Paris’ iconic Eiffel Tower is undergoing a major makeover, and its culinary offerings are taking center stage! From the bustling forecourt to the majestic top, a gastronomic adventure awaits visitors.
A New “Visitor Experience”
The Société d’Exploitation de la Tour Eiffel (SETE), the company that manages the tower, envisioned a complete transformation of the visitor experience. They aimed to create a seamless journey that would delight visitors with diverse culinary delights and showcase the best of French terroir. This new vision extends from the foot of the tower to its highest point, creating a culinary path that mirrors the journey itself.
A Bite at the Base
Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by a beautifully redesigned forecourt. A tranquil lake and lush greenery provide a peaceful backdrop for mobile food stalls known as “Cornets de la Tour Eiffel.” These booths offer a range of options, from plant-based delights to classic French treats like waffles and crepes. For those seeking a savory bite, delivery tricycles bring a selection of dishes, including Parisian hot dogs, candies, detox bars, soup, and ice cream during the summer months.
Streamlined Service: The “Abeilles”
To enhance the visitor experience, the SETE partnered with Ubudu, a company specializing in flow management and geolocation. “Abeilles,” or “bees” (hosts or hostesses), roam the forecourt equipped with tablets and credit card terminals, offering a seamless ordering and delivery experience right to your location.
Le Bistro: Casual Comfort on the First Floor
The iconic Buffet on the first floor is set to close its doors in October 2019, only to reemerge in December with a fresh new look and a new name: Le Bistro. A casual, all-day dining experience, Le Bistro offers a selection of sandwiches crafted by renowned chef Thierry Marx, alongside a tempting array of pastries and viennoiseries.
For lunch, indulge in warm and flavorful dishes like the “Monsieur Gustave” grilled cheese or pasta shells with Prince de Paris ham. As the day turns into night, enjoy hearty terroir-inspired dishes such as beef shepherd’s pie, salt cod with mashed potatoes, or a comforting vegan gratin.
Le Bistro: More Than Just a Meal
Le Bistro is also a haven for gourmet delights. French and artisanal candies, personalized cookies, caramelized almonds, and peanuts are perfect for an on-the-go snack or a souvenir to bring home.
Thierry Marx’s New Brasserie
Chef Thierry Marx is bringing his culinary prowess to the Eiffel Tower’s first-floor brasserie in early 2020. While the restaurant undergoes renovation, Marx has already begun crafting a new menu, which visitors can experience from March 13 to September 2019.
The brasserie will be transformed during the renovation, with a focus on accessibility and all-day dining. The design will feature natural materials and a connection to the French terroir, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
From a Parisian breakfast to a bistronomic dinner, the brasserie will offer something for every taste and occasion. Architects Ramy Fischler and Nicola Delon have carefully crafted the space, using natural materials and earthy tones to create a harmonious blend of contemporary and traditional elements.
Le Jules Verne: A Gourmet Destination
Three-Michelin-starred chef Frédéric Anton, known for his work at Pré Catelan, takes the helm of the Eiffel Tower’s gourmet restaurant, Le Jules Verne, which is set to reopen in late May 2019. Anton’s vision is to make Le Jules Verne a must-visit destination for discerning diners.
Le Jules Verne will offer a refined culinary experience throughout the day, from breakfast to dinner. The elegant decor, designed by architect Aline Asmar d’Amman, evokes French elegance, with a fusion of decorative arts and gastronomy. The restaurant boasts breathtaking views of Paris and features a light and airy atmosphere inspired by period photographs.
Le Jules Verne is a testament to the art of fine dining, where the food, the view, and the atmosphere create a truly unforgettable experience.
A Champagne Bar: A Toast to the Clouds
Nestled 276 meters above the ground, the Champagne Bar is set to reopen in spring 2019, offering a unique opportunity to experience a champagne and French caviar pairing while enjoying panoramic views of Paris.
The bar’s design is a visual feast, showcasing the best of French design and audiovisual technology. It is a space where the beauty of the surroundings and the elegance of the offerings come together to create a truly remarkable experience.
The Eiffel Tower: A Symbol of Culinary Excellence
The Eiffel Tower’s culinary transformation is a testament to its ongoing commitment to excellence. With a diverse range of dining experiences, the tower is sure to delight visitors of all tastes and budgets. From casual bites to gourmet delights, the Eiffel Tower continues to be a beacon of culinary innovation and a symbol of French gastronomy worldwide.
