Imagine this: You’re strolling past massive queues, feeling a bit smug as you join a smaller line. This is no ordinary line, it’s the entrance to a Parisian dream – dining at the iconic 58 Tour Eiffel restaurant on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower.
This is no ordinary dinner. It’s an evening filled with the promise of French wine, exquisite cuisine, and unforgettable romance. We were ready for a night of culinary bliss, or so we hoped. There was a chance we were headed for two hours of dining hell with mediocre food, cheap wine, and endless tour groups.
As we stood beneath the imposing wrought iron structure, the excitement was palpable. Everyone jostled for a better view of Paris as they entered the restaurant’s exclusive lift. Our anticipation (and impatience) grew with each passing moment.
The grand double doors swung open with a flourish at precisely 6:30 PM, revealing a bustling scene. Guests were seated across two levels, with tour groups separated from intimate tables for two and four.
58 Tour Eiffel offers three pre-booked dinner options, ranging in price from $118 to $165, depending on your table location and whether wine is included. We lucked out with a “privileged seating in the main room” booking, which, to our delight, provided the same breathtaking Trocadéro view as the most expensive tables, albeit one row back from the window. The restaurant’s ambiance can best be described as an elegant brasserie set against the backdrop of the City of Lights. Minimalist furnishings and soft lighting enhanced the mesmerizing view.
With two two-hour seatings per night, the restaurant runs like a well-oiled machine. Despite the organized efficiency, our friendly waiter managed to create the illusion that we had all the time in the world.
Just as we finished our welcome glass of Champagne, our entrée arrived – spiced king prawns served on a colorful bed of avocado, grapefruit, and sweet edible blooms. It was a delightful surprise, far exceeding our expectations for a restaurant catering to tourists.
The roasted herbed guinea fowl breast that followed, served with mashed potato, green asparagus, and mushroom cream, was quintessentially French and equally impressive. My husband’s grilled lamb was equally delicious.
There was a welcome break before dessert, a rich chocolate marquise. This gave us time to savor the view and enjoy another glass of wine before we concluded our evening with a trip to the top of the Eiffel Tower – an experience no Parisian visit is complete without.
A Culinary Triumph on the Eiffel Tower
The food and service at 58 Tour Eiffel far surpassed our expectations. It was a culinary triumph, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the City of Lights. The experience was a perfect blend of exquisite cuisine, impeccable service, and unparalleled views. This iconic dining experience delivers on its promises, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Rating 58 Tour Eiffel
Here’s a breakdown of our rating for 58 Tour Eiffel:
- Location: 10/10 – Dining atop the Eiffel Tower is hard to beat.
- Style/Character: 6/10 – The food and the view more than make up for the bland, beige 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.
Notes:
- You can also enjoy a picnic-style lunch at the Eiffel Tower without a reservation.
- All of our reviews are conducted anonymously, and we pay our own way, ensuring that you get an honest and unbiased account of the experience.
- For more information on where to eat in Paris, check out our ultimate guide to the City of Love here.
