Paris, the City of Love, is also a city of exceptional cuisine. From charming bistros to grand restaurants, there’s a culinary adventure waiting for you on every corner. This guide takes you on a journey through some of the most enchanting and delicious spots near the Eiffel Tower.
Charming Bistros and Haute Couture Charcuterie
Just steps away from the Eiffel Tower, a gourmet bistro with a Japanese Chef, Satoshi Horiuchi, promises a delightful culinary experience. The menu, which changes daily, is driven by the freshest ingredients available at the market. Imagine savoring crispy veal head with oyster vinaigrette, or indulging in a quasi roast veal with polenta cake. For a sweet finish, the baba au rhum with spiced syrup and light cream is a true masterpiece.
But that’s not all! Tucked away in the residential 7th arrondissement, a butcher who knows how to cook delights with haute couture charcuterie. Here, classic French dishes like pâté en croute and terrine are transformed into culinary works of art. And for those wanting to savor these exquisite flavors at home, a takeaway corner at the restaurant offers an array of delectable options.
Gastronomic Cruises on the Seine
Take a leisurely cruise along the Seine River and experience a unique blend of luxury and gastronomy. The Don Juan II, an elegant Art Deco yacht, sets sail from the foot of the Debilly footbridge, offering a captivating view of the Eiffel Tower. Inside, the yacht’s sumptuous woodwork and thick carpets create a luxurious ambiance.
Under the leadership of renowned chef Frédéric Anton of Le Pré Catelan, a 2.5-hour cruise becomes a feast for the senses. Indulge in Anton’s signature creations, like langoustine ravioli, roast venison with autumn truffle, and hot chocolate soufflé, all while witnessing the City of Light’s most beautiful monuments.
Alain Ducasse’s electric boat restaurant, moored directly in front of the Eiffel Tower, offers a serene and eco-friendly culinary experience. The boat gently glides along the Seine, offering a captivating view of Paris’ iconic landmarks. As you enjoy a meal crafted by a skilled brigade, you’ll discover a kitchen that embodies the finest French craftsmanship.
From Basque-Béarnais to Breton Delights
Stéphane Jégo’s restaurant embodies the chef’s own personality – sincere and strong. His menu is a vibrant fusion of Breton and Basque-Béarnais influences, reflecting his diverse culinary journey. Enjoy fresh seafood, the hallmark of his Breton heritage, alongside Basque-Béarnais specialties. Game in season, fish, pork, lamb, and mushrooms all find their way onto the menu, alongside the chef’s signature fluffy rice pudding.
With its lively and friendly atmosphere, the restaurant is a popular destination, always buzzing with energy. A great time is guaranteed for everyone who walks through its doors.
Culinary Adventures High Above the City
For a truly unforgettable dining experience, venture up to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower. The restaurant, accessible by private elevator, offers breathtaking views of Paris. Savor cod with fried garlic and fresh coriander, or a succulent fillet of lamb in its licorice-flavored jus. Remember to reserve well in advance and request a table by the bay windows for an unparalleled view of the City of Lights.
The Musée Quai Branly – Jacques Chirac boasts a stunning glass-sided restaurant designed by Jean Nouvel, offering breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower. The menu, crafted by Alain Ducasse and executed by his talented collaborator Alexandre Sempere, showcases modern seasonal cuisine with Mediterranean influences. Don’t miss the exquisite desserts by pastry chef Jérémy Schotte, like the farm-fresh skyr mousse with Buddha’s hand and a lemon leaf granita.
Art Deco Elegance and International Flavors
Nestled within the Palais de Tokyo, a restaurant with an Art Deco room adorned in shades of gray, green, and gold, offers a sophisticated and stylish dining experience. Its terrace overlooking the Seine and the Eiffel Tower provides a breathtaking backdrop for a delicious meal.
Just a short distance from the Champ-de-Mars, a small but intimate restaurant run by Kwen Liew and Ryunosuke Naito offers a culinary fusion unlike any other. Naito, with his Japanese heritage, has trained in some of Paris’ most prestigious kitchens, while Liew, of Malaysian descent, brings a world of culinary experience from Sydney, Bangkok, Singapore, and the South of France. Together, they create market-driven cuisine with intense flavors, breathing new life into French culinary traditions.
Conclusion
From charming bistros to grand restaurants, from leisurely cruises to breathtaking views, Paris offers a diverse and delicious culinary landscape. These restaurants, each unique in their own way, showcase the city’s dedication to fine dining and innovative cuisine. So, on your next visit to Paris, be sure to explore these hidden gems and discover the magic of Parisian gastronomy.
