Are you ready to experience Paris like a local? Forget the tourist traps and prepare for culinary adventures in some of the most unique and exciting restaurants the City of Lights has to offer.
This guide is your key to discovering hidden gems – places that go beyond the ordinary, offering delicious food and unforgettable experiences. So, grab your appetite and get ready to be wowed!
Dining with a View: Le Jules Verne
Le Jules Verne isn’t your average Parisian bistro. This spectacular restaurant sits atop the Eiffel Tower, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Imagine enjoying exquisite French cuisine while gazing at the iconic landmarks below. It’s an experience that will leave you speechless.
What to expect: Chef Frédéric Anton crafts a menu bursting with French culinary delights. Indulge in their famous foie gras or savor the succulent lobster. And don’t forget to leave room for the heavenly chocolate soufflé! Dining at Le Jules Verne is a luxurious treat, perfect for a special occasion.
A Time-Traveling Feast: Le Train Bleu
Step back in time at Le Train Bleu, a restaurant located in the Gare de Lyon. This magnificent dining spot is famous for its stunning Belle Époque decor, transporting you to a bygone era. The grandeur of the crystal chandeliers, intricate frescoes, and gilded woodwork create an atmosphere of pure elegance.
Foodie delights: The menu at Le Train Bleu features an array of classic French dishes. Treat yourself to the roasted leg of lamb carved tableside or the pike quenelles, a traditional delicacy. For a truly unforgettable experience, try the Bresse poultry with tarragon cream and the iconic rum baba for dessert.
Dining in the Dark: Dans le Noir
Dans le Noir offers a truly unique dining experience that challenges your senses. This extraordinary restaurant invites you to enjoy a meal in complete darkness. Located near the Seine and the Marais district, this innovative concept allows you to experience the world of taste, smell, and touch in a whole new way.
Embracing the unknown: The menu at Dans le Noir is a delicious surprise, designed to excite your palate with unexpected flavors and textures. Each dish is carefully prepared to provide an unforgettable dining experience. The visually impaired staff guide you through the meal, adding a personal touch to this extraordinary culinary journey.
A Sustainable Feast: La Recyclerie
La Recyclerie is more than just a restaurant; it’s a sustainable haven where delicious food meets environmental consciousness. Nestled in a repurposed train station, this eco-friendly spot offers a taste of community and sustainability.
A taste of the green life: The menu features seasonal, homemade dishes, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. They offer a variety of options, including vegetarian and vegan meals. Don’t miss the weekend brunch, featuring fresh vegetables from their garden, scrambled eggs, and delectable pastries. La Recyclerie also hosts workshops on DIY projects and urban farming, providing a platform for green living and community engagement.
Swing into Flavor: Sur Un Arbre Perché
Looking for a fun and unique dining experience in the heart of Paris? Sur Un Arbre Perché is the place for you. This whimsical restaurant lets you dine on swings, adding a playful touch to your meal. Located near the Opera and the Bourse, this spot is perfect for a break from the traditional Parisian bistros.
A delightful menu: The menu at Sur Un Arbre Perché is packed with tasty options. Enjoy crispy chicken, goat cheese makis, or a comforting pea soup with coconut milk. For the main course, choose from Caesar salad, saffron risotto, or succulent duck breast with cherry sauce. Indulge in their delicious chocolate cake or rhubarb crumble for a sweet ending to your meal.
A Quirky Home Away from Home: Derrière
Escape the ordinary and step into the charming world of Derrière, a restaurant nestled in the trendy Le Marais district. This quirky and stylish space feels more like a friend’s house than a restaurant, with a ping-pong table, eclectic furniture, and even a bed for dining upstairs.
Creative French fare: The menu at Derrière features a blend of classic French and contemporary dishes. Indulge in the tender veal with mashed potatoes, or savor the delicious cod with herbs. Their brunch offers a delightful array of fresh and flavorful options. For a truly unique experience, try their risotto and steak frites, showcasing the restaurant’s creative approach to classic dishes.
Wine and Dine in Style: O’Château
O’Château is a restaurant near the Louvre that combines delicious French cuisine with an extensive wine selection. This charming spot offers a cozy wine bar where you can savor a variety of wines from across France. The staff is dedicated to helping you choose the perfect wine to complement your meal.
A classic French experience: The menu at O’Château is full of traditional French dishes, from fresh oysters and creamy truffle soup to succulent duck breast and filet mignon. Don’t miss the cheese platter, a must-try for cheese lovers. And be sure to finish your meal with a delicious crème brûlée.
Bite-Sized French Delights: L’Avant Comptoir
L’Avant Comptoir is a cozy gem in the 6th arrondissement that focuses on small plates and big flavors. This unique restaurant offers a fresh perspective on the classic French bistro experience. Forget pizza; here you’ll find delicious croquettes, tartines, and amazing charcuterie.
A taste of French flair: Don’t miss their famous foie gras waffle, a unique blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The atmosphere is casual and lively, with friendly waiters ready to guide you through the menu. L’Avant Comptoir is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique and delicious French culinary experience.
Rooftop Dining with a View: Les Ombres
Les Ombres is a Parisian restaurant that offers a truly unforgettable dining experience. Perched on the rooftop of the Quai Branly Museum, this restaurant boasts unbeatable views of the Eiffel Tower. Imagine savoring a delicious meal while the iconic landmark lights up before your eyes.
Modern French cuisine: Les Ombres serves up French cuisine with a modern twist, featuring dishes like foie gras, lobster, and lamb. Each plate is a work of art, visually stunning and bursting with flavor. The chocolate fondant is a must-try, and the wine list features some of the best French wines.
A Culinary Cruise: Bustronome
Bustronome offers a unique dining experience that combines a gourmet meal with a sightseeing tour through the heart of Paris. Imagine enjoying a delicious meal while cruising past iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Champs-Élysées, all from the comfort of panoramic windows.
French classics and modern twists: The menu at Bustronome features a delicious blend of French classics and modern dishes. Indulge in rich foie gras or a velvety soup, followed by tender beef or fresh fish. The desserts are truly heavenly, especially the decadent chocolate cake. Bustronome is a perfect choice for anyone looking for a unique and memorable dining experience in Paris.
