Do you dream of dining near the Eiffel Tower, but fear falling into a tourist trap? Fear not! While many restaurants in the area are known for their inflated prices and subpar food, there are countless hidden gems just a short stroll away. This guide, compiled by a long-time Parisian, unveils the best restaurants near the Eiffel Tower, from intimate bistros to Michelin-starred havens, ensuring you’ll have an unforgettable dining experience.
Dine on the Eiffel Tower: An Unforgettable Experience
The Eiffel Tower boasts two exceptional restaurants: Le Jules Verne and Madame Brasserie.
Le Jules Verne, perched on the tower’s second floor, offers breathtaking panoramic views of Paris. This iconic restaurant has been awarded a Michelin star and features a changing menu crafted by a team of four talented chefs. Expect exquisitely executed cuisine and a truly unforgettable experience. However, be prepared to book well in advance as reservations are required through their online system. Secure your spot 90 days prior to your desired date!
Madame Brasserie, located on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower, is a more affordable option than its Michelin-starred counterpart. While once known for its self-service format, this restaurant has been revitalized by star chef Thierry Marx, offering a delightful dining experience. Enjoy a selection of set menus, with prices varying depending on your seating choice. The coveted window seats, offering unparalleled views of the city, come at a premium, costing double the central tables. Reservations are recommended through their online platform.
Best Affordable Restaurants Near the Eiffel Tower
Beyond the Eiffel Tower, the city teems with culinary delights. Discover the best affordable options that won’t break the bank:
Le Petit Cler
Nestled on the charming rue Cler, Le Petit Cler is a casual café offering classic French dishes at reasonable prices. This neighborhood favorite, belonging to the same restaurant family as the upscale La Fontaine de Mars, is the perfect spot for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner. Indulge in their delicious Poilane bread tartines, fresh salads, omelets, and delectable daily specials.
Zia
This contemporary coffee shop, owned by Justin Kent of the renowned Milagro (see the Modern Restaurants section), offers a casual and creative atmosphere for breakfast, lunch, or a quick snack. Zia serves market-driven brunch fare all week long, with set menus and à la carte options that pair perfectly with their specialty coffee.
Sunflower Café
As its name suggests, Sunflower Café embraces a healthy approach to cuisine, featuring freshly squeezed juices, smoothies, gourmet sandwiches, vibrant salads made with seasonal ingredients, and hearty Buddha bowls. Enjoy your meal at one of their few indoor tables, on the terrace, or as a picnic on the Champ de Mars, right in front of the Eiffel Tower.
Best Family Restaurants near the Eiffel Tower
Traveling with children? These family-friendly restaurants ensure everyone is happy:
Chez Pippo
A short walk from the Eiffel Tower, this good-quality Italian trattoria serves up classic pasta and pizza, perfect for satisfying even the pickiest eaters. Chez Pippo offers homemade pasta, bruschetta, meat dishes, and both Roman and Neapolitan-style pizzas. Outdoor seating provides a delightful summertime dining experience for families.
Sandwicherie Comme Chez Vous
For a quick and kid-friendly bite, Sandwicherie Comme Chez Vous is a great option. As the name suggests, this restaurant offers a variety of sandwiches, as well as crêpes and hot and cold beverages. Enjoy your meal on their small outdoor terrace with Eiffel Tower views, or take it to go and continue exploring.
Le Crepuscule
Crêpes are a beloved French treat, especially among children. Le Crepuscule, a charming crêperie located a short distance from the Eiffel Tower, offers a delightful selection of galettes (buckwheat crêpes), as well as the option to create your own with your favorite ingredients. Don’t forget to save room for dessert!
Best Traditional French Restaurants near the Eiffel Tower
Experience the best of French cuisine at these exceptional establishments:
Arnaud Nicolas
Carnivores will delight in Arnaud Nicolas, a temple to charcuterie and one of the best French restaurants in the area. Chef Arnaud Nicolas, awarded the prestigious title of Meilleur Ouvrier de France, has mastered the art of pâté en croûte, terrine, and foie gras. Savor these delicacies in his stylish restaurant, or take them to go from his haute-couture delicatessen, conveniently located around the corner from the Eiffel Tower.
L’Auberge Bressane
This beloved neighborhood institution has been serving exceptional French cuisine for over 60 years. L’Auberge Bressane offers classic French dishes like escargots, foie gras with apricot chutney, and veal sweetbreads. However, their most celebrated dish is undoubtedly the famous souflés. Enjoy the restaurant’s charming interior that transports you back in time, or opt for a seat on their spacious terrace on sunny days.
Best Modern Restaurants near the Eiffel Tower
For a contemporary take on French cuisine, explore these modern restaurants:
Milagro
Justin Kent, with his American father and French mother, has worked at some of Paris’s most acclaimed restaurants, including Michelin 3-star restaurant, L’Arpège. He brings his experience and passion to Milagro, offering an inventive menu that changes with the seasons. Don’t miss their homemade panfried gnocchi with fried artichoke and shiitake mushrooms, a true culinary masterpiece.
Bistrot Belhara
Located around the corner from the renowned rue Cler, Bistrot Belhara is the brainchild of Basque chef Thierry Dufroux. Drawing inspiration from his native southwestern region, the restaurant features a daily chalkboard menu showcasing seasonal dishes and creative pintxos tapas. Their dinner menu highlights seasonal dishes and a tasting menu carefully curated by the chef.
Tomy + Co.
Chef Tomy Gousset’s Tomy + Co. has earned a coveted Michelin star for its exceptional bistronomic cuisine. The restaurant features original takes on French classics, showcasing the freshest vegetables from their own garden. Sample their delicious tasting menus, or splurge on the decadent option featuring truffles and caviar.
Best Unique Restaurants near the Eiffel Tower
For a truly unforgettable dining experience, consider these unique options:
Ducasse sur Seine
Embark on a romantic dinner cruise on the Seine with Ducasse sur Seine, a prestigious glass boat that sets sail from the Eiffel Tower. While savoring a menu designed by renowned chef Alain Ducasse, you’ll glide down the Seine, admiring exquisite views of the Eiffel Tower from a unique vantage point. This is the perfect choice for a special occasion.
Girafe
Located across the river in the Palais de Chaillot, Girafe is a glamorous restaurant boasting an Art Deco design and a prized terrace facing the Eiffel Tower. While known for its exceptional seafood, the menu also features a selection of salads and meat dishes. Be sure to book well in advance as reservations are highly recommended.
Discover the Eiffel Tower and Beyond
This guide has unveiled some of the best dining experiences near the Eiffel Tower, offering a diverse range of cuisines and atmospheres to suit every taste. From the iconic restaurants perched atop the Eiffel Tower to hidden neighborhood gems, there’s a perfect culinary adventure awaiting you. So, venture beyond the tourist traps and discover the true culinary treasures of Paris!
