It’s a truth universally acknowledged that a day spent immersing oneself in art can leave one famished. And, when you’re in Paris, a trip to the Louvre is a must. You’ve got your walking shoes ready and your itinerary planned, but have you considered where you’ll satisfy those hunger pangs? The Louvre is a vast palace, with a variety of dining options to choose from.
Cafés Fit for a Queen
For those who appreciate fine food as much as art (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t?), Café Richelieu Angelina and Café Grand Louvre are the places to be. But if you’re focused on art, Café Mollien, with its impressive ceiling mural, might be a better choice. Let’s take a closer look at each of these culinary destinations.
Café Richelieu Angelina: A Taste of Parisian History
Imagine this: a location once occupied by the French Minister of Finance, now a haven for delicious treats. Nestled in the Richelieu Wing, just steps away from Napoleon III’s former residence, Café Richelieu Angelina is our top recommendation. With its charming terrace overlooking Cour Napoleon and the Louvre Pyramid, it’s the perfect spot to soak in the Parisian ambiance.
This café has a history as rich as the pastries it serves. Founded in 1903 by Austrian confectioner Anton Rumpelmayer, Angelina, named for his daughter-in-law, has become a true Parisian icon. The Louvre location boasts the same delectable menu as the original, including savory dishes like croque monsieur and quiche lorraine. But the real stars are the pastries, such as the decadent Mont-Blanc and the exquisite Eclair Framboise-Passion.
Café Grand Louvre: A Luxurious French Dining Experience
Located beneath the iconic Pyramid, Café Grand Louvre offers traditional French cuisine in a chic setting. The contemporary space, adorned with a mustard and cobalt-blue color palette, is ideal for a leisurely breakfast or lunch. Forget cafeteria-style meals; here you’ll find real cutlery, glassware, and attentive service.
Enjoy a set menu featuring a starter, main course, and dessert, or opt for the à la carte menu with classic French dishes. From rabbit and hazelnut terrine to seared flank steak with frites, there’s something to please every palate. The extensive wine list and selection of aperitifs complement the cuisine perfectly. While not Michelin-starred, Café Grand Louvre is a delightful option for a memorable Parisian meal.
Café Marly: A Jet-Set Ambiance
Overlooking the Louvre Pyramid, fountains, and Cour Napoléon, Café Marly is a popular spot for those who like to be seen. This vibrant brasserie, with its terrace seating, offers breakfast, lunch, tea, and dinner. While the food is considered decent, the service can be inconsistent. But if you’re looking to rub shoulders with the jet set, Café Marly is the place to be. Conveniently located outside the museum entrance, you don’t need to enter the Louvre to enjoy its offerings.
The menu is a fusion of old and new, blending classics like seared veal liver with more contemporary options like monkfish with tom yam sauce. Expect to pay a premium for the privilege of dining in this lively atmosphere. The Marly cheeseburger, for example, will set you back €30!
Café Mollien: Artful Dining with a Magical Setting
Located on the first floor of the Denon Wing, Café Mollien offers a unique blend of art and dining. With its terrace overlooking Cour Napoléon and the Jardin du Carrousel, it’s a short stroll from the Mona Lisa. Designed by architect Hector Lefuel, the cafe sits beneath Charles-Louis Müller’s stunning ceiling mural, “Glory Distributing Palms and Crowns.”
While the setting is magnificent, the food is more cafeteria-style. If you’re looking for a quick and easy bite or a moment to rest your feet, Café Mollien is a good option. The menu features sandwiches, salads, quiche, pastries, and beverages. The food may be average, but the setting is truly magical.
Cafeteria Options: For a Quick Bite
For those on a tight schedule or simply looking for a quick bite, the Cafes de la Pyramide offer a variety of options. Located on the lower level, under the pyramid in the Richelieu Wing, these cafeterias serve burgers, salads, paninis, pizzas, and pastries. They’re best suited for emergencies when time is of the essence.
For an even quicker fix, there are takeaway counters on the lower level in the Denon and Richelieu Wings. (No, “Richelieu Wings” is not a menu item, but it might make a great snack!).
Escape to the Gardens: A Tranquil Retreat
When you’re ready for a break from the Louvre, head to the gardens next door. Escape the crowds and relax at one of the charming outdoor cafes. The Tuileries is a magnificent park that stretches between the Carrousel du Louvre and the Place de la Concorde.
Café Diane: A Parisian Oasis
Named for the Roman goddess of hunting and nature, Café Diane is a delightful spot for a leisurely afternoon. Located in the heart of the Tuileries, this outdoor cafe boasts stellar views of the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. Surrounded by greenery, it feels like a piece of the countryside in the middle of Paris.
This family-run restaurant offers classic French cuisine in a casual setting. Enjoy croque monsieur, hearty salads, beef bourguignon, roast chicken, and grilled salmon. For those with a sweet tooth, don’t miss the Coupe Toblerone with salted caramel sauce and whipped cream. There’s also takeaway for those in a hurry, with a selection of sandwiches, drinks, ice cream, crepes, and pastries.
Terrasse de Pomone: A View of Parisian Icons
With a terrace overlooking the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower, Terrasse de Pomone offers stunning views of Paris’ most iconic landmarks. This outdoor cafe serves baguette sandwiches, draft beer, champagne, freshly squeezed juices, and homemade desserts. From apple-raisin crumble to clafoutis with fresh cherries, there’s something to satisfy every craving. They also offer a variety of Mövenpick ice cream concoctions, French salads, savory tarts, Breton galettes, waffles, and crepes. Open from April 15 to October 15, Terrasse de Pomone is the perfect spot to enjoy a refreshing break amidst the bustling city.
