Paris is bursting with culinary gems, but finding a good meal around Notre Dame can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. The area around the cathedral is packed with tourist traps, but don’t despair! There are still amazing restaurants tucked away, ready to tantalize your taste buds.
We’ve compiled a list of the best restaurants within a short stroll from the iconic Notre Dame, perfect for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner. From traditional French bistros to contemporary gastronomic experiences, you’ll find something to satisfy every craving.
A Parisian Feast: From Classic Bistros to Contemporary Delights
Bookish Bites at La Fourmi Ailée
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city at La Fourmi Ailée, a charming tea salon nestled in a former bookstore on the Left Bank. Immerse yourself in the whimsical ambiance with bookshelves lining the walls, a cozy fireplace, and a captivating painted ceiling. This unique space offers a delightful selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including creative salads, flavorful quiches, and comforting vegan lasagna. You can also indulge in classic meat dishes for a satisfying lunch.
Gilded Splendor and Parisian Charm at Le Zimmer
Step back in time at Le Zimmer, a legendary restaurant on the Right Bank. This architectural gem boasts a stunning interior decorated with gilded wood paneling, intricate ceilings, and elegant paintings. Savor a taste of history with a delightful two-course lunch for a reasonable price. You’ll find a diverse menu catering to all tastes, with highlights including oeuf mimosa with crab, guinea fowl with tarragon cream, and a delectable vegan bowl.
Neighborhood Gem: Café Panis
Experience a true Parisian café experience at Café Panis, a bustling spot just across from Notre Dame. Despite attracting a fair share of tourists, it retains a charming neighborhood feel. Enjoy a value-packed two-course lunch menu or choose from the à la carte options, featuring crowd-pleasers like croque-monsieur sandwiches, juicy burgers, vegetarian curry, and their specialty, boeuf bourguignon.
Second Empire Charm at Café des Deux Palais
Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Second Empire style at Café des Deux Palais, located across from the Sainte-Chapelle. This popular spot attracts both locals and tourists, offering a lively atmosphere and a prime location with a terrace overlooking the Palais de Justice courthouse. Savor classic brasserie fare like escargot, roast chicken with fries, omelets, and refreshing salads.
Boulangerie La Parisienne: Award-Winning Bread and More
Craving a delicious and affordable picnic? Head to Boulangerie La Parisienne, just a block south of Notre Dame. This bakery, owned by the “best baguette in Paris” winner, offers a mouthwatering selection of sandwiches, salads, pastries, and more, all crafted with their award-winning bread. Pick up a picnic basket and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Seine River while savoring the flavors of Paris.
Southwest Flavors at Chez Gladines – Saint-Germain
Indulge in a taste of the Southwest of France at Chez Gladines – Saint-Germain, a cheerful eatery with a vibrant atmosphere. This restaurant boasts a fun décor with colorful wooden chairs and 1950s pinups, adding to its unique character. Enjoy generous portions of regional specialties like Basque-style chicken or cassoulet, omelets with foie gras, hearty salads, and crispy fried potatoes, all at very reasonable prices.
Crêperie des Arts: A Parisian Classic
Skip the touristy crepe stands and head to Crêperie des Arts, a true Parisian institution. This crêperie, just a short walk from Place Saint-Michel, has been flipping authentic crepes filled with your favorite toppings since 1973. Don’t forget to save room for a decadent dessert crepe drizzled with caramel au beurre salé.
Au Bougnat: A Taste of Île de la Cité
Escape the crowds and discover a culinary gem on Île de la Cité at Au Bougnat. This traditional bistro, with its wooden benches and tables, draws in locals with its delicious foie gras and fig terrine, garlicky snails, savory coq au vin, and creamy asparagus risotto. Enjoy a satisfying meal at reasonable prices in a charming setting.
Benoit: A Historic Bistro with a Modern Twist
Travel back to the early 20th century at Benoit, a historic bistro steeped in Parisian culinary history. This swank eatery, dating back to 1912, boasts a rich legacy, upholding tradition with well-prepared French classics. Indulge in their three-course lunch menu and savor exquisite dishes like pâté en croûte, parsnip velouté, pan-seared black pudding, and casserole of sweetbreads with foie gras.
Le Bon Moment: A Family-Friendly Café
Seeking a kid-friendly spot for a break during your sightseeing adventure? Le Bon Moment is a haven for families with children, offering a cozy kids’ corner with books and toys. Enjoy a relaxing atmosphere and delicious coffee, brunch-style items like avocado toast, Asian dishes, and a tempting selection of desserts.
Beyond Traditional: Contemporary and Gastronomic Gems
Le Sergent Recruteur: Michelin Starred Dining
For a truly memorable gastronomic experience, visit Le Sergent Recruteur, a Michelin-starred restaurant located on Île Saint-Louis. This stylish and cozy restaurant offers a unique blend of ancient stone walls and contemporary seating, creating a refined ambiance. Indulge in exquisite modern dishes like white asparagus with Viennese soft-boiled egg, creamy artichoke with smoked parmesan, and roast guinea fowl with daikon radish confit.
Whether you’re searching for a quick bite or a special occasion dinner, the restaurants around Notre Dame offer a culinary journey through Parisian history and contemporary flavors. Bon appétit!
