Paris, the City of Lights, is not just a hub for art and fashion, but also a haven for foodies seeking unforgettable culinary experiences. From iconic cafés to trendy bistros, the Parisian restaurant scene is a delectable adventure waiting to be explored.
Pink Mamma: Where Instagram Meets Italian Delights
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Pigalle, Pink Mamma is a stunning four-story Italian restaurant that’s impossible to miss. Its eye-catching pink facade and Instagram-worthy interiors are as captivating as its cuisine. Designed by Martin Brudnizki Design Studios, the opulent ambiance sets the stage for a delicious dining experience.
Pink Mamma is not just about appearances, it’s about authentic Italian flavors. Their meat is prepared Firenze-style, using corn-fed cows raised on their own farms. The tender and well-aged meat, paired with mouthwatering pasta and pizza varieties, is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. Be sure to try the truffle pasta and the classic Italian tiramisu for a truly memorable treat.
Le Train Bleu: Step Back in Time at Gare de Lyon
For a timeless dining experience, Le Train Bleu at Gare de Lyon is a must-visit. This grand restaurant, built in 1900 for the World’s Fair, retains its original beauty and charm. Breathtaking murals on the walls and ceilings, painted by renowned artists, depict the diverse landscapes of France.
Le Train Bleu offers more than just exquisite decor. Its delectable French cuisine invites guests to escape the modern world’s hustle and bustle. The seasonal menu features a selection of prix fixe options, including the seven-course Train Bleu Menu, the two-course Traveler Menu, and the three-course Paris Lyon Mediterranean Menu. Each dish is a testament to French culinary artistry, making Le Train Bleu a truly unforgettable destination.
Andia: A Latin American Oasis in a Parisian Train Station
Andia, a vibrant Latin American restaurant, offers a unique dining experience in a reimagined Parisian train station. Originally Gare de Passy-Muette, the station was once a bustling hub of rail travel but closed when the Paris Metro took over. After undergoing extensive renovations, the station reopened in 2019, transformed into a spacious and welcoming restaurant that seats up to 300 guests.
Andia’s menu takes diners on a culinary journey through Latin America, featuring dishes inspired by the Andean summits, the Amazonian jungle, and the Caribbean coast of Mexico. Their famous Sunday brunch is a kid-friendly affair, offering a generous buffet and signature dishes from the Andes Cuisine, making it a perfect way to start a Parisian Sunday. The restaurant also boasts a beautiful patio overlooking the open-air kitchen, ideal for a family meal.
Derrière: A Bohemian Paradise in the Heart of Marais
Derrière (French for ‘Behind’), tucked away in a charming courtyard, is a unique restaurant that feels like stepping into a Parisian home. Located in the heart of Marais, Derrière is designed like a Bohemian apartment, with separate dining areas, including a kitchen, a dining room, and a living room complete with a ping-pong table.
Derrière offers a playful and eclectic atmosphere, with two floors, a secret smoking room, a funky bathroom with a bathtub as a sink, and a collection of antique furniture and quirky objects that create a visual feast. The restaurant is known for its brunch, served every Sunday from noon to 4 pm, featuring a buffet and à la carte menu with options like Eggs Benedict, Omelette, Puff Pastry, and Fish of the Day. The à la carte menu showcases traditional French cuisine with dishes like Tartar and Yellow Spring Chicken.
VG Pâtisserie: Vegan Delights in Paris
VG Pâtisserie, the first all-vegan pastry shop in Paris, proves that delicious pastries can be enjoyed without dairy or eggs. Founded by pastry chef Bérénice Leconte, VG Pâtisserie offers a wide variety of pastries, from brioche and pain au chocolat to traditional madeleines and macaroons, all crafted with organic ingredients and local suppliers.
VG Pâtisserie is not just about vegan baking, it’s about sharing the joy of pastry with everyone. Leconte’s books, ‘Patisserie Vegan’ and ‘Mon petit chou vegan’, share her baking tips and recipes, empowering others to create their own vegan treats. VG Pâtisserie also offers classes and demonstrations, allowing enthusiasts to learn the art of vegan baking. And for those looking to indulge, the cozy tea room provides a relaxing setting to savor the delicious pastries.
Épicure: A Michelin-Starred Feast of French Gastronomy
Épicure, led by the three-Michelin-starred chef Eric Frechon, is the epitome of French fine dining. Located in a refined setting with garden access, Épicure offers a gastronomic experience like no other. Chef Frechon’s famous macaroni, stuffed with black truffle, artichoke, and duck foie gras, is a culinary masterpiece.
Épicure is committed to using the finest French ingredients, sourcing its products from respected farmers and breeders. The restaurant’s fine dining menu, featuring eight courses created and changed regularly by Chef Frechon, is a celebration of French culinary tradition and a testament to the chef’s unparalleled skill. Dining at Épicure is a truly unforgettable Parisian experience.
Café de Flore: A Parisian Icon
Café de Flore, a beloved Parisian institution in the 6th arrondissement, has witnessed history unfold. This romantic café, dating back to the 1880s, has been a gathering place for famous writers and philosophers like Jean Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir.
Café de Flore embodies the Parisian spirit with its classic charm and elegant ambiance. While the small eats menu offers a selection of salads, snacks, sandwiches, and egg specialties, it’s the traditional Parisian pâtisserie that steals the show. Crème brûlée à la vanille and Tarte Tatin are just two of the delectable desserts that make Café de Flore an essential Parisian experience.
Stellar: A Global Gastronomic Adventure
Located in the 10th arrondissement, Stellar is a funky restaurant with a global menu. It’s a culinary journey around the world, with shared plates and mains inspired by dishes from different countries.
Stellar’s menu is a flavorful adventure, showcasing dishes like roasted camembert from France, meatballs in chimichurri sauce from Argentina, meat tacos from Mexico, chicken curry from India, and traditional hummus from Lebanon. Stellar even offers a mini astronaut menu for kids under 12, making it a fun and engaging dining experience for all ages.
A Culinary Playground
From Instagram-worthy Italian trattorias to bohemian bistros and Michelin-starred restaurants, Paris offers a diverse and delectable culinary scene. Whether you’re seeking authentic French cuisine, global flavors, or vegan delights, there’s a restaurant in Paris waiting to satisfy your cravings. So, pack your appetite and embark on a culinary adventure through the City of Lights!
