Imagine the Eiffel Tower, a Parisian icon, in its early days. Back in 1889, when the tower first opened its gates to the world, it boasted four restaurants on the first floor. These restaurants, with their kitchens nestled below, were powered by the warm glow of gas lighting, adding a touch of old-world charm to the dining experience.
The years rolled by, and the dining landscape of the Eiffel Tower underwent a series of transformations. The 1937 International Exposition saw the demolition of the original four restaurants, replaced by a pair of new establishments. In the 1980s, the tower underwent a massive makeover, and these two restaurants were redesigned, christened La Belle France and Le Parisien, becoming must-visit spots in the Parisian culinary scene.
A Fusion of Elegance and History: The Evolution of 58 Tour Eiffel
A new chapter unfolded in the story of dining on the Eiffel Tower. The two restaurants, La Belle France and Le Parisien, were merged into a single grand brasserie. This new establishment, aptly named Altitude 95 (after its elevation of 95 meters above sea level), was designed by Slavik and Loup with a whimsical theme centered around hot air balloons.
Time marched on, and the brasserie, once known as Altitude 95, underwent another complete transformation. In 2009, it emerged with a chic new look, a new name – 58 Tour Eiffel – and a sophisticated atmosphere designed by Patrick Jouin, the mastermind behind the interior design of the famed Jules Verne restaurant.
A Culinary Symphony: Lunch and Dinner at 58 Tour Eiffel
The 58 Tour Eiffel offers a unique dining experience, catering to both daytime and evening tastes. By day, the restaurant transforms into a vibrant picnic-style lunch spot. From 11:30 AM to 4:30 PM, guests can indulge in a non-stop service featuring a delightful selection of two or three-course meals. The dishes, carefully crafted by Chef Alain Soulard (a former collaborator with renowned chef Alain Ducasse), offer a taste of classic French cuisine with a modern twist.
For a truly unforgettable dining experience, reserve a table for the evening. With two sittings at 6:30 PM and 9 PM, the 58 Tour Eiffel comes alive with a sophisticated ambiance. The restaurant’s contemporary décor, soft lighting, and minimalist furniture, designed by Patrick Jouin, create an air of luxury while allowing the breathtaking views to take center stage.
A Culinary Adventure: Menu Delights and Special Occasions
The 58 Tour Eiffel menu offers a variety of options to suit every palate. For lunch, guests can choose from tempting dishes such as Caesar salad with parmesan and caper berries, seared bonito tuna with mashed potatoes and sauce vierge, or roasted poultry risotto with cream of mushrooms. Sweet tooths can indulge in the delectable Crousti Eiffel cake with praline and chocolate. There’s even a special menu for younger diners under 12 years old.
The evening menu takes the dining experience to another level, featuring a selection of exquisite French dishes. Starters like seared tiger prawn with avocado, soya, and sesame dressing or duck foie gras with red onion marmalade, honey, and balsamic will tantalize your taste buds. For the main course, guests can savor dishes like seared salmon fillet with carrots and green peas in a white butter sauce or oven-roasted leg of lamb with Anna potatoes, artichokes, and real jus.
The restaurant also offers a special “Service Premier” option for those seeking an exclusive dining experience. This premium service, available at the 9 PM sitting, includes a tasting menu with an aperitif, starter, two main courses, dessert, mignardises, wine, mineral water, and coffee. Guests opting for the “Service Premier” can also choose to enjoy privileged seating in the main dining room or, for a little extra, secure window seating with panoramic views of the Trocadero.
A Taste of Parisian Excellence: Planning Your Visit
For an unforgettable dining experience, it’s essential to make reservations, particularly for evening dining. Bookings can be made online through the official Eiffel Tower website. Remember, even if you have a reservation for dinner, you’ll still need to purchase tickets to ascend the tower to access the restaurant.
Whether you’re enjoying a chic lunch or a romantic dinner, the 58 Tour Eiffel offers a unique opportunity to indulge in exquisite cuisine while taking in panoramic views of the City of Lights. It’s a culinary journey that captures the essence of Parisian dining at its finest, offering a perfect blend of history, elegance, and unforgettable flavors.
