The Eiffel Tower, a Parisian icon, boasts a rich history that extends beyond its architectural grandeur. Its restaurants, too, have evolved over time, reflecting the city’s changing culinary scene. When the tower first opened its doors in 1889, four restaurants graced its first floor, their kitchens humming with gas-powered stoves. These restaurants were demolished during the 1937 International Exposition, only to be replaced by two. As the Eiffel Tower underwent renovations in the 1980s, these restaurants were reborn as La Belle France and Le Parisien, quickly becoming must-visit destinations in the City of Lights.
From Hot Air Balloons to Chic Picnics
However, the culinary landscape of the Eiffel Tower took another dramatic turn. In the 1990s, the two restaurants merged into a single brasserie, aptly named Altitude 95, after its 95-meter elevation. The brasserie, designed by Slavik and Loup, celebrated the spirit of hot air ballooning. The Eiffel Tower’s restaurant scene continued to evolve, and in 2009, the brasserie underwent a complete transformation, re-emerging as 58 Tour Eiffel. The new name reflected its location on the tower’s 58th level. Patrick Jouin, renowned for his work on the Jules Verne restaurant, oversaw the design, creating a chic and modern ambiance.
Dining at 58 Tour Eiffel: A Taste of Paris
Under the guidance of Chef Alain Soulard, formerly of Alain Ducasse’s Jules Verne, 58 Tour Eiffel offers a refined take on French cuisine. Whether you’re seeking a casual lunch or an elegant dinner, 58 Tour Eiffel has something for everyone.
During the day, the restaurant embraces the picnic style, with a non-stop service for lunches from 11:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Diners can enjoy a two or three-course menu, featuring tantalizing options like Caesar salad, seared bonito tuna, and roasted poultry risotto. Desserts, like the Crousti Eiffel cake, add a sweet ending to the experience. For children under 12, there’s a dedicated menu with kid-friendly favorites.
The picnic-style lunch is a delightful option for those looking for a relaxed and casual meal. The baskets filled with delicious dishes provide a unique touch, transporting diners to a Parisian picnic.
Elevated Dining: An Evening at 58 Tour Eiffel
As the sun sets, 58 Tour Eiffel transforms into a sophisticated dining destination. The evening ambiance is characterized by contemporary décor, soft lighting, and minimalist furniture, all carefully curated by Patrick Jouin to create a sense of luxury while showcasing the panoramic views. There are two dinner seatings: 6:30 PM and 9 PM. Reservations are essential, as the allure of dining high above the city draws many visitors.
The evening menu offers a selection of exquisite French dishes that showcase the chef’s culinary prowess. Starters like seared tiger prawns, avocado, and duck foie gras tempt the palate. Mains, like seared salmon fillet and oven-roasted leg of lamb, are prepared with meticulous care.
Special Occasions and Personalized Service
For those celebrating a special occasion, 58 Tour Eiffel offers a range of dining options, catering to various tastes and budgets. The Opera Menu, starting at €70 per person, includes a starter, main course, dessert, and a glass of champagne. For a truly unforgettable experience, the Service Premier, available at the 9 PM seating, grants privileged access to the main dining room and includes a tasting menu with aperitifs, two main courses, and wine pairings.
For families with young children, 58 Tour Eiffel offers a children’s menu, which includes a chocolate Eiffel Tower cake. This ensures that even the youngest diners can enjoy a memorable meal at this iconic Parisian restaurant.
Plan Your Visit
To access 58 Tour Eiffel, a ticket to the Eiffel Tower is required. Reservations for evening meals can be made online through the official Eiffel Tower website.
Whether you’re seeking a casual lunch or an elegant dinner, 58 Tour Eiffel offers a unique and unforgettable dining experience. The restaurant’s chic ambiance, delicious cuisine, and stunning views of the city make it an essential stop for any visitor to Paris.
