The Eiffel Tower, a Parisian icon, has always been a destination for culinary delights. Back in 1889, when the tower first opened its doors, four restaurants graced its first floor. Their kitchens, nestled beneath, hummed with the activity fueled by gas lighting.
As time moved forward, the culinary scene at the Eiffel Tower underwent transformations. The 1937 International Exposition saw the demolition of the original four restaurants, leaving only two in their wake. The 1980s brought about a major renovation, leading to the birth of La Belle France and Le Parisien, two Parisian culinary gems not to be missed.
Transforming the Eiffel Tower’s Dining Scene
The dining experience at the Eiffel Tower took another turn when these two restaurants were merged into one grand brasserie. Designed by Slavik and Loup, the brasserie embraced the theme of hot air balloons, aptly named Altitude 95, a nod to its 95-meter elevation above sea level.
This iconic brasserie wasn’t done reinventing itself. In 2009, it underwent another complete renovation, emerging with a chic new look and a name that reflected its location: 58 Tour Eiffel. Patrick Jouin, renowned for his interior design work at the Jules Verne restaurant, took the helm, crafting a sleek and modern ambiance.
A Picnic in the Sky: Lunch at 58 Tour Eiffel
The 58 Tour Eiffel invites you to savor a unique dining experience. During the day, a chic picnic-style lunch unfolds. From 11:30 AM to 4:30 PM, you can indulge in a delectable two or three-course menu, served at the counter and presented in a charming basket for you to carry to your table, enhancing the picnic theme.
The lunch menu offers a range of tempting dishes, including classic Caesar salad, a flavorful parmesan and caper berry starter, seared bonito tuna with mashed potatoes and sauce vierge, or a hearty roasted poultry risotto with cream of mushrooms. Sweet tooths can delight in desserts like the Crousti Eiffel cake with praline and chocolate. There’s even a special menu for children under 12.
For this picnic-style lunch, no reservation is needed, and prices start at €19 per person. However, remember to purchase an Eiffel Tower ticket to access the restaurant.
Evening Elegance: Dinner at 58 Tour Eiffel
As the sun sets, the 58 Tour Eiffel transforms into a haven of elegance. With two dinner seatings at 6:30 PM and 9 PM, this restaurant offers an unforgettable culinary journey high above the City of Lights. Reservations are essential for this magical experience.
The evening ambiance is one of refined sophistication. Patrick Jouin‘s contemporary décor, soft lighting, and minimalist furniture create an atmosphere of luxury without detracting from the breathtaking panoramic views.
The dinner menu features a selection of exquisite French cuisine, ranging from seared tiger prawn with avocado, soya, and sesame dressing or duck foie gras with red onions marmalade, honey, and balsamic for starters to seared salmon fillet with carrots and green peas in white butter sauce or oven-roasted leg of lamb with Anna potatoes, artichokes, and real jus for main courses.
Special Occasion Dining at 58 Tour Eiffel
For special occasions, the 58 Tour Eiffel offers various menu options to make your celebration truly memorable. The Opera menu, starting at €70 per person, includes a starter, main course, dessert, and a glass of champagne. For an extra touch of luxury, consider the Service Premier at the 9 PM seating. This exclusive experience offers privileged seating in the main dining room, with the option of window seating overlooking the Trocadero. The Service Premier includes a tasting menu featuring an aperitif, starter, two main courses, dessert, mignardises, wine, mineral water, and coffee. As of 2012, this experience costs €135 per person, or €155 per person for window seating.
Children under 12 can also enjoy a special menu at a reduced price, starting from €19. The Service Premier even includes a chocolate Eiffel Tower cake for kids to enjoy.
Remember that tickets to ascend the Eiffel Tower are required to access the 58 Tour Eiffel restaurant, even for booked evening meals. Reservations can be made online through the official Eiffel Tower website.
Whether you’re enjoying a casual picnic lunch or celebrating a special occasion, the 58 Tour Eiffel offers a unique and unforgettable dining experience high above the City of Lights, showcasing the best of French cuisine with breathtaking views.
