Imagine this: You’re in Paris, surrounded by the romance of the City of Lights, and you have a table reserved at the iconic Eiffel Tower. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, my husband and I decided to make that dream a reality and booked a table at the 58 Tour Eiffel restaurant.
Let’s set the scene: We strolled past the long queues for the Eiffel Tower’s lifts, feeling a bit smug as we joined the shorter line reserved for restaurant guests. Our hearts were set on an evening filled with French wine, delicious food, and a touch of Parisian romance. But, deep down, a part of us wondered if we were in for a tourist trap – bad food, cheap wine, and hordes of tourists surrounding us.
A Glimpse of Parisian Charm
As we entered the restaurant’s exclusive elevator, the excitement was palpable. Everyone was eager for a first glimpse of Paris from the tower, and there was a sense of anticipation (and perhaps a touch of impatience) in the air. The grand double doors opened with a flourish at precisely 6:30 PM, and we were seated within minutes, surrounded by the elegant ambiance of the restaurant. Thankfully, tour groups were allocated their own area, allowing for a more intimate setting for couples and small groups.
An Unexpected Culinary Delight
58 Tour Eiffel offers three pre-booked dinner options, with prices ranging from $118 to $165, depending on your chosen table and whether wine is included. We were lucky enough to secure a mid-priced table with a “privileged seating in the main room” booking, which offered a stunning view of the Trocadéro. The restaurant’s décor was minimalist and elegant, with soft lighting that enhanced the breathtaking views of Paris. The overall vibe was that of a sophisticated brasserie, but with the added charm of the Eiffel Tower.
A Culinary Journey Through France
The restaurant runs with military precision, with two two-hour seatings per night. However, our friendly waiter made us feel like we had all the time in the world. As we sipped our welcome glass of Champagne, our spiced king prawns arrived, served on a bed of colorful avocado, grapefruit, and edible flowers. This was the first surprise – the dish was far better than we expected from what we thought was essentially a tourist restaurant.
The roast herbed guinea fowl breast that followed was equally impressive, served with creamy mashed potatoes, green asparagus, and a rich mushroom sauce. My husband opted for the grilled lamb, and we both agreed that the dishes were truly quintessentially French.
A Parisian Romance on a Plate
Before dessert, we had a chance to savor the view and enjoy another glass of wine. The rich chocolate marquise was the perfect ending to our culinary journey. With our bellies full and our hearts happy, we ended the evening with a trip to the top of the Eiffel Tower.
A Verdict: A Parisian Experience Worth Savoring
58 Tour Eiffel delivers a dining experience that surpasses expectations. The food was exceptional, the service was attentive, and the ambiance was romantic and charming. The view from the restaurant is simply breathtaking, making it an unforgettable experience.
Here’s a quick summary of our experience:
- Location: 10/10 (Dining atop the Eiffel Tower is hard to beat!)
- Style/Character: 6/10 (The food and view make up for the simple décor)
- Atmosphere: 8/10 (Bustling and lively with a touch of romance)
- Value for money: 8/10 (Better than expected, especially considering the exchange rate)
A few additional notes:
- You can also enjoy a picnic-style lunch at the Eiffel Tower without a reservation.
- Our reviews are completely anonymous, and we pay for our own meals to ensure an honest and unbiased experience.
For more information on where to eat in Paris, check out our ultimate guide to the City of Love!
