The Eiffel Tower, a Parisian icon, draws millions each year with its breathtaking views and captivating history. However, beyond its grandeur, lies a world of culinary experiences that cater to every taste and budget. Let’s embark on a gastronomic journey through the Eiffel Tower’s restaurants, uncovering its rich history and the diverse dining options it offers today.
A Culinary Timeline: From Wooden Pavilions to Chic Brasseries
The Eiffel Tower’s culinary journey began in 1889 with four wooden pavilions adorning the first floor. These structures, designed by Stephen Sauvestre, each accommodated 500 diners, their kitchens glowing with gaslight beneath the Parisian sky.
Over the years, the Eiffel Tower’s dining scene evolved. The Flamand pavilion transformed into a theater, then briefly a Dutch restaurant for the 1900 exhibition. The Brebant, renowned for its elegant French cuisine, stood proudly alongside a Russian restaurant and an English-American bar.
The 1937 international exhibition brought about a significant change, with the original four restaurants demolished and replaced with two new establishments. The Russian restaurant’s space was repurposed, while the Dutch restaurant and theater gave way to another dining experience.
A major overhaul in the 1980s ushered in a new era of dining, with the introduction of La Belle France and Le Parisien restaurants. The iconic Jules Verne restaurant, gracing the second floor, was also born during this period.
La Belle France and Le Parisien later merged into a single brasserie, Altitude 95, named for its height above sea level. In 2007, the Jules Verne underwent a complete renovation, followed by the Altitude 95’s transformation into the 58 Tour Eiffel in 2008, both designed by Patrick Jouin. These chic venues offer unparalleled views and culinary excellence.
A Feast for Every Palate: From Casual Bites to Gourmet Experiences
For families seeking convenient and affordable options, the Eiffel Tower offers buffets on the ground floor and the first and second floors. These buffets feature a diverse array of sandwiches, snacks, hot food, pastries, and beverages, open daily from 9:30 am to 11:30 pm.
The 58 Tour Eiffel, a chic brasserie on the first floor, presents a picnic-style lunch experience, with two-course or three-course options available from 11:30 am to 4:30 pm. As evening descends, the 58 Tour Eiffel transforms into an upscale restaurant, requiring reservations and offering two seating times at 6:30 pm and 9 pm, with prices starting from €70 per person.
For those seeking the pinnacle of Parisian dining, the Jules Verne on the second floor offers a truly unforgettable experience. With valet service and a private elevator, it is the epitome of luxury dining. Reservations are a necessity, often made months in advance, with prices ranging from €88 to €210 per person, excluding beverages. The Jules Verne offers a set menu, featuring different options for lunch and dinner, as well as an à la carte menu.
Even if your budget doesn’t allow for a lavish meal at the Jules Verne, don’t despair. On the top floor, nestled within the Eiffel Tower’s structure, you can enjoy a glass of champagne and soak in panoramic Parisian views, creating a lasting memory without breaking the bank.
The Eiffel Tower’s culinary offerings extend beyond its permanent restaurants. During the festive season, temporary bars like the open-air bar at the ice skating rink offer seasonal treats, such as mulled wine, hot chocolate, pretzels, and apple strudel.
A Culinary Destination for All
From casual buffets to sophisticated brasseries and Michelin-starred restaurants, the Eiffel Tower offers a diverse array of dining experiences. Whether you’re on a family holiday, a romantic getaway, or simply seeking breathtaking views with a touch of Parisian flair, there’s a culinary experience waiting to be discovered. The Eiffel Tower, a testament to Parisian ingenuity and architectural splendor, stands as a culinary haven where history and modernity intertwine, creating a memorable dining experience that will leave you with a taste of Paris that lingers long after your visit.
