Paris, the City of Light, is not only a haven for art and culture but also an epicurean paradise. As a seasoned traveler and food enthusiast, my recent trip to Paris was all about indulging in the finest French cuisine. From charming bistros to exquisite patisseries, each meal was an experience that tantalized my taste buds and left a lasting impression.
1. Le Comptoir du Relais
Location: 9 Carrefour de l’Odéon, 75006 Paris
Price Range: €25-€50 per person
Discounts: 10% discount available on select days when booking through TheFork
Reservation Platform: TheFork, OpenTable
Nearby Attractions: Luxembourg Gardens, Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Le Comptoir du Relais is a quintessential Parisian bistro nestled in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. The moment I stepped into this cozy establishment, I knew I was in for a treat. The menu, though not extensive, offered a curated selection of classic French dishes. I opted for the duck confit, a dish that exemplifies traditional French cuisine. The duck was cooked to perfection—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and served with a side of roasted potatoes and a light salad. The ambiance, with its warm lighting and wooden interiors, added to the charm of the dining experience.
After the meal, I strolled through the nearby Luxembourg Gardens, soaking in the serene atmosphere. Le Comptoir du Relais is an absolute must-visit, especially if you’re looking to combine a culinary adventure with a bit of Parisian history.
Recommendation: 4.5/5
2. L’Ambroisie
Location: 9 Place des Vosges, 75004 Paris
Price Range: €120-€200 per person
Discounts: Occasional offers available on their official website
Reservation Platform: Direct reservation through their website
Nearby Attractions: Place des Vosges, Le Marais District
For a taste of haute cuisine, L’Ambroisie is the place to be. Located in the historic Place des Vosges, this Michelin three-starred restaurant offers an unparalleled dining experience. The setting is nothing short of regal, with its elegant décor and impeccable service. I decided to go all out and ordered the lobster fricassee, a dish that is as luxurious as it sounds. The lobster was succulent, bathed in a rich butter sauce, and accompanied by delicate vegetable purées. Every bite was an explosion of flavors, showcasing the chef’s mastery in balancing richness with subtlety.
Though the meal was undoubtedly expensive, it was worth every euro. After dining, I wandered around the beautiful Place des Vosges, one of Paris’s oldest and most picturesque squares. L’Ambroisie is perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to the very best of French fine dining.
Recommendation: 5/5
3. Du Pain et des Idées
Location: 34 Rue Yves Toudic, 75010 Paris
Price Range: €5-€10 per pastry
Discounts: No discounts available, but the pastries are reasonably priced
Reservation Platform: No reservations needed
Nearby Attractions: Canal Saint-Martin, République
No trip to Paris is complete without indulging in the city’s legendary pastries, and Du Pain et des Idées is a bakery that lives up to the hype. Located near the trendy Canal Saint-Martin, this artisanal boulangerie is famous for its escargot pastries. I tried the pistachio and chocolate escargot, a spiral of flaky, buttery pastry filled with a decadent pistachio and chocolate filling. It was heavenly—crispy on the outside, soft and flavorful on the inside. The bakery itself has a rustic charm, with its antique wooden shelves and large glass windows that let in plenty of natural light.
After grabbing a few more pastries for the road, I took a leisurely walk along the Canal Saint-Martin, enjoying the lively atmosphere. Du Pain et des Idées is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth, and its central location makes it a convenient stop during a day of sightseeing.
Recommendation: 5/5
4. Chez Janou
Location: 2 Rue Roger Verlomme, 75003 Paris
Price Range: €20-€40 per person
Discounts: 10% discount with a reservation through TheFork
Reservation Platform: TheFork, TripAdvisor
Nearby Attractions: Picasso Museum, Place des Vosges
Tucked away in a quiet corner of Le Marais, Chez Janou is a lively bistro that offers a quintessentially French dining experience. The restaurant is known for its Provencal cuisine and its extensive selection of pastis, a French anise-flavored spirit. I started with a traditional dish of escargots, which were served piping hot in a garlicky butter sauce. For the main course, I had the rabbit stew, which was hearty and full of flavor, served with creamy mashed potatoes. The portions were generous, and the food was rich without being overwhelming.
The atmosphere at Chez Janou is warm and convivial, making it a great spot for both solo diners and groups. After the meal, I visited the nearby Picasso Museum, which houses an impressive collection of the artist’s works. Chez Janou is an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a relaxed meal in one of Paris’s most charming neighborhoods.
Recommendation: 4/5
5. L’As du Fallafel
Location: 34 Rue des Rosiers, 75004 Paris
Price Range: €7-€12 per meal
Discounts: No discounts, but very affordable
Reservation Platform: No reservations needed
Nearby Attractions: Le Marais District, Jewish Quarter
L’As du Fallafel is not your typical Parisian restaurant, but it’s a culinary landmark in its own right. Located in the heart of the Jewish Quarter in Le Marais, this bustling eatery is famous for its falafel sandwiches. The line outside can be daunting, but trust me, it’s worth the wait. I ordered the classic falafel pita, which was overflowing with crispy falafel balls, tangy pickles, fresh vegetables, and a generous drizzle of tahini sauce. The flavors were bold and vibrant, a perfect balance of textures and tastes.
After my meal, I explored the surrounding streets of Le Marais, one of Paris’s most eclectic and historic districts. L’As du Fallafel is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience a different side of Parisian cuisine, and its low prices make it a great option for budget travelers.
Recommendation: 4.5/5
6. Le Relais de l’Entrecôte
Location: 20 Rue Saint-Benoît, 75006 Paris
Price Range: €25-€40 per person
Discounts: No discounts available
Reservation Platform: No reservations; first-come, first-served
Nearby Attractions: Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Pont des Arts
Le Relais de l’Entrecôte is a Parisian institution, known for its unique dining concept. The menu is simple: steak frites, served with a secret sauce. When you sit down, the only choice you have to make is how you want your steak cooked. I ordered mine medium-rare, and it arrived perfectly cooked, tender, and juicy, accompanied by a mountain of crispy, golden fries. The secret sauce is what makes this dish so special—it’s creamy, tangy, and utterly addictive.
The restaurant doesn’t take reservations, so there’s usually a line, but the service is fast, and the wait is never too long. After my meal, I took a walk to the nearby Pont des Arts, a pedestrian bridge known for its romantic views of the Seine River. Le Relais de l’Entrecôte is a must-visit for steak lovers, and its central location makes it easy to include in any Paris itinerary.
Recommendation: 4/5
Paris is a city that offers endless culinary delights, from high-end dining to humble street food. Each of these six food destinations provided a unique experience that highlighted the diversity and richness of French cuisine. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, I highly recommend adding these spots to your Paris itinerary.
