Imagine this: you’re strolling past the Eiffel Tower, the iconic symbol of Paris, and you’re not just admiring it from afar. You’re actually dining inside it! This was my reality, and I’m here to share my experience at 58 Tour Eiffel, a restaurant located on the first floor of the famed structure.
It’s hard to feel anything but a sense of smugness as you bypass the massive lift queues and gracefully join the smaller line reserved for restaurant patrons. We were excited to be embarking on a Parisian adventure, complete with French wine, delectable cuisine, and perhaps even a dash of romance. This was the dream.
But, there was also a sliver of doubt in the back of our minds. Could this be a glorified tourist trap? Would we be subjected to bland food, cheap wine, and an endless stream of tour groups?
A View to Remember
Our nerves were quickly assuaged as we stepped into the exclusive elevator, the iron framework of the Eiffel Tower looming overhead. Every passenger eagerly jostled for the best vantage point, eager to catch a glimpse of the Parisian cityscape and our upcoming dining venue.
The anticipation and eagerness in the air were palpable as the elevator doors swung open with a flourish, precisely at 6:30 PM. The restaurant sprawled across two levels, and within minutes, everyone was seated. A dedicated space was designated for tour groups, ensuring some separation from the intimate tables designed for couples and small parties.
A Culinary Journey
58 Tour Eiffel offers a selection of pre-booked dinner menus, ranging in price from $118 to $165, depending on your chosen table location and whether wine is included.
We were fortunate to snag a mid-priced option, which granted us privileged seating in the main dining area. And guess what? Our table boasted the same breathtaking view of the Trocadéro as the most expensive tables, just one row back from the window.
The ambiance of the restaurant was nothing short of elegant. The minimalist furnishings and soft lighting only amplified the awe-inspiring views of the City of Lights.
A Symphony of Flavors
58 Tour Eiffel, with its two two-hour seatings each night, operates with clockwork precision. However, our friendly waiter skillfully managed to create the illusion that we had all the time in the world.
Our tastebuds were tantalized from the moment we sipped our welcome glass of Champagne. The entrée – spiced king prawns served atop a vibrant medley of avocado, grapefruit, and sweet edible blooms – arrived, exceeding our expectations for a “tourist” restaurant.
The subsequent dish, roasted herbed guinea fowl breast, was quintessentially French. It was accompanied by mashed potato, green asparagus, and a rich mushroom cream sauce. My husband’s choice of grilled lamb was equally impressive.
There was a welcome pause before the rich chocolate marquise arrived for dessert. This gave us the opportunity to savor the view, enjoy another glass of wine, and reflect on the exceptional evening.
A Parisian Experience
Our evening at 58 Tour Eiffel concluded with a trip to the top of the Eiffel Tower, an experience that truly embodied the essence of Paris.
With food and service that surpassed our expectations, this iconic dining experience exceeded all expectations.
Location: 10/10 – Dining atop the Eiffel Tower is an experience that is hard to beat.
Style/Character: 6/10 – The food and views trump the basic, beige décor.
Atmosphere: 8/10 – A lively, bustling atmosphere infused with a touch of romance.
Value for Money: 8/10 – Better than expected, especially given the exchange rate.
Notes:
* You can also visit for a picnic-style lunch without a reservation.
* All IT reviews are conducted anonymously, and our writers pay their own way – so you can be sure our experiences are genuine.
For a more comprehensive guide to Paris’ culinary scene, check out our ultimate guide to the City of Love here.
