The Eiffel Tower has always been a symbol of Paris and its iconic design has captivated people for over a century. But did you know that the tower has also been a hub for culinary delights? Let’s take a trip through time to discover the evolution of dining experiences at the 58 Tour Eiffel.
From Four Restaurants to a Chic Brasserie
When the Eiffel Tower first opened its doors in 1889, four restaurants graced its first floor. Imagine that! The kitchens, powered by gas lighting, hummed with activity beneath these restaurants. This sounds pretty charming, doesn’t it?
Fast forward to 1937. For the international exposition, the four restaurants were demolished and replaced with two. Then, in the 1980s, during a major renovation, these two restaurants were reborn as “La Belle France” and “Le Parisien,” becoming must-visit destinations in Paris.
But the changes didn’t stop there. The two restaurants were merged into one grand brasserie in the 1990s. Designed by Slavik and Loup, the brasserie embraced a hot air balloon theme and was aptly named Altitude 95, reflecting its location 95 meters above sea level.
A New Era of Elegance: The 58 Tour Eiffel
The 58 Tour Eiffel, as it is known today, was completely renovated in 2009. It received a chic makeover with a new name and a fresh design by Patrick Jouin, the renowned interior designer behind the Jules Verne restaurant. The restaurant now boasts a modern, elegant aesthetic.
Alain Soulard, a chef with extensive experience working with Alain Ducasse, oversees the culinary direction. He creates top-quality French cuisine, catering to both lunch and dinner guests. The focus is on showcasing the best French flavors, with menus that change regularly to reflect seasonal ingredients.
A Picnic in the Sky: Chic Lunches at 58 Tour Eiffel
For a unique Parisian lunch experience, head to the 58 Tour Eiffel during the day. Enjoy a chic picnic-style lunch, served at the counter in a basket, which you can then carry to your table. The non-stop service runs from 11:30 am to 4:30 pm, with last orders for main courses at 3:45 pm. The menu features a variety of dishes, including classics like Caesar salad and seared bonito tuna, as well as creative options like roasted poultry risotto and cream of mushrooms. There’s also a dedicated children’s menu for younger diners.
An Evening of Indulgence: Dinner at 58 Tour Eiffel
As the sun sets, the 58 Tour Eiffel transforms into a magical dinner venue. The contemporary decor, soft lighting, and minimalist furniture, all designed by Patrick Jouin, create an atmosphere of understated luxury.
Two dinner seatings are available, at 6:30 pm and 9 pm, but reservations are essential. Guests are greeted by a hostess and guided to their tables to enjoy a spectacular view of the city lights. The evening menu features an array of exquisite French dishes, from succulent seared tiger prawn to delectable duck foie gras, each dish prepared with the utmost care and attention to detail.
A Taste of Luxury: Service Premier at 58 Tour Eiffel
For a truly memorable occasion, consider the Service Premier, available at the 9 pm sitting. It offers a privileged seating experience in the main dining room and includes a tasting menu with an aperitif, starter, two main courses, dessert, mignardises, wine, mineral water, and coffee. For an even more special experience, you can book a table with a window view of the Trocadero. The cost of the Service Premier is €135 per person, or €155 per person with window seating.
Planning Your Visit to the 58 Tour Eiffel
To access the 58 Tour Eiffel, you will need to purchase tickets to ascend the Eiffel Tower. Reservations can be made online through the official Eiffel Tower website.
The 58 Tour Eiffel offers a unique dining experience for every taste. Whether you’re looking for a casual picnic lunch or an elegant evening meal, the restaurant is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Paris. With its stunning views, impeccable service, and delicious cuisine, the 58 Tour Eiffel is a truly unforgettable dining destination.