Paris, the City of Lights, attracts millions of visitors each year. While many flock to iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the surrounding area can be a minefield of overpriced and underwhelming restaurants. But fear not! This local guide will unveil hidden gems and authentic experiences that will leave you savoring delicious food and stunning views.
Dine on the Eiffel Tower: An Iconic Experience
For a truly memorable dining experience, there’s no beating a meal on the Eiffel Tower. While the iconic Le Jules Verne on the second floor is a world-renowned destination, it comes with a hefty price tag. The restaurant boasts a Michelin star and offers stunning views of Paris, but it’s important to remember that most diners are drawn to the breathtaking panorama rather than the cuisine itself.
Reservations are essential and should be made 90 days in advance if you’re set on a specific date.
If your budget is more modest, head to Madame Brasserie on the first floor. While previously a self-service establishment, the restaurant has undergone a revamp by renowned chef Thierry Marx. Now, it offers a more refined experience at a fraction of the cost of Le Jules Verne.
The restaurant features set menus with prices varying based on seating location. Those coveted window seats with the best views come at a premium.
Reservations are highly recommended for both restaurants.
Best Affordable Restaurants Near the Eiffel Tower
The rue Cler, a charming market street, may have lost some of its original authenticity, but there are still some gems tucked away.
Le Petit Cler, a casual café, offers classic French dishes at reasonable prices. You can enjoy tartines, salads, omelets, and daily specials – perfect for lunch or a relaxed dinner.
For a more modern twist, Zia is a vibrant coffee shop serving creative brunch fare all week long. Their market-driven menus, both set and à la carte, are a great complement to their specialty coffee.
If healthy cuisine is your priority, Sunflower Café is the perfect choice. Freshly squeezed juices, smoothies, gourmet sandwiches, and seasonal salads are just some of the delights on offer. You can enjoy your meal at their indoor tables, on the terrace, or as a picnic in the Champ de Mars, right in front of the Eiffel Tower.
Best Family Restaurants near the Eiffel Tower
Even in France, kids can be fussy eaters! Luckily, there are plenty of family-friendly restaurants near the Eiffel Tower that cater to young palates.
Chez Pippo, an Italian trattoria, offers all the classics: homemade pasta, bruschetta, meat dishes, and both Roman and Neapolitan-style pizzas. The outdoor seating is ideal for summertime meals with the little ones.
For a quick bite, head to Sandwicherie Comme Chez Vous. As the name suggests, they specialize in sandwiches, along with crêpes and hot and cold beverages. Enjoy your meal on the small outdoor terrace with Eiffel Tower views, or grab it to go and continue exploring.
Le Crepuscule is a great option for a sit-down meal. This crêperie offers a range of galettes (buckwheat crêpes) as well as customizable options. Be sure to save room for dessert!
Best Traditional French Restaurants near the Eiffel Tower
For those seeking authentic French cuisine, look no further.
Arnaud Nicolas, a charcuterie lover’s paradise, boasts the prestigious title of Meilleur Ouvrier de France. Chef Arnaud Nicolas has perfected the art of pâté en croûte, terrine, and foie gras, offering these delicacies in his stylish restaurant or as take-away items at his haute-couture delicatessen.
L’Auberge Bressane has been a neighborhood institution for over 60 years, serving classic French dishes like escargots, foie gras with apricot chutney, and veal sweetbreads. But the real star of the show is their famous soufflés. You can enjoy the cozy ambiance of the restaurant’s interior or relax on the spacious terrace on sunny days.
Best Modern Restaurants near the Eiffel Tower
If you’re looking for a more contemporary dining experience, there are several innovative restaurants worth exploring.
Milagro is the brainchild of Justin Kent, a chef with experience at some of Paris’ leading restaurants, including three-Michelin-starred L’Arpège. His inventive menu changes with the seasons, featuring dishes like homemade pan-fried gnocchi with fried artichoke and shiitake mushrooms.
Bistrot Belhara is the creation of Basque chef Thierry Dufroux. The restaurant showcases ingredients and influences from his native southwestern region, offering daily chalkboard specials, creative pintxos tapas, and seasonal dishes.
Tomy + Co, helmed by chef Tomy Gousset, has earned a coveted Michelin star for its bistronomic cuisine. The menu features original takes on French classics, utilizing fresh produce from the chef’s garden. You can enjoy a variety of tasting menus or splurge on the decadent option with truffles and caviar.
Best Unique Restaurants near the Eiffel Tower
For a truly unforgettable dining experience, consider a restaurant with a view that goes beyond the ordinary.
Ducasse sur Seine is a prestigious glass boat that sets sail along the Seine River, offering a unique vantage point of the Eiffel Tower. As you cruise down the river, you can savor a menu designed by renowned chef Alain Ducasse. It’s the perfect choice for a romantic dinner.
Girafe, located in the Palais de Chaillot across the river, boasts an Art Deco design and a terrace with stunning views of the Eiffel Tower. While it’s a little pricey and might be considered overrated by some, it’s undoubtedly one of the best restaurants for breathtaking Eiffel Tower views. The menu features exceptional seafood, along with salads and meat dishes. Reservations are highly recommended.
Beyond the Eiffel Tower, there are plenty more culinary adventures to be had in Paris. Enjoy exploring!
