The Eiffel Tower, a symbol of Parisian romance and grandeur, has always been a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. But beyond its architectural brilliance, the tower also boasts a rich culinary history. Over the years, the restaurants within its structure have undergone numerous transformations, reflecting evolving tastes and trends. Let’s take a journey through time and discover the fascinating story of dining at the Eiffel Tower, specifically at the 58 Tour Eiffel.
From Gaslights to Chic Picnics: A Culinary Timeline
Back in 1889, when the Eiffel Tower first opened its doors, four restaurants graced its first floor, their kitchens humming with activity powered by gas lighting. This bustling culinary scene, however, underwent a significant change for the 1937 international exposition, as the original restaurants were demolished and replaced with just two. Further transformations followed in the 1980s with the tower’s major renovations, leading to the creation of La Belle France and Le Parisien—restaurants renowned for their exceptional Parisian cuisine.
However, these two restaurants soon merged into a single, grand brasserie known as Altitude 95, designed by Slavik and Loup, with a theme centered around whimsical hot air balloons. This name aptly reflected its location, soaring 95 meters above sea level.
A Modern Masterpiece: 58 Tour Eiffel
The Eiffel Tower’s culinary journey continued, culminating in the creation of the 58 Tour Eiffel, a chic brasserie that opened its doors in 2009. This stylish establishment was born from a complete renovation, overseen by the renowned designer Patrick Jouin, who also crafted the interior of the esteemed Jules Verne restaurant.
The 58 Tour Eiffel is not just a restaurant, it’s a captivating culinary experience. It offers two distinct dining experiences: a casual picnic-style lunch and a sophisticated evening affair.
A Lunch with a View: Picnic-Style Delights
During the day, the 58 Tour Eiffel transforms into a chic picnic spot, offering a non-stop service for lunch from 11:30 am to 4:30 pm. Imagine enjoying a leisurely meal, bathed in natural light, with the breathtaking Parisian skyline as your backdrop.
The menu is designed by Chef Alain Soulard, a culinary maestro who honed his skills alongside the renowned Alain Ducasse at the Jules Verne and other acclaimed restaurants. His dedication to quality shines through in the picnic-style lunches, served in charming baskets, allowing you to carry your meal to your table.
The menu offers a variety of delectable options, such as Caesar salad, seared bonito tuna, and roasted poultry risotto, followed by delightful desserts like the Crousti Eiffel cake. For young diners, a dedicated children’s menu ensures everyone enjoys their meal.
Evening Elegance: A Dinner High Above the City
As the sun sets, the 58 Tour Eiffel takes on a whole new persona, transforming into an intimate and elegant dining destination. With two seatings at 6:30 pm and 9:00 pm, guests can savor a memorable evening experience.
Reservations are essential for this enchanting evening experience. The restaurant’s ambiance is captivating, with contemporary décor, soft lighting, and minimalist furniture designed by Patrick Jouin, creating a sophisticated atmosphere that accentuates the panoramic views.
Culinary Excellence: French Delights at Their Best
The evening menu at the 58 Tour Eiffel showcases the finest French cuisine, with dishes that tantalize the palate and delight the senses. Imagine savoring seared tiger prawn, duck foie gras, or seared salmon fillet, while gazing out at the twinkling lights of Paris.
For special occasions, the Service Premier offers an exclusive and indulgent dining experience. This premium offering, available at the 9:00 pm seating, grants access to privileged seating in the main dining room and the option of a window seat overlooking the Trocadero.
The Service Premier includes a refined tasting menu, featuring an aperitif, starter, two main courses, dessert, mignardises, wine, mineral water, and coffee.
Accessing the 58 Tour Eiffel: A Glimpse of Parisian Culinary Heaven
While a visit to the 58 Tour Eiffel is an unforgettable experience, remember that you’ll need to purchase a ticket to ascend the Eiffel Tower to gain access to the restaurant, even for evening reservations.
Reservations can be made conveniently online through the official Eiffel Tower website.
The 58 Tour Eiffel is more than just a restaurant; it’s a captivating culinary journey at the heart of Paris. It’s a place to indulge in exquisite French cuisine, enjoy breathtaking views, and create unforgettable memories.
