The Eiffel Tower has been a symbol of Paris since its inauguration in 1889. But did you know that the tower’s culinary scene has evolved just as dramatically as the city itself? From humble beginnings with four restaurants on the first floor, the Eiffel Tower’s dining experience has undergone several transformations.
In the beginning, these restaurants featured kitchens located below, powered by gas lighting. But the world changed, and so did the Eiffel Tower. For the 1937 international exhibition, the four original restaurants were demolished, replaced by only two. By the 1980s, the tower underwent major renovations, and these two were redone once again, becoming La Belle France and Le Parisien, esteemed Parisian eateries.
The Rise of Altitude 95 and 58 Tour Eiffel
The Eiffel Tower’s dining scene continued to evolve. The two restaurants were merged into one grand brasserie, called Altitude 95. Designed by Slavik and Loup with a hot air balloon theme, the name reflected the restaurant’s location, 95 meters above sea level.
But the story didn’t end there. Another renovation in 2009 saw this brasserie reborn once again, with a chic redesign by Patrick Jouin, who also oversaw the interior design of the Jules Verne restaurant. This new look was accompanied by a new name: 58 Tour Eiffel.
The Eiffel Tower’s Picnic Style Lunch
The 58 Tour Eiffel offers a unique dining experience during the day, with a chic, picnic-style lunch. Served from 11:30 am to 4:30 pm, this non-stop service invites you to select your meal from the counter and carry it to your table in a basket, adding to the picnic ambiance.
The menu features two-course options, including a starter and main course or a main course and dessert, or a three-course option. You can choose from delights like Caesar salad, seared bonito tuna, or roasted poultry risotto. And for those with little ones, there’s a special children’s menu.
The picnic lunch is a relaxed and casual affair, perfect for a light meal while enjoying the panoramic views. There’s no need to book a table, and prices start at €19 per person, but you will need a ticket to access the Eiffel Tower. If you don’t want to go up to the restaurant level, there are also buffets available for sandwiches and snacks throughout the tower.
Dinner with a View at 58 Tour Eiffel
The 58 Tour Eiffel completely transforms in the evening, becoming an elegant dining destination. The ambiance changes with contemporary decor, soft lighting, and minimalist furniture, all designed by Patrick Jouin. The aim is to create a luxurious atmosphere that highlights the breathtaking views.
The evening menu at 58 Tour Eiffel is a different experience from the picnic lunch. You’ll enjoy classic French cuisine served at your table, with two seating times, either 6:30 pm or 9 pm. Reservations are a must for dinner.
The evening menu boasts an array of dishes, ranging from starters like seared tiger prawn or duck foie gras to main courses like seared salmon fillet or oven-roasted leg of lamb. There are also a variety of dessert options.
The 58 Tour Eiffel’s Signature Dining Experience
For a truly special occasion, consider the Service Premier, available at the 9 pm seating. This service features privileged seating in the main dining room and offers a tasting menu that includes an aperitif, starter, two main courses, dessert, mignardises, wine, mineral water, and coffee. The Service Premier comes with a cost of €135 per person or €155 per person for a window seat with views of the Trocadero.
The Eiffel Tower’s 58 Tour Eiffel offers a unique dining experience, from casual picnic lunches to elegant evening meals. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a special occasion celebration, the 58 Tour Eiffel provides a stunning setting to enjoy delicious French cuisine and breathtaking views of the City of Lights.
