It can be tough to find the perfect place to eat near the Eiffel Tower. Even if you ask a Parisian, they might just tell you to look elsewhere. Why? The area surrounding Paris’s most famous landmark is filled with a mix of high-end restaurants and tourist traps, making it hard to discover hidden gems.
But don’t worry! We’ve done the hard work for you, so you can relax and enjoy your meal. We’ve curated a list of nine of the best and most authentic restaurants in the 7th arrondissement of Paris. After you find the perfect spot to eat, be sure to check out these seven fascinating facts about the Eiffel Tower!
Parisian Market Charm on Rue Cler
Start your culinary journey on Rue Cler, a charming Parisian market street near the Eiffel Tower. It’s bursting with cafés, bakeries, and specialty shops, including well-known names like Mariage Frères and Alain Ducasse.
For a taste of classic French cuisine with reasonable prices and a cozy atmosphere, Le Petit Cler is a must-visit. While their tartines and salads are delicious, the daily special is a real treat. Each day offers a different classic French dish, such as parmentier de canard (duck casserole), tomates farcies provençal (stuffed tomatoes), or filet mignon, all at an affordable price.
Chic Cafés and Inventive Plates
Step back in time and enjoy the Parisian café experience at Le Café de Mars. This neighborhood bistro will transport you to the 1950s with its formica counters, jazz brunch every Saturday, and a café cat ready to judge your culinary choices!
The menu features a rotating selection of seasonal plates, including roasted fennel with grapefruit and tarragon, roasted carrots with feta and dukkah, and classic desserts like chocolate cake. The friendly service and convenient location, just a 10-minute walk from the Eiffel Tower, make this a perfect spot for a relaxed meal.
Brasserie Classics and Friendly Service
If you’re looking for reliable brasserie classics, Carmine Café is your go-to destination. This café offers something for everyone, from steak and club sandwiches to pizza and café crème with crème brûlée.
But what truly sets Carmine Café apart is its friendly service. Even if you’re a little rusty with your French, you’ll feel welcomed and comfortable.
Artisanal Pastry and Seasonal Treats
For a taste of artisanal pastry and seasonal delights, head to Tapisserie. This neighborhood hotspot is run by the team behind the renowned restaurants Septime and Clamato, bringing a touch of the 11th arrondissement to the Left Bank.
Their savory tarts change weekly, and the croissant sandwich with 24-month aged comté and jambon de Paris is a timeless classic. If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll be spoilt for choice with their delectable desserts, including the chocolate caramel tart, peanut Paris Brest, and Mezcal-infused babas with hints of blood orange.
A Taste of Mexico in Paris
You might not expect to find a burrito in Paris, but Zia offers a delicious twist on this classic dish. This spot serves a streamlined brunch menu featuring burritos, sweet and savory Dutch Baby pancakes, avocado toast, and granola.
The simple menu allows the family-run team to focus on quality, so you can be sure each dish is cooked to perfection. And with the Eiffel Tower just a short walk away, you can easily continue your sightseeing adventure after your meal.
If the weather is nice, order your brunch to go and enjoy a picnic on the Champ de Mars with breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower.
Coffee Lovers’ Paradise
For coffee aficionados, O Coffee Shop is a must-visit. This Aussie-owned specialty coffee shop roasts its beans in Paris and serves up a variety of coffee drinks, including flat whites, cappuccinos, and even iced coffee.
You’ll also find classic brunch items like eggs benedict with avocado, smoked salmon, or bacon. Vegetarians and vegans will be happy to find plenty of options too.
While the classics are always available, keep an eye out for the daily specials to try something new.
Elevated Dining Experiences
If you’re looking for a more luxurious dining experience, these elevated restaurants offer a truly unforgettable meal.
L’Ami Jean is a bistro inspired by seasonal ingredients and French culinary classics. The team creates dishes that will stay with you long after your meal. While the bistro is on the pricier side, it’s worth every penny. Chef Stéphane Jégo takes classic bistro fare to a whole new level, creating dishes like roasted pigeon, terrine de campagne (country pâté), and their famous take on riz au lait (French rice pudding).
Tomy & Co is a Michelin-starred bistro run by Franco-Cambodian chef Tomy Gousset. This culinary lab is known for its visually stunning and flavorful plates. The dégustation menu offers a six-course tasting menu paired with wines, highlighting dishes like fresh sea bream in puffed buckwheat, pigeon with wild garlic and asparagus, and suprême de volaille rôti (roasted chicken).
Ducasse sur Seine is a Michelin-starred floating restaurant that offers unparalleled views of the City of Light. The seasonal menu features dishes like lamb shoulder with eggplant and yogurt, marinated trout with dill and blackcurrant, and truffled burrata foam. The electric boat keeps noise levels low, allowing diners to fully appreciate the exquisite tastes and textures of their meal.
A Culinary Tour to Remember
If this culinary adventure near the Eiffel Tower has sparked your interest, join our Ultimate Paris Food Tour. Our expert team will guide you through the best culinary experiences in the French capital. You’ll taste French classics, Jewish delicacies, modern takes on patisserie, and dine in some of the most authentic family-run kitchens and restaurants in the city.
Ready to experience the best of Parisian cuisine? Start planning your culinary journey today!
