Welcome to our journey through the vibrant Parisian culinary scene! For over a decade, we’ve been on a quest to find the most authentic and delightful restaurants in the City of Lights. Our mission? To unearth hidden gems that offer delicious food and exceptional wines, all while embracing the true Parisian “neighbourhood” spirit.
Forget the tourist traps! We’re not interested in the usual suspects that grace the pages of international magazines. Instead, we’re on a mission to discover the local treasures that often get overlooked. You won’t find Michelin stars or fancy interiors here, just honest-to-goodness food and wine that warms your soul.
Our passion lies in the “off-the-beaten-track” parts of Paris. We seek out restaurants that are cherished by locals, where the focus is on quality ingredients and a relaxed atmosphere. While we appreciate the “natural wine” movement, it’s not the sole focus of our project. We believe that good food and wine should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their preference for natural wines.
Navigating the Parisian Gastronomic Landscape
With over 26,000 restaurants in Paris, choosing where to eat can feel overwhelming. While the press often recommends popular spots, these are usually frequented by tourists and may not truly represent the diversity of Parisian cuisine. We’re committed to uncovering the gems that are often overlooked, offering an alternative perspective on the city’s culinary landscape.
We’ve explored over 50 restaurants in our quest for “neighbourhood” gems. We’ve tasted a wide variety of wines, from natural to organic, and our focus remains on the overall dining experience. We believe that a good restaurant should be more than just good food – it should offer a welcoming atmosphere, a chance to connect with friends, and a true taste of Parisian life.
Our Top Picks: A Taste of Parisian Charm
Ready to embark on your own culinary adventure? Here are some of our favorite Parisian “neighbourhood” restaurants:
- Bistrotters: This charming bistro captures the essence of a true Parisian neighbourhood eatery.
- Willi’s Wine Bar: A classic and beloved institution with an outstanding wine list and exceptional food.
- Macéo: This restaurant offers a serene atmosphere and an impressive wine selection.
- Tadam: Charming and simple, Tadam serves delicious food in a relaxed setting.
- Chez Nathalie: This restaurant offers delightful outdoor seating for warm summer evenings.
- Simone: Enjoy excellent food and a lovely terrace at Simone.
- Le Nom m’Echappe: A well-respected restaurant serving quality food, despite its location in a slightly “posh” area.
- Mamagoto: This intimate restaurant offers Asian-inspired dishes and an impressive wine list.
A Closer Look at Our Favorites:
Bistrotters: A delightful neighbourhood restaurant tucked away near Gare Montparnasse.
Willi’s Wine Bar: A long-standing favorite run by Mark Williamson. While not solely focused on natural wine, it boasts a superb wine list and excellent cuisine.
Macéo: A small and cozy restaurant located near Salpetrière and Rue Monge.
Tadam: This restaurant previously housed La Régalade, a renowned “bistronomy” pioneer. Now under new ownership, it maintains its classic French charm and excellent wine list.
Chez Nathalie: Another “neighbourhood” gem, nestled near La Butte aux Cailles.
Simone: A charming bistro situated in the Les Peupliers neighbourhood.
Le Nom m’Echappe: Sister restaurant to Willi’s Wine Bar, this establishment offers elegant ambiance and exceptional value for money.
Mamagoto: A small, ambitious restaurant known for its exceptional tasting menu and a wonderful outdoor seating area.
Exploring the Hidden Corners of Paris:
Venturing beyond the tourist zones can be truly rewarding. We’ve discovered some of our favorite restaurants in the lesser-known neighbourhoods, like Paris 18 and the surrounding arrondissements, which are prime hunting grounds for natural wine bars and restaurants.
From classic Parisian bistros to modern, inventive eateries, we’ve encountered a vibrant tapestry of flavors and styles. Our quest continues to discover the hidden gems that make Paris a truly exceptional culinary destination.
