Paris is a city brimming with restaurants, catering to every taste and budget. From three-Michelin starred establishments fit for royalty to humble bistros that might leave you wondering about the chef’s culinary skills, the options are endless.
However, we all know the internet is flooded with recommendations for good food.
Instead of focusing on the culinary delights themselves, let’s explore ten restaurants with a captivating historical backstory, a unique je ne sais quoi, and the potential to spark interesting conversations over dinner. We’ve included links to their websites for menus and prices, ensuring a diverse mix of dining experiences and price points.
Parisian History on Your Plate
Le Train Bleu is an iconic landmark and a gold standard for Parisian restaurant experiences. Its gilded interior evokes a museum, showcasing the grandeur of southern France. Imagine dining here before embarking on a train journey to the Riviera, a common practice in the past.
Le Vieux Belleville in the Belleville neighborhood offers an authentic singalong evening with talented French musicians. We recommend the Edith Piaf singalong held on Tuesday nights, but other themes are available throughout the week. This bistro serves typical French cuisine at reasonable prices. The owner, a true local, is happy to share his knowledge of the area’s history, if you happen to speak French.
Le Dôme Montparnasse, another iconic Parisian establishment, still retains its charm despite the passage of time. While you won’t find full meals for a dollar, as in Hemingway and Picasso’s day, the seafood menu is a delight, and the interior remains stunning.
From Train Tracks to Dining Tables
Andia occupies a building that once housed a train station on the petite ceinture railway line. The interior is a captivating fusion of old and new, with dining tables placed on the former tracks and ticket booths transformed into kitchens and bars.
The glass ceiling bathes the space in a beautiful light, and the food is exceptional as is the service.
La Rotonde de la Muette exudes an elegant Parisian vibe with its beautiful building and interior adorned with walnut panels and Versailles marble. The food matches the grandeur of the setting, delivering top-notch culinary experiences.
La Rotonde Stalingrad is a vibrant spot day and night, brimming with energy and delicious food. The building dates back to the French Revolution, originally serving as a toll gate to the city.
Parisian Traditions and Hidden Gems
Le Café du Commerce embodies classic Parisian charm. This fun restaurant spans three levels, steeped in local history. It was once a popular hangout for car factory workers who were fed in the hundreds. No visit to the 15th arrondissement is complete without a dinner here.
Bouillon Julien boasts an Art Nouveau interior that is a true wonder. This beautiful old brasserie offers surprisingly affordable food. The ambiance alone is worth the visit, making it a satisfying experience even if you’re not looking for a full dinner.
La Coupole, an art deco restaurant, may not be the most inspiring choice for a late-night visit, but its historical significance is undeniable. It was a popular spot for members of the Lost Generation in Montparnasse. If you’re looking to chase ghosts from the past, this restaurant is for you.
A Millennial Windmill
Le Moulin de la Galette is a unique and charming spot, unlike anything you’d find in the Michelin guide. Diners enjoy their meal under an ancient wooden windmill in Montmartre dating back to 1622. The back garden is immortalized in Renoir’s famous painting “Bal au moulin de la Galette,” which is proudly displayed on the restaurant’s facade.
A Royal Dining Experience
Tour d’Argent, a legendary restaurant dating back to 1582, has catered to royalty and nobility. In 1936, it moved to the top floor, offering epic views over Notre Dame and the Seine River. After undergoing extensive renovations, it reopened in August 2023 and looks spectacular.
Enjoy extraordinary views, a world-class wine menu, and a spectacular show. Their famous pressed duck has been served over 1 million times since 1890.
Bon Appétit!
There are many more hidden culinary gems waiting to be discovered in Paris, and I encourage you to explore them. For even more tips and insights, check out my 2024 Paris guide, available for free to all Patreon members. You can also get a glimpse inside each restaurant in our Paris Countdown series on YouTube, where we showcase the best of each arrondissement. Bon appétit!
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