tickets to ascend the Eiffel Tower to access the restaurant.
