Stepping into Paris is like stepping into a storybook. The cobblestone streets, charming cafes, and majestic architecture whisper tales of romance, art, and, of course, exquisite cuisine. But where to start? Let’s embark on a gastronomic adventure through some of the most celebrated restaurants in the City of Lights.
A Symphony of Flavors: French Gastronomy Reimagined
Imagine a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city, a haven of elegant dining tucked away in a bucolic garden. The Bellefeuille at The Saint James Paris Hotel embodies this very essence. Stepping through the door, you’re greeted by a series of intimate dining rooms, where François-Joseph Graf’s contemporary décor seamlessly blends period moldings and chandeliers with modern furniture. Chef Mathieu Pacaud has crafted a culinary haven here, reinterpreting classic French dishes with a modern twist, each bite a harmonious symphony of flavors.
The dining room itself is a testament to nature’s artistry. Two-tone marble, moldings, and pottery create a subtle yet elegant ambiance, resembling an internal garden. And the inspiration doesn’t stop there; Chef Julien Dumas is passionate about eco-friendly cuisine, showcasing his commitment through dishes like white asparagus, acacia, and smoked sardine. Alongside him, young Pastry Chef Jeanne Lecourt breathes new life into time-honored ingredients, redefining the meaning of classic desserts.
Classic Bistro Charm with a Global Touch
Benoit, as described by the legendary Alain Ducasse, is a testament to the enduring “art de vivre”. Just a stone’s throw from the Hôtel de Ville, this Michelin-starred brasserie, originally a neighborhood gem, has gained global recognition, boasting locations in New York and Tokyo. Its success lies in its masterful execution of classic bistro dishes, from a succulent slice of Chalosse blood sausage sautéed with two apples to golden turbot with tender carrots and its own jus. Step into a setting steeped in over a century of history, adorned with red leather banquettes, and savor the quintessential Parisian experience.
A Culinary Tapestry of Delicate Flavors and Unique Ambience
Monsieur George Hotel welcomes you to Galanga, a restaurant that embraces both sophistication and warmth. Start your journey in the elegant, exclusive-feeling bar, sipping on a carefully crafted cocktail before venturing to your table. The dining space itself is a masterpiece of design, featuring velvet-upholstered banquettes, green marble tables, and a lush verdant terrace. Chef Thomas Danigo masterfully blends delicate flavors with bold notes, creating dishes that are both memorable and delicious. Indulge in the intense taste of binchotan-grilled porcini or finish your meal with red plum infused with shiso grown on Parisian rooftops.
Enchanting Parisian Brasserie: A Symphony of History and Flavor
Imagine a magnificent cobbled courtyard, a sanctuary of Parisian charm, where time seems to stand still. This is the setting for a chic brasserie in the Marais, where history and elegance intertwine. The dining room, adorned with wooden beams, exposed stone, and marble tables, exudes an irresistible romanticism. As night descends, the room is bathed in the warm glow of candlelight, creating an intimate ambiance that is uniquely Parisian. Chef Carmine Cinque, born in Italy but a true Parisian at heart, brings his heritage to the table, showcasing dishes like fricassee of mushrooms à la carbonara and Milanese veal cutlet. For a truly private dining experience, venture into the Le Jardin dining room, an intimate space inspired by nature, perfect for a special occasion.
A Journey to Northern Italy: L’Assaggio
For a romantic Italian escapade, L’Assaggio within the walls of the Castille Paris Hotel is the perfect destination. Transport yourself to northern Italy, where timeless dishes are prepared with passion. Step into an inner patio adorned with frescoes and a fountain, and savor dishes like Piedmontese-style vitello tonnato and agnolotti di Lidia.
A Culinary Symphony: Wine, Food, and Art
At the Michelin-starred restaurant within Hotel de Crillon, the wine selection takes center stage, dictating the culinary journey. With over 2,300 labels in the cellar, every palate will be delighted. Chef Boris Campanella, drawing inspiration from his Sicilian and Savoyard roots, creates dishes that are perfectly paired by Sommelier Xavier Thuizat. The result is a harmonious symphony of flavors, each bite complementing the restaurant’s delicate and elegant décor.
Panoramic Views and Culinary Brilliance: Le Tout-Paris
Ascend to the seventh floor of the Cheval Blanc Paris Hotel and be greeted by Le Tout-Paris, a name that perfectly captures the essence of this restaurant. Breathtaking views of the Seine and the Left Bank unfold before you, offering a romantic panorama that stretches from Notre-Dame to the Eiffel Tower. The terrace, with its panoramic vistas, is the ideal setting for a memorable dinner under the Parisian sky. The contemporary décor, designed by Peter Marino, evokes the spirit of the city’s Art Deco bistros. In the kitchen, Arnaud Donckele celebrates the best of French ingredients, showcasing dishes like langoustines, oysters, and veal chops.
A Legacy of Culinary Excellence: Lucas Carton
Lucas Carton, housed in a building designed by architect Charpentier in 1839, boasts a rich history. Yet, this storied restaurant embraces the new trends of contemporary gastronomy. The dining room, adorned with sculpted maple wood panelling, bears witness to its rich history. Chef Hugo Bourny, bringing experience from renowned restaurants like La Vague d’Or, Anne-Sophie Pic, and Le Marsan, creates dishes that are both innovative and delicious. Experience his creative vision in the Camus artichoke prepared in a variety of textures.
Intimate Elegance: A Greek Culinary Masterpiece
Tucked away amidst the colonnades of the Palais-Royal, this Two Michelin Starred restaurant exudes an air of intimate elegance. Christophe Tollemer has crafted a décor that seamlessly blends contemporary furniture with unadorned materials and a soft, orange-hued palette. This warm, tranquil ambience is the perfect setting for the sun-drenched dishes created by Greek Chef Philip Chronopoulos. Trained at the Paul Bocuse school, Chronopoulos’s culinary artistry is evident in dishes like John Dory with saffron, salsify, and kaffir.
