Imagine yourself dining high above the City of Lights, with panoramic views of Paris stretching out before you. This is the experience that awaits you at the 58 Tour Eiffel, a chic brasserie nestled on the first floor of the iconic monument.
A History of Transformation
The restaurant’s story is as fascinating as the tower itself. When the Eiffel Tower first opened its doors in 1889, four restaurants graced its first floor, each with kitchens powered by gas lighting. Over the years, the dining scene evolved. The 1937 international exposition saw the four restaurants replaced with two. In the 1980s, these were refurbished, and the Eiffel Tower underwent extensive renovations, culminating in the creation of two new restaurants: La Belle France and Le Parisien. These establishments quickly gained notoriety as must-visit spots in Paris.
But the story doesn’t end there. The two restaurants were merged into a single, grand brasserie called Altitude 95, aptly named for its location 95 meters above sea level. Designed by Slavik and Loup, the brasserie embraced a whimsical hot air balloon theme.
The restaurant continued to evolve. In 2009, it underwent a complete makeover, emerging with a new, sophisticated style and a fresh name: 58 Tour Eiffel. The redesign was masterminded by Patrick Jouin, who also oversaw the interior design of the acclaimed Jules Verne restaurant.
A Picnic in the Sky: Lunch at 58 Tour Eiffel
For lunch, 58 Tour Eiffel offers a unique “chic picnic” experience. From 11:30am to 4:30pm, guests can enjoy a continuous service featuring two- or three-course menus. The last orders for main courses are taken at 3:45pm. Food is presented in charming baskets, adding to the picnic theme.
The menu features enticing dishes crafted by Chef Alain Soulard, who honed his skills working with renowned chef Alain Ducasse at the Jules Verne and other esteemed establishments. Soulard specializes in creating high-quality French cuisine, with options to satisfy a variety of palates, including a dedicated children’s menu for those under 12.
Lunchtime at 58 Tour Eiffel is a casual affair, perfect for a light and delightful meal with stunning views. Reservations are not required, but remember that a valid Eiffel Tower ticket is necessary for access. If you’d prefer something more informal, a variety of buffets serving sandwiches and snacks are available throughout the tower.
An Evening of Elegance: Dinner at 58 Tour Eiffel
As the sun sets, 58 Tour Eiffel transforms into a sophisticated dining destination. The evening atmosphere is characterized by contemporary décor, soft lighting, and minimalist furniture designed by Patrick Jouin. The ambiance evokes a sense of luxury while showcasing the breathtaking city views.
Dinner service commences at two distinct seatings, 6:30pm and 9pm, and reservations are essential.
The evening menu features a selection of refined French cuisine, served tableside. You might be tempted by starters like seared tiger prawn with avocado, soya and sesame dressing, or duck foie gras with red onion marmalade, honey and balsamic. Main courses could include seared salmon fillet, carrots, and green peas with white butter sauce, or oven-roasted leg of lamb with Anna potatoes, artichokes, and real jus.
Special Occasions and The Service Premier
For special occasions, such as a wedding anniversary or family holiday, 58 Tour Eiffel offers a range of options to make your experience even more memorable.
The Service Premier, available at the 9pm seating, provides privileged seating in the main dining room. For an extra touch, you can request window seating with stunning views of the Trocadero. This exclusive service includes a tasting menu with an aperitif, starter, two main courses, dessert, mignardises (bite-size desserts), wine, mineral water, and coffee. As of 2012, the cost is €135 per person, or €155 per person with window seating.
There are also children’s menus available at a reduced cost, starting from €19. The Service Premier even includes a children’s menu featuring a chocolate Eiffel Tower cake, ensuring that even the youngest diners can enjoy the experience to the fullest.
Booking and Accessibility
Whether you’re indulging in a picnic-style lunch or a sophisticated dinner, remember that you must purchase tickets to ascend the Eiffel Tower in order to access 58 Tour Eiffel. Bookings for both lunch and dinner can be made online through the official Eiffel Tower website.
