The Eiffel Tower, a symbol of Paris, has witnessed a fascinating evolution in its dining scene since its grand opening in 1889. Initially, four restaurants graced the tower’s first floor, their kitchens nestled below, powered by gaslight. This early culinary landscape was a testament to the tower’s ambition, offering dining experiences that were as grand as the structure itself.
From Humble Beginnings to Hot Air Balloon Dreams
The 1937 International Exposition ushered in a significant shift. The original four restaurants were replaced with two, marking a change in direction. This transformation was followed by further renovations in the 1980s, leading to the establishment of La Belle France and Le Parisien, restaurants widely recognized as must-visit destinations in Paris. A new era arrived in the mid-20th century when the two restaurants were merged, giving birth to Altitude 95, a sprawling brasserie designed by Slavik and Loup. The theme of hot air balloons, a nod to the tower’s soaring height, added a touch of whimsy to the experience.
58 Tour Eiffel: A Modern Parisian Gem
A complete makeover in 2009 resulted in the elegant 58 Tour Eiffel, reflecting the design talents of Patrick Jouin, who also shaped the Jules Verne restaurant’s interior. This chic brasserie, named after its altitude of 58 meters above ground, offers a seamless blend of Parisian sophistication and culinary excellence.
Picnic Charm Meets Gourmet Delights
The 58 Tour Eiffel’s daytime experience is all about casual elegance. A non-stop service, running from 11:30 am to 4:30 pm, caters to a chic, picnic-inspired lunch. Guests are invited to select from a curated menu and enjoy their meals, presented in charming baskets, at tables that offer unparalleled views of the city. The menu, crafted by Chef Alain Soulard, who has collaborated with renowned chef Alain Ducasse, features high-quality French cuisine, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to culinary excellence.
Evening Soirée: A World of Parisian Glamour
As the sun sets, the 58 Tour Eiffel transforms into a haven of romantic ambiance. Two sittings, at 6:30 pm and 9 pm, provide the perfect setting for an evening high above Paris. The restaurant’s contemporary décor, with its soft lighting and minimalist furniture, designed by Patrick Jouin, creates an atmosphere of understated luxury that complements the breathtaking views. Each evening, diners are greeted by a hostess and ushered to their tables, ready to savor a delectable French culinary experience.
A Culinary Journey for All Tastes
The 58 Tour Eiffel’s menu boasts a delightful array of options for both lunch and dinner. Lunchtime brings a choice of two or three-course set menus, featuring tempting dishes like Caesar salad, seared bonito tuna, or roasted poultry risotto. For those with little ones, a dedicated children’s menu ensures that even the youngest diners can experience the joy of dining at this Parisian landmark.
The evening menu elevates the experience, with choices like seared tiger prawn with avocado, soya, and sesame dressing, or duck foie gras with red onion marmalade, honey, and balsamic for starters. Main course delights include seared salmon fillet with carrots, green peas, and white butter sauce, or oven-roasted leg of lamb with Anna potatoes, artichokes, and real jus.
Splurge on a Special Occasion
For those seeking a truly special occasion, the Service Premier offers a luxurious experience. This 9 pm sitting provides privileged seating in the main dining room or, for an extra touch of indulgence, window seating with stunning views of the Trocadero. The Service Premier features a tasting menu that includes an aperitif, starter, two main courses, dessert, mignardises, wine, mineral water, and coffee. This memorable experience costs €135 per person or €155 with window seating.
Dining Dreams for Every Guest
The 58 Tour Eiffel also caters to families, offering children’s menus with delightful touches like a chocolate cake in the shape of the Eiffel Tower, allowing even the youngest members of the family to fully embrace the magic of the experience.
It’s important to note that access to the 58 Tour Eiffel requires a ticket to ascend the Eiffel Tower, even for evening bookings. Reservations can be made online through the official Eiffel Tower website.
The Eiffel Tower’s culinary journey is a testament to its enduring allure. From its humble beginnings to its current incarnation as a chic, modern brasserie, the 58 Tour Eiffel provides a unique dining experience that seamlessly blends Parisian sophistication, culinary excellence, and breathtaking views, making it a must-visit destination for any visitor to the City of Lights.
