The Eiffel Tower, a symbol of Paris, has always been a culinary destination. Since its inauguration in 1889, the first floor housed four restaurants, their kitchens fueled by gaslight. Over the years, the restaurant landscape evolved, showcasing different culinary styles and themes.
A History of Gastronomic Transformations
The initial four restaurants were replaced with two during the 1937 International Exposition. In the 1980s, the tower underwent extensive renovations, and the restaurants were reimagined as La Belle France and Le Parisien. These establishments were must-visits for any Parisian food enthusiast.
The two restaurants merged to become one expansive brasserie in the 1990s. Designed by Slavik and Loup, the brasserie, aptly named Altitude 95 due to its location 95 meters above sea level, embraced the theme of hot air balloons.
The restaurant continued to transform, undergoing a complete renovation in 2009 and adopting the chic name 58 Tour Eiffel. This reimagining was guided by designer Patrick Jouin, who also created the interiors for the Jules Verne restaurant.
Dining at 58 Tour Eiffel: A Daytime Picnic and Evening Elegance
The 58 Tour Eiffel presents a distinct culinary experience for both daytime and evening diners. During the day, chic picnic-style lunches are served non-stop from 11:30 am to 4:30 pm. Orders for main courses are accepted until 3:45 pm.
The picnic theme is seamlessly carried out, with lunches served in baskets at the counter, ready to be carried to your table. Chef Alain Soulard, who has collaborated with renowned chef Alain Ducasse, creates the delicious menu, specializing in high-quality French cuisine.
The atmosphere transforms at night, with two seating options: 6:30 pm or 9 pm. Reservations are essential to enjoy the evening ambiance. The 58 Tour Eiffel embraces contemporary decor, featuring soft lighting and minimalist furniture, all designed by Patrick Jouin. This elegance complements the breathtaking views, creating a luxurious dining experience.
A Variety of Culinary Delights
The picnic-style lunch menu features two-course (starter and main course, or main course and dessert) or three-course options, all served at the counter. Choose from tempting dishes like Caesar salad, seared bonito tuna, roasted poultry risotto, and mouthwatering desserts such as the Crousti Eiffel cake. A dedicated children’s menu caters to those under 12 years old.
Evening menus boast sophisticated French cuisine, with starters like seared tiger prawn and duck foie gras, and main courses like seared salmon fillet and oven-roasted leg of lamb. The pricing for evening menus starts at €70 per person for a three-course meal with a glass of champagne.
For those seeking a special occasion, the Service Premier offers a privileged dining experience. Offered at the 9 pm seating, it includes a tasting menu with an aperitif, starter, two main courses, dessert, mignardises, wine, mineral water, and coffee. The cost for this exclusive experience is €135 per person or €155 per person with window seating. Children’s menus are also available for the Service Premier, including a chocolate Eiffel Tower cake.
Don’t Miss the View
Reservations for the 58 Tour Eiffel can be made online through the official Eiffel Tower website. Don’t forget that you will still need to purchase a ticket to ascend the Eiffel Tower to access the restaurant, even for an evening meal. Enjoy a memorable dining experience at this iconic Parisian landmark.
