Paris, the city of lights, is also the city of delicious food. From classic French bistros to modern eateries with a Mediterranean flair, there’s something for everyone. If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, here are some of Paris’s hottest restaurants that will leave you wanting more.
Bambini: A Taste of Italy on the Palais de Tokyo
Looking for a stylish and casual dining experience? Head to Bambini, a trendy eatery located on the Palais de Tokyo. This Paris Society establishment features a vibrant and playful interior with floral patterns, colorful wicker chandeliers, and a Mediterranean vibe. The Italian menu offers a variety of pasta dishes, pizzas, and a delicious burrata and cherry tomato salad. It’s the perfect spot for a refreshing Spritz and a tasty snack on the terrace while enjoying stunning views of Paris.
Lapérouse: A Parisian Institution with a Rich History
Step back in time and experience the elegance of Lapérouse, a Parisian institution known for its rich history and intimate dining rooms. This “House of Pleasure since 1766” has welcomed some of the world’s most famous artists, politicians, and celebrities, including Victor Hugo, Honoré de Balzac, Ernest Hemingway, Kate Moss, and George Clooney.
Recently restored by the Moma Group, Lapérouse boasts plush fabrics, antique artwork, and cozy boudoir spaces. The exquisite French cuisine has earned the restaurant three Michelin stars. The menu features timeless classics like croque monsieur, escargot, sole meunière, and Chateaubriand, along with decadent desserts like crème brûlée and tarte Tatin.
Laurent: A Grande Dame with a Modern Twist
A Parisian landmark and former royal hunting lodge, Laurent has been revitalized by the Paris Society team, known for creating some of the city’s hottest restaurants. Design wizard Cordelia de Castellane, known for her work with Christian Dior, has given Laurent a fresh look. The ground floor dining rooms feature a greenhouse atmosphere with potted palms and cane furniture, while the second floor offers a variety of private dining rooms, perfect for intimate celebrations.
While the traditional French menu might not please all longtime patrons, they will be delighted by the classic dishes like lobster salad, spider crab with fennel jelly, sole meunière, and roast Bresse chicken. Desserts are presented in a charming “chariot” or cart, adding to the experience.
Lafayette’s: A Fusion of Flavors and History
This 18th-century mansion, once the site of soirées hosted by American-French war hero Marquis de La Fayette, is now home to Lafayette’s. Part of the Moma Group hospitality empire, this enormous Parisian hôtel particulier landmark features Michelin-adored chef Mory Sacko, who infuses French and American staples with his Senegalese heritage.
The menu offers an exciting mix of flavors, including sweet potato curry, sea bass in a banana leaf, foie gras with mango and hibiscus chutney, Entrecôte with béarnaise, and fried chicken. The opulent and sophisticated interior, designed by renowned interior architect Lázaro Rosa-Violán, blends modern style with 19th-century charm, creating a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Le Petit Lutetia: A Classic Parisian Brasserie
For those seeking a classic Parisian brasserie experience with sidewalk seating and people-watching opportunities, Le Petit Lutetia is the perfect choice. Located on the Left Bank, this charming establishment offers a sceney cafe experience, with menu highlights including beef tartare, foie gras, and espresso martinis.
Maxim’s: Back on Paris’s Hot List
Thanks to a revitalization by the hospitality giant Paris Society, the legendary Maxim’s, a storied French restaurant on the Rue Royale, is back on Paris’s hot list after a 14-year hiatus. This Art Nouveau gem, which opened in 1893, has welcomed some of the most famous names in history, including Brigitte Bardot, Jane Birkin, Jackie Kennedy Onassis, Edith Piaf, Jean Cocteau, and King Edward VIII.
The menu features lighter fare with some original items remaining, like the soup VGE. A-listers can enjoy French classics like frog’s legs, foie gras, and Crêpes Suzette, along with American-style lobster and Beluga caviar. The original decor, refreshed by Paris Society artistic director Cordelia de Castellane, remains intact, featuring scarlet and gold accents, Art Deco lamps, and gilded mirrors.
Mimosa: A Taste of the French Riviera
Located in the Hôtel de la Marine, facing its sister restaurant Café Lapérouse, Mimosa offers a playful and summery ambiance inspired by the Riviera spirit of the 60s. The menu, helmed by great chef Jean Francois Piége, celebrates French-Mediterranean cuisine with an emphasis on seafood and a variety of oeufs mimosa, or deviled eggs. Ample outdoor seating makes it the perfect spot for a warm and sunny day.
So, whether you’re looking for a classic Parisian experience, a taste of the Mediterranean, or a fusion of flavors from around the world, these Parisian hot spots are sure to satisfy your culinary cravings.
