Ready to dine with the Eiffel Tower as your backdrop? This guide is your ultimate resource for planning an unforgettable dining experience at this iconic landmark, no matter your budget or occasion.
A Towering Gastronomic Journey: Restaurants with a View
The Eiffel Tower isn’t just a beautiful structure, it’s also home to two exceptional restaurants: Le Jules Verne and 58 Tour Eiffel. Both offer exquisite cuisine and breathtaking panoramic vistas of Paris. They share a rich history, connected through their location, chefs, and design.
Imagine: gazing out at the city of lights as you savor each delectable bite. These restaurants are more than just places to eat – they are destinations in themselves.
The Eiffel Tower’s Culinary Evolution
Since its inauguration in 1889, the Eiffel Tower has seen many changes in its dining scene. The original four restaurants on the first floor were replaced with two in 1937. Then, in 2009, the two restaurants were combined and 58 Tour Eiffel was born under the creative direction of Patrick Jouin, who also designed the interior of Le Jules Verne.
Think of it: the Eiffel Tower’s restaurants have evolved alongside the city itself, reflecting the changing tastes and trends of the Parisian culinary landscape.
58 Tour Eiffel: Contemporary Cuisine with a View
At 58 Tour Eiffel, Thierry Marx, a “gastronomic explorer” with two Michelin stars, crafts exquisite dishes that perfectly complement the breathtaking 360-degree views. He’s even created waste-free recipes for astronauts!
You can expect: starters like duck foie gras or seared tiger prawns, and main courses like seared salmon fillet or roasted leg of lamb. There are different menu options to choose from, including the Opera Menu (around €70 pp) with three courses and the Tasting Menu (around €135 pp) with seven courses.
Tip: To savor this unique dining experience, book your table in advance.
Le Jules Verne: Parisian Elegance and Michelin-Starred Cuisine
Perched on the second floor, Le Jules Verne offers a more luxurious experience. Named after the famous novelist, Jules Verne, this restaurant exudes class and sophistication. Every detail, from the cutlery to the chairs, was meticulously chosen and crafted for an elegant ambiance.
Imagine: enjoying a gourmet meal as you gaze out at Paris from 125 meters above the ground.
Head Chef Frédéric Anton, a master of French gastronomy, has won three Michelin stars and the prestigious Meilleur Ouvrier de France award. He presents a “gastronomic voyage to the center of Paris,” with two tasting menu options: a 5-course tasting menu (€190 pp) or a 7-course tasting menu (€230 pp).
Tip: This is a popular spot, so book your table far in advance, especially if you want a window seat.
More than Just Dinner: Other Dining Options at the Eiffel Tower
Beyond the fine dining restaurants, the Eiffel Tower offers various other options for dining:
- Champagne Bar: Enjoy a glass of bubbly or caviar as you gaze out over the city of love.
- Buffets: Perfect for larger groups or families with children, the buffets on the first and second floors offer a casual dining experience.
Tip: To access the buffets, take a guided climb of the Eiffel Tower.
Other Eiffel Tower Dining Experiences
If the restaurants are outside your budget, consider these alternative dining options:
- Seine River Cruises: Enjoy dinner and/or champagne while cruising along the Seine, often with skip-the-line access to the Eiffel Tower.
Think of it: combining a picturesque river cruise with a visit to the Eiffel Tower – a perfect combination!
No matter your budget or your taste, there’s a perfect Eiffel Tower dining experience waiting for you. Bon appétit!
