Imagine this: You’re strolling past massive queues of tourists, feeling a bit smug as you join a smaller line. This isn’t just any line, though. It’s the line for a special dining experience at the iconic Eiffel Tower.
Intrigued? Let me share my experience at the 58 Tour Eiffel restaurant, perched on the first floor of this architectural marvel. My husband and I were excited about a night of French wine, delicious cuisine, and romantic views. We hoped for the best, but also prepared for the worst: mediocre food, cheap wine, and hordes of tourists.
A World of Expectations
As we stepped into the exclusive lift that ascended towards the restaurant, excitement filled the air. Everyone jostled for the best view, eager to capture Paris’s enchanting panorama. The grand double doors swung open at precisely 6:30 PM, revealing the restaurant’s two levels, buzzing with anticipation.
Separate areas were designated for tour groups, while intimate tables for two and four were tucked away for a more personal experience. This organized setup struck a perfect balance between accessibility and exclusivity.
A Parisian Feast with a View
58 Tour Eiffel offers a selection of pre-booked dinner menus, ranging in price from $118 to $165, depending on your table location and whether wine is included. We were fortunate to secure a “privileged seating” in the main room, offering an unobstructed view of the Trocadéro – just one row back from the window!
The restaurant’s ambiance was sophisticated and elegant, reminiscent of a chic brasserie against the breathtaking backdrop of the City of Lights. Minimalist furnishings and soft lighting enhanced the experience, allowing the mesmerizing panorama to take center stage.
Exquisite Cuisine and Exceptional Service
Despite two two-hour seatings per night, 58 Tour Eiffel operates with military precision – you wouldn’t know it though! Our friendly waiter effortlessly created the illusion that we had all the time in the world.
As we savored our welcome glass of Champagne, the entrée arrived: spiced king prawns artfully presented on a bed of avocado, grapefruit, and sweet edible blooms. This exquisite dish far exceeded our expectations, especially for a restaurant primarily catering to tourists.
The main course was equally impressive. My husband opted for grilled lamb, while I indulged in the quintessentially French roast herbed guinea fowl breast, served with mashed potato, green asparagus, and a creamy mushroom sauce.
A Night of Culinary Delight and Romantic Charm
Before the rich chocolate marquise dessert, we enjoyed a brief respite, soaking in the breathtaking view and sipping another glass of wine. Afterward, we concluded our evening with a trip to the top of the Eiffel Tower – the perfect ending to an unforgettable experience.
58 Tour Eiffel delivers a dining experience that surpasses expectations. With exceptional food, impeccable service, and breathtaking views, this iconic venue creates a truly memorable evening.
Ratings:
Location: 10 / 10 – Dining atop the Eiffel Tower is hard to beat!
Style / Character: 6 / 10 – The food and the view outshine the bland, beige décor.
Atmosphere: 8 / 10 – Bustling and lively with a touch of romance.
Value for money: 8 / 10 – Better than expected given the exchange rate.
Notes:
You can also visit for a picnic-style lunch without a reservation.
All IT reviews are conducted anonymously and our writers pay their own way – so you can be sure we’re experiencing exactly what you would.
For more information on where to eat in Paris, read our ultimate guide to the city of love here.
