For over a decade, we’ve been on a quest we fondly call “the Paris natural wine bar and restaurant project.” While we’re not die-hard natural wine enthusiasts (there are both good and bad, after all), we do have friends who are passionate about them. This shared love for wine has led us on a delightful journey of culinary discovery throughout the City of Lights.
Think of it as a treasure hunt for hidden gems, seeking out unique restaurants that offer authentic Parisian experiences rather than the same tired tourist spots. Our goal is to explore places that are off the beaten path, avoiding the well-trodden tourist routes and finding those truly local experiences.
More Than Just Wine
With over 26,000 restaurants in Paris, finding the right one can be daunting. While travel magazines often tout the same established names, we aim for a more intimate approach. We’re not seeking luxury or Michelin stars. We’re looking for simple, authentic neighborhood restaurants that serve delicious food paired with great wine.
A Decade of Discoveries
Our journey began over ten years ago, and since then, we’ve explored over 50 restaurants. The natural wine aspect is not the core focus, but it’s a nice bonus, especially for our wine-loving friends. Even if the wine isn’t strictly “natural”, a good bottle of organic wine will always suffice. These days, finding a Parisian restaurant without a selection of natural wines is becoming increasingly rare.
Beyond the Wine List: Good Food, Good Vibes
Ultimately, the true allure of these restaurants lies in their warm and welcoming atmosphere. Forget fancy décor and pretentious service; these places are all about good food, good company, and a relaxing Parisian experience.
The Paris Wine Bar & Restaurant Project: Our Top Picks
Here are some of our favorite spots, showcasing the diverse flavors and hidden gems that Paris has to offer:
- Bistrotters – for its authentic neighborhood vibe and cozy atmosphere.
- Willi’s Wine Bar – a timeless classic, still a top choice for wine lovers.
- Macéo – for its impressive wine list and refined elegance.
- Tadam – a charming and unpretentious spot with surprisingly delicious food.
- Chez Nathalie – perfect for enjoying a meal al fresco, with its delightful outdoor seating.
- Simone – known for its exceptional food and inviting patio.
- Le Nom m’Echappe – excellent food in a sophisticated part of Paris.
- Mamagoto – a small gem with Asian-inspired dishes and a surprising selection of wines.
Let’s delve deeper into some of these fantastic finds:
A Taste of Paris, Neighborhood by Neighborhood
- Bistrotters – A small, authentic neighborhood restaurant nestled behind Gare Montparnasse. It truly captures the spirit of Parisian life.
- Willi’s Wine Bar – A long-standing favorite run by the charismatic Mark Williamson. While not strictly a natural wine haven, it boasts an exceptional wine list and exquisite cuisine.
- Macéo – This tiny neighborhood restaurant near Salpetrière and rue Monge is a hidden gem. It’s the kind of place you wish was just around the corner, perfect for those nights when you don’t feel like cooking.
- Tadam – This restaurant occupies the former space of La Régalade, a legendary Parisian bistro run by the renowned chef Yves Camdeborde. Now under new ownership and a new name, it remains a classic French restaurant with an excellent wine selection.
- Chez Nathalie – This charming neighborhood restaurant is a short walk from La Butte aux Cailles, a hidden treasure just behind Place d’Italie. Enjoy a delightful meal on their outdoor patio, perfect for a warm summer evening.
- Simone – Nestled in a peaceful square in the Les Peupliers neighborhood, Simone is a cafe-bistrot with a large outdoor terrace. It’s the ideal spot to relax and soak in the Parisian atmosphere.
- Le Nom m’Echappe – This elegant restaurant is owned by Mark Williamson, the same owner as Willi’s Wine Bar. While Willi’s is casual, Le Nom m’Echappe offers a refined dining experience with outstanding value for money.
- Mamagoto – This small and ambitious neighborhood restaurant offers a delightful tasting menu. We were particularly impressed by their outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying a meal in September. The restaurant also has a wine shop next door.
- Tadam – Located on the backside of Montmartre, this small and simple (in a good way!) restaurant offers ambitious cuisine and an impressive wine list.
- Chez Nathalie – This trendy spot is often featured in articles about natural wine bars and restaurants in Paris. It’s a classic café with a short but classic menu and a comprehensive wine list.
- Simone – This small restaurant offers a fusion of Asian and Latin flavors on a short, well-composed menu. The food is delicious and the wine selection is excellent.
- Le Nom m’Echappe – This charming restaurant is located in the 12th arrondissement, a stone’s throw from La Bastille.
- Macéo – This newly opened restaurant offers a focus on natural wines and a simple yet satisfying menu.
- Willi’s Wine Bar – Located near La Bourse (Palais Brongniart), this stylish restaurant has a sophisticated interior.
- Bistrotters – This traditional Parisian cafe-bistrot is located in Le Butte Aux Cailles, a hidden gem worth exploring.
- Tadam – This neighborhood restaurant is a true testament to the Parisian bistro experience.
- Chez Nathalie – Located near the Père Lachaise cemetery, this classic bistro offers a taste of traditional Parisian cuisine.
- Simone – One of the top restaurants on our list for the quality of its cuisine, although it has recently been transformed into a more sophisticated restaurant with only set menus.
- Le Nom m’Echappe – This spacious neighborhood restaurant offers classic French cuisine and an excellent wine selection.
- Macéo – The first restaurant we visited on our Paris natural wine bar and restaurant project. This bistro is located on Butte Chaumont and boasts excellent wine selection and delicious food.
Our Paris natural wine bar and restaurant project is an ongoing adventure, offering a glimpse into the authentic and delicious world of Parisian cuisine. So, ditch the tourist traps, grab a friend, and join us on this culinary quest. You won’t regret it!
