It’s hard not to feel a bit smug as you bypass the colossal lines for the Eiffel Tower’s lifts and join the smaller queue for those dining at the 58 Tour Eiffel restaurant.
A sense of exclusivity washes over you as you anticipate the culinary adventure that awaits.
My husband and I were embarking on a Parisian evening of French wine, exquisite cuisine, and romance. Or, at least, that was the dream.
But what if it was a gastronomic nightmare? Could it be a two-hour ordeal of subpar food, cheap wine, and hordes of tourists?
With the iconic wrought iron structure soaring above, it’s impossible to resist the excitement as everyone in the restaurant’s exclusive lift jostles for a prime view of Paris. The anticipation for our dining destination was palpable.
A Grand Entrance and An Elegant Ambiance
As the grand double doors swung open with a flourish at precisely 6:30 pm, our sense of expectation (and impatience) grew. In a flash, everyone was seated across the restaurant’s two levels. Tour groups were carefully segregated, leaving intimate tables for two and four to enjoy a more private dining experience.
The 58 Tour Eiffel offers three pre-booked dinner options, priced between $118 and $165, depending on table location and whether wine is included.
We were lucky that our mid-priced ‘privileged seating in the main room’ booking came with the same breathtaking Trocadéro view as the most expensive tables, just one row back from the window.
The overall vibe of the restaurant at night is an elegant brasserie set against the backdrop of the dazzling City of Lights. Minimalist furnishings and soft lighting amplify the beauty of the view.
A Culinary Journey Beyond Expectations
With two two-hour seatings per night, the 58 Tour Eiffel operates with military precision. However, our friendly waiter managed to create the illusion that we had all the time in the world.
As we sipped our welcome glass of Champagne, our appetizer arrived: spiced king prawns served atop a colorful array of avocado, grapefruit, and sweet edible blooms.
The dish was far better than we expected, especially considering the restaurant’s reputation as a tourist destination.
The roast herbed guinea fowl breast that followed, paired with mashed potato, green asparagus, and mushroom cream, was quintessentially French and equally impressive. My husband’s choice of grilled lamb was equally delicious.
Before indulging in the rich chocolate marquise for dessert, we enjoyed the view and another glass of wine, savoring the Parisian night.
A Conclusion that Shines
Our evening concluded with a trip to the top of the Eiffel Tower, of course.
The food and service at 58 Tour Eiffel exceeded our expectations, making this iconic dining experience a resounding success.
Location: 10 / 10 – Dining atop the Eiffel Tower is simply unbeatable.
Style/Character: 6 / 10 – While the food and view are top-notch, the décor is a bit bland.
Atmosphere: 8 / 10 – Lively and bustling with a touch of romance.
Value for Money: 8 / 10 – Given the exchange rate, it’s a better value than you might expect.
Notes:
- You can also enjoy a picnic-style lunch without a reservation.
- All IT reviews are conducted anonymously, and our writers pay their own way, ensuring an authentic experience.
For more information on where to eat in Paris, check out our ultimate guide to the City of Love.
