Le Jules Verne, perched gracefully on the second floor of the Eiffel Tower, is a restaurant that demands your attention. This culinary gem, headed by renowned chef Frédéric Anton, offers a fine dining experience unlike any other. You won’t find a restaurant closer to the iconic tower, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best in the area. We recently had the pleasure of dining there anonymously, and we’re ready to share our insights.
Reaching New Heights: A Parisian Panorama
Imagine this: you step out of a private lift and find yourself 125 meters above the ground, in a room with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a panoramic view of the City of Lights. This is the enchanting experience that awaits you at Le Jules Verne. The Seine River stretches before you, while the Eiffel Tower’s intricate iron structure provides a captivating frame for landmarks like Quai Branly, Trocadéro, Invalides, the Panthéon, La Défense, and Montmartre.
If you’re a fan of engineering, you’ll want to request a seat at the counter or in the alcove. These coveted spots provide an unparalleled view of the inner workings of the Eiffel Tower, a glimpse into the marvel that holds this restaurant aloft.
Michelin’s Praise: A Culinary Masterpiece
Michelin, the world-renowned restaurant guide, bestows high praise on Le Jules Verne. The guide describes a magical atmosphere created by the breathtaking location and the exquisite cuisine that soars alongside it. Chef Anton, with his team, meticulously crafts each dish, elevating top-quality ingredients to new heights. The result is a delicate symphony of flavors that tantalizes the palate.
Michelin highlights dishes like the sublime soufflé of scallops with a Dieppoise sauce and Oscietra caviar. The caramelized calf sweetbread, prepared in the Grenobloise style, is another masterpiece, showcasing the chef’s precision and restraint. And, of course, no meal is complete without dessert. Germain Decreton’s creations are equally impressive, perfectly complementing the culinary journey.
Le Jules Verne: A Culinary Adventure
To truly savor the beauty of Paris from this restaurant, Michelin recommends requesting a table near the windows. The spectacular view through the Eiffel Tower’s ironwork is a sight to behold. The service is impeccable, reflecting the dedication and passion of the entire team.
A Culinary Challenge: Mastering the Constraints
France Today acknowledges the unique challenges of running a restaurant inside the Eiffel Tower. The absence of gas mandates that much of the cooking takes place in an underground kitchen at the base of the tower. The kitchen within the restaurant serves primarily as a garnishing and serving station.
Despite these constraints, Le Jules Verne’s chef and his team are constantly striving to elevate the dining experience. France Today recognizes the recent changes and expects the restaurant to reach even greater heights, mirroring the success of Le Pré Catelan.
A Symphony of Flavors: A Culinary Journey
The Financial Times reviewed the menu, highlighting the ingenuity and artistry of Chef Anton’s creations. The “vol-au-vent slowly stewed garnish”, a playful twist on a French classic, is a testament to the chef’s culinary vision. The puff pastry is discarded, giving way to a delectable filling of sweetbreads, crayfish, succulent chicken “oysters,” and a perfectly soft-boiled egg. The dish is crowned with lightly cooked green asparagus spears and a shower of raw asparagus shavings, a symphony of textures and flavors.
Conclusion: A Parisian Gem
Le Jules Verne is a truly unique dining experience that combines breathtaking views, exquisite cuisine, and impeccable service. Whether you’re a seasoned gourmand or simply looking for a memorable Parisian adventure, this restaurant is a must-visit. Its location, its food, and its overall ambiance are a celebration of the city’s elegance and sophistication.
