Imagine yourself in Paris, gazing at the sun setting over the city’s iconic skyline from a rooftop bar. You sip a glass of wine or a refreshing cocktail, feeling the cool breeze on your skin. Paris is known for its world-class cuisine, stunning landmarks, and vibrant culture, and its rooftop bars and restaurants offer a unique way to experience it all.
Rooftop Bars with Breathtaking Views
Sequoia Rooftop, situated on the Kimpton St. Honore Paris Hotel, provides a breathtaking panorama of the Eiffel Tower and Palais Garnier. The terrace offers a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a selection of wines and cocktails alongside delectable appetizers like beetroot hummus, guacamole, and sushi. Be sure to note the minimum spending limit of €40 per person, which is easily met with an appetizer and a drink. We found Sequoia Rooftop to be one of the most enjoyable bars in Paris, offering a unique combination of stunning views, delicious food, and a calm ambiance.
Fine Dining with Panoramic Views
L’Oiseau Blanc elevates the Parisian dining experience to a whole new level. Located on the top floor of the opulent Peninsula hotel, this two-star Michelin restaurant boasts unrivaled views of the Eiffel Tower through its wall of windows. Dining at L’Oiseau Blanc is an unforgettable experience, especially during sunset as the city’s lights begin to twinkle. The impeccable service is expected at such a prestigious establishment. We indulged in the tasting menu, savoring each dish, from the black truffle carpaccio to the butternut tagliatelle, accompanied by fine wines. While this is the most expensive restaurant on our list, it’s worth every penny for foodies and those seeking an exceptional culinary journey in Paris. The restaurant’s name, L’Oiseau Blanc (The White Bird), pays homage to a French biplane that attempted the first transatlantic flight. A replica of the plane stands near the restaurant, offering a glimpse into aviation history.
Les Ombres: A Perfect View of the Eiffel Tower
Les Ombres, nestled on the top floor of the Musée du quai Branly, offers the best view of the Eiffel Tower from a restaurant. The glass-enclosed terrace provides unobstructed views for every table. Though there are a few outdoor seating options, the intense summer heat led us to enjoy the cool comfort of the indoor space. Les Ombres is a fine dining establishment serving French haute cuisine. Our lunch experience was delightful, with phenomenal food and the iconic Eiffel Tower as our backdrop. We imagine dinner, particularly during sunset, would be even more memorable, with the Eiffel Tower sparkling under the night sky.
Georges: A View with a Caveat
Georges, located on the top floor of the Centre Pompidou, is often cited as a great spot for dining with a view. The restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows offer a view of the Eiffel Tower and the cityscape. Unfortunately, our experience was less than ideal. The website’s dress code “elegantly” did little to deter guests from arriving in casual attire, creating a mixed dress code environment. The food was expensive and overpriced for its quality, and the service was slow and indifferent. We found that the view could be enjoyed for free by taking the elevators to the top floor of the Pompidou Centre.
Eiffel Tower Restaurants: Dining with a View
Madame Brasserie, located on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower, offers stunning views of the Trocadéro. Requesting a window seat ensures an unobstructed view of the Seine River and the Trocadéro. We opted for a 3-course lunch, savoring the fast and friendly service and the delicious food. Make a reservation in advance, as this is a popular spot on the Eiffel Tower. Your reservation grants access to the first floor, and for those seeking a higher vantage point, an additional Eiffel Tower ticket is required.
Le Jules Verne, a Michelin-starred restaurant on the second floor of the Eiffel Tower, offers breathtaking views of Paris, especially during sunset. We were unfortunately unable to secure a reservation, highlighting the high demand for this restaurant. Based on our experience, booking at least several months in advance is recommended.
Enjoy your Parisian adventure! These rooftop bars and restaurants offer unique opportunities to indulge in the city’s charm, savoring delicious food, and enjoying the breathtaking views that make Paris so enchanting. Remember to make reservations in advance, especially for the more popular establishments.
