There’s a certain satisfaction that comes with gliding past long lines and heading straight to your destination. My husband and I felt this thrill as we bypassed the massive queues for the Eiffel Tower’s elevator and joined the smaller line for those dining at the esteemed 58 Tour Eiffel restaurant. We were excited for an evening of French charm, delectable cuisine, and breathtaking city views. However, the excitement was tinged with a hint of apprehension—would this iconic experience live up to the hype, or would we be subjected to mediocre food and an onslaught of tourist crowds?
The Eiffel Tower’s majestic silhouette loomed above us, fueling our anticipation as we stepped into the restaurant’s exclusive elevator. The atmosphere buzzed with energy, each passenger eager to capture a glimpse of Paris and the dining venue that awaited them.
A Feast for the Senses
As we approached the grand double doors, a sense of anticipation filled the air. Precisely at 6:30 pm, the doors swung open with a dramatic flourish, revealing a bustling scene. Guests were quickly seated across the restaurant’s two levels, with organized tour groups occupying a designated area, separate from the intimate tables for two and four. This thoughtful arrangement ensured a more personalized experience for couples and smaller groups.
The restaurant offers three pre-booked dining options, ranging from $118 to $165, depending on table location and whether wine is included. Fortunately, our mid-priced ‘privileged seating in the main room’ booking provided us with an exceptional view of the Trocadéro, just one row back from the window.
The ambiance of 58 Tour Eiffel perfectly captured the essence of Parisian elegance. The minimalist furnishings and soft lighting allowed the breathtaking city views to take center stage. The restaurant had a distinct “elegant brasserie” vibe, offering a sophisticated yet comfortable setting for a memorable meal.
A Taste of Parisian Excellence
With two two-hour seatings per night, the restaurant operates with a seamless efficiency that belies the bustling atmosphere. While the service runs like clockwork, our friendly waiter managed to create a warm and inviting ambiance, making us feel as though we had all the time in the world.
We had just finished our welcome glass of Champagne when our spiced king prawns entrée arrived. It was an unexpected delight, with the prawns nestled atop a vibrant bed of avocado, grapefruit, and delicate, sweet edible blooms. The flavors were surprisingly well-balanced, proving that even a tourist-focused restaurant can deliver culinary excellence.
Our main courses were equally impressive. The roast herbed guinea fowl breast, served with mashed potato, green asparagus, and mushroom cream, was a quintessential French dish. My husband opted for the grilled lamb, which was equally delicious. The quality and presentation of the food were truly exceptional.
Thankfully, a brief respite was offered before the rich chocolate marquise dessert, giving us time to savor the breathtaking view and enjoy another glass of wine. It was the perfect way to conclude our evening before taking a final trip to the top of the Eiffel Tower.
A Parisian Experience to Remember
58 Tour Eiffel exceeded our expectations. The food was delicious, the service was excellent, and the views were truly breathtaking. It was a truly memorable dining experience. For those seeking a romantic evening with a touch of Parisian charm, this restaurant is highly recommended.
Ratings:
- Location: 10/10
- Dining atop the Eiffel Tower is truly a unique experience.
- Style/Character: 6/10
- While the food and view were excellent, the décor was relatively simple.
- Atmosphere: 8/10
- The restaurant offers a lively and romantic atmosphere, ideal for special occasions.
- Value for Money: 8/10
- Considering the stunning location and the quality of the food, the prices were reasonable.
Notes:
- If you’re looking for a more casual dining experience, you can also enjoy a picnic-style lunch at the Eiffel Tower without a reservation.
- We provide honest and unbiased reviews, paying for our meals ourselves so you can trust that our opinions are genuine.
- For more dining recommendations in Paris, check out our comprehensive guide to the City of Love.
