Imagine dining 95 meters above the bustling city of Paris, with panoramic views stretching as far as the eye can see. This unique experience is offered at the 58 Tour Eiffel, a restaurant perched atop one of the world’s most iconic landmarks – the Eiffel Tower. But the journey of this restaurant is as captivating as the views it offers. It’s a story that spans over a century, marked by transformations and reinventions that have mirrored the changing culinary landscape of Paris.
When the Eiffel Tower first graced the Parisian skyline in 1889, its first floor housed a quartet of restaurants, their kitchens fueled by gas lighting. This was a time when Paris was discovering the delights of modern culinary techniques, and these restaurants mirrored the city’s evolving palate.
From Humble Beginnings to a Chic Brasserie
The 1937 International Exposition brought significant changes to the Eiffel Tower’s dining scene. The four restaurants were demolished, making way for just two. These restaurants, La Belle France and Le Parisien, quickly gained a reputation as must-visit Parisian establishments. The 1980s saw another renovation, breathing new life into these culinary havens.
Time, however, continued to reshape the Eiffel Tower’s restaurant landscape. In the early 2000s, the two restaurants merged into a single, sprawling brasserie called Altitude 95, named for its altitude. Designed by the talented architects Slavik and Loup, this brasserie embraced the theme of hot air balloons, adding a whimsical touch to the experience.
58 Tour Eiffel: A Modern Parisian Gem
The year 2009 marked another significant chapter in the restaurant’s story. A complete renovation breathed new life into the brasserie, giving it a chic, modern aesthetic and a new name: 58 Tour Eiffel. Patrick Jouin, the architect behind the interior design of the acclaimed Jules Verne restaurant, masterminded this transformation. The 58 Tour Eiffel now boasts a sophisticated ambiance, with a focus on showcasing the breathtaking views.
At the heart of 58 Tour Eiffel lies the culinary artistry of Chef Alain Soulard. Having honed his skills under the renowned Alain Ducasse, Soulard brings a wealth of experience to the restaurant’s kitchen. He specializes in crafting exquisite French cuisine that tantalizes the taste buds and captivates the senses.
A Feast for Every Palate
58 Tour Eiffel caters to a diverse range of dining preferences. During the day, the restaurant transforms into a Parisian picnic paradise, serving chic picnic-style lunches from 11:30 AM to 4:30 PM. Imagine indulging in a delicious meal, served in a charming basket, while enjoying the unparalleled views of the city.
The lunch menu offers a tempting array of options, including two-course and three-course meals. From the Caesar salad with Parmesan and caper berries to the seared bonito tuna with mashed potatoes and sauce vierge, each dish is a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients and French culinary traditions. There is also a dedicated menu for little gourmands under the age of 12.
Elevated Dining Experiences
As the sun begins to set, the 58 Tour Eiffel transforms into a glamorous evening destination. Two seating times, 6:30 PM and 9 PM, offer an intimate and unforgettable dining experience. The restaurant’s contemporary décor, soft lighting, and minimalistic furniture, designed by Patrick Jouin, create an atmosphere of luxurious tranquility.
The evening menu is a testament to Chef Soulard’s culinary expertise. Diners can indulge in delicacies like seared tiger prawn with avocado, soya, and sesame dressing, or duck foie gras with red onion marmalade, honey, and balsamic. Main course options might include seared salmon fillet with carrots and green peas in a white butter sauce, or oven-roasted leg of lamb with Anna potatoes, artichokes, and real jus. The restaurant also offers a variety of à la carte options, allowing diners to personalize their culinary journey.
A Culinary Masterpiece
58 Tour Eiffel is more than just a restaurant; it’s an iconic Parisian landmark that has evolved alongside the city’s culinary landscape. From its humble beginnings as four gas-lit restaurants to its current incarnation as a sophisticated brasserie, this restaurant has consistently offered a unique and memorable dining experience. Whether you’re seeking a delightful picnic lunch or a romantic evening meal, 58 Tour Eiffel promises a journey of flavors that will linger long after the last bite.
