When I think of Paris, my mind immediately drifts to the image of cobblestone streets, the shimmering Seine River, and of course, the Eiffel Tower majestically standing tall against the horizon. But what truly defines Paris for me is its culinary heritage—a mix of tradition, innovation, and passion that turns every meal into a work of art. My recent trip to Paris was a gastronomic pilgrimage, where I sought out six different dining experiences, each offering something unique.
1. Le Comptoir du Relais
Location: 9 Carrefour de l’Odéon, 75006 Paris, France
Nearby Attractions: Luxembourg Gardens, Saint-Sulpice Church
Reservation: TheFork or directly through their website
Tucked away in the bustling Saint-Germain-des-Prés district, Le Comptoir du Relais is a bistro that consistently ranks among the best in Paris. It’s a small, cozy spot with an outdoor terrace that’s perfect for people-watching, especially in the spring and summer months.
The interior exudes Parisian charm with its vintage décor, wooden furniture, and red leather banquettes. The menu is quintessentially French, featuring dishes that are hearty and rich, reflective of traditional French bistro fare.
I started my meal with a classic foie gras terrine—a creamy, indulgent dish that was perfectly paired with fig jam and toasted brioche. The richness of the foie gras was balanced by the sweetness of the jam, creating a harmony of flavors that left me craving more. For the main course, I opted for the duck confit. This dish was a revelation—crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, served with golden roasted potatoes and a side of sautéed green beans. Each bite was an explosion of flavor, and I could taste the quality of the ingredients used.
For dessert, I couldn’t resist the crème brûlée. The moment I cracked through the caramelized sugar top and dipped into the smooth, vanilla-infused custard, I knew I had made the right choice. It was a perfect end to a perfect meal.
Prices at Le Comptoir du Relais are quite reasonable considering the quality of food and the prime location. A meal here would typically set you back around €40-€60 per person, depending on your choice of dishes and drinks.
Recommendation: 9/10 – Highly recommended for those looking to experience traditional French bistro dining at its finest. Be sure to make a reservation well in advance, as this place fills up quickly.
Nearby Attractions: After your meal, take a leisurely stroll through the Luxembourg Gardens, just a few minutes’ walk away. The gardens are a beautiful spot to relax and enjoy the Parisian atmosphere. Alternatively, visit the nearby Saint-Sulpice Church, an architectural marvel that also houses one of the most famous organs in the world.
2. Septime
Location: 80 Rue de Charonne, 75011 Paris, France
Nearby Attractions: Père Lachaise Cemetery, Bastille
Reservation: Required; book through their website or TheFork
Septime is a name that’s synonymous with modern French cuisine. This Michelin-starred restaurant, located in the 11th arrondissement, is known for its creative, seasonal dishes and its warm, inviting atmosphere. The dining room is minimalist yet stylish, with wooden tables, industrial lighting, and an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs at work.
The menu at Septime is ever-changing, depending on what’s in season, which makes every visit a new experience. During my visit, I was treated to a five-course tasting menu that showcased the best of what Septime has to offer. The meal began with an amuse-bouche of smoked eel with apple and horseradish, a delightful combination of smoky, sweet, and spicy flavors that awakened my palate.
Next came the roasted cauliflower with hazelnuts and truffle, a dish that perfectly highlighted the earthy flavors of the truffle against the nuttiness of the hazelnuts and the slight bitterness of the cauliflower. The seared sea bass that followed was cooked to perfection, served with a side of fennel and citrus that added a refreshing contrast to the richness of the fish.
The main course was a slow-cooked lamb shoulder, tender and succulent, paired with a velvety parsnip purée and roasted root vegetables. The flavors were deep and comforting, exactly what you’d expect from a Michelin-starred establishment.
Finally, dessert was a pear and almond tart with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The tart was light, buttery, and not overly sweet, providing a satisfying end to the meal.
Prices at Septime are on the higher side, as expected for a Michelin-starred restaurant. The tasting menu costs around €90-€120 per person, but it’s worth every penny for the culinary experience you’ll receive.
Recommendation: 10/10 – An absolute must-visit for food enthusiasts. Septime’s reputation is well-deserved, and the dining experience here is exceptional. Make sure to book well in advance, as reservations are notoriously difficult to secure.
Nearby Attractions: After dining at Septime, consider visiting the Père Lachaise Cemetery, the final resting place of many famous figures, including Oscar Wilde and Jim Morrison. If you prefer something livelier, the Bastille area is nearby, offering a vibrant nightlife scene and plenty of bars to continue your evening.
3. L’Avenue
Location: 41 Avenue Montaigne, 75008 Paris, France
Nearby Attractions: Champs-Élysées, Eiffel Tower
Reservation: Available through TheFork or directly via phone
L’Avenue is a chic and trendy restaurant located on the prestigious Avenue Montaigne, known for its fashion boutiques and close proximity to the Champs-Élysées. The restaurant itself is a favorite among celebrities, fashionistas, and tourists alike, thanks to its stylish interior, excellent service, and prime location.
The menu at L’Avenue is a mix of French and international cuisine, with a variety of options ranging from sushi to classic French dishes. I started my meal with a tuna tartare, served with avocado and a tangy soy dressing. The fish was fresh and flavorful, and the combination of textures made it a delightful appetizer.
For my main course, I chose the truffle pasta, a dish that’s become somewhat of a signature at L’Avenue. The pasta was perfectly al dente, coated in a creamy truffle sauce that was rich without being overwhelming. The truffles added an earthy depth to the dish, making it an indulgent treat.
To finish, I opted for the chocolate fondant, a decadent dessert with a molten center that oozed out as soon as I cut into it. Paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it was the perfect way to end the meal.
Prices at L’Avenue are reflective of its location and clientele, with main courses ranging from €25-€60. While it’s on the pricier side, the combination of excellent food, ambiance, and people-watching opportunities makes it worth the splurge.
Recommendation: 8/10 – L’Avenue is a great spot if you’re looking for a trendy, upscale dining experience in the heart of Paris. The food is consistently good, and the atmosphere is lively, especially during Fashion Week.
Nearby Attractions: L’Avenue is just a short walk from the Champs-Élysées, where you can explore luxury shops or take in the view from the Arc de Triomphe. The Eiffel Tower is also nearby, and I recommend heading there for a post-dinner stroll along the Seine, where you can watch the tower light up as night falls.
4. Le Jules Verne
Location: Eiffel Tower, Avenue Gustave Eiffel, 75007 Paris, France
Nearby Attractions: Eiffel Tower, Trocadéro Gardens
Reservation: Required; book through TheFork or their official website
Dining at Le Jules Verne is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Located on the second floor of the Eiffel Tower, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers stunning views of Paris alongside a refined menu that highlights the best of French haute cuisine. The restaurant is elegantly decorated with floor-to-ceiling windows that provide panoramic views of the city.
I opted for the tasting menu, which offered a selection of Le Jules Verne’s most celebrated dishes. The meal began with an amuse-bouche of lobster bisque, rich and velvety, with a subtle hint of cognac. This was followed by pan-seared foie gras with fig compote, a dish that was as indulgent as it was delicious.
The main course was a perfectly cooked beef filet with truffle jus, served alongside a creamy potato purée and seasonal vegetables. The beef was tender, flavorful, and cooked to perfection, while the truffle jus added an earthy richness that elevated the dish.
For dessert, I enjoyed the chocolate soufflé with a side of pistachio ice cream. The soufflé was light and airy, with a deep chocolate flavor that was beautifully complemented by the nutty ice cream.
Prices at Le Jules Verne are in line with its
Michelin-starred status and unique location. A tasting menu will set you back around €190-€230 per person, but the combination of exquisite food and unparalleled views makes it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Recommendation: 10/10 – Dining at Le Jules Verne is an unforgettable experience that combines exceptional cuisine with one of the most iconic views in the world. If you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion, this is the place to do it.
Nearby Attractions: Since you’re already at the Eiffel Tower, I recommend taking some time to explore the tower itself after your meal. You can also walk over to the Trocadéro Gardens for more breathtaking views of the tower, especially at sunset.
5. Le Relais de l’Entrecôte
Location: 15 Rue Marbeuf, 75008 Paris, France
Nearby Attractions: Champs-Élysées, Grand Palais
Reservation: Not accepted; walk-ins only
Le Relais de l’Entrecôte is a Parisian institution, famous for serving just one main dish: steak frites. The concept is simple—there’s no menu to choose from. You’re served a green salad with walnuts as a starter, followed by steak with their secret sauce and a generous portion of crispy fries.
Despite its simplicity, the quality of the food is exceptional. The steak is cooked to your liking, and the sauce—rich, buttery, and slightly tangy—is what makes the dish truly special. The fries are golden and crispy, perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
For dessert, you can choose from a selection of traditional French pastries. I opted for the profiteroles, filled with vanilla ice cream and topped with warm chocolate sauce. They were light, airy, and the perfect way to end the meal.
Prices at Le Relais de l’Entrecôte are reasonable, especially for the quality of the food and the central location. Expect to pay around €30-€40 per person, which includes the salad, steak frites, and dessert.
Recommendation: 8/10 – Le Relais de l’Entrecôte is perfect for those looking for a straightforward, no-frills meal in a classic Parisian setting. The food is consistently good, and the bustling atmosphere adds to the charm. Be prepared to wait, as they don’t take reservations, and the line can get long.
Nearby Attractions: After your meal, take a walk along the Champs-Élysées to enjoy the shops and historic landmarks. The Grand Palais is also nearby, where you can explore its stunning architecture and any exhibitions that might be on display.
6. Breizh Café
Location: 109 Rue Vieille du Temple, 75003 Paris, France
Nearby Attractions: Le Marais, Picasso Museum
Reservation: Available through TheFork or directly on their website
No trip to Paris is complete without indulging in some crepes, and Breizh Café is the place to do it. Located in the trendy Le Marais district, this charming café specializes in Breton-style galettes and crepes, made with organic ingredients and served with a variety of fillings.
I started with a savory galette, the Complet, filled with ham, cheese, and a perfectly cooked egg. The buckwheat crepe was crispy on the edges and soft in the center, with a slightly nutty flavor that complemented the rich filling.
For dessert, I chose a classic crepe with salted butter caramel. The crepe was thin and delicate, with a generous drizzle of homemade caramel that was sweet, salty, and utterly delicious.
Prices at Breizh Café are very reasonable, with most galettes and crepes priced between €8-€15. It’s a great option for a casual meal or a sweet treat while exploring the city.
Recommendation: 9/10 – Breizh Café offers some of the best crepes in Paris, with high-quality ingredients and a cozy atmosphere. It’s a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth or a love of traditional French cuisine.
Nearby Attractions: Breizh Café is located in the heart of Le Marais, one of Paris’s most historic and vibrant neighborhoods. After your meal, take some time to explore the narrow streets, boutique shops, and art galleries. The Picasso Museum is also nearby, housing one of the largest collections of Picasso’s works in the world.
Planning Your Parisian Food Adventure
When exploring Paris’s food scene, it’s essential to plan your itinerary carefully to make the most of your dining experiences. Here are some tips to help you navigate the city’s culinary landscape:
1. Make Reservations: Paris is a popular destination, and its restaurants can fill up quickly, especially the Michelin-starred ones. Make reservations well in advance to secure your spot.
2. Explore Different Neighborhoods: Each arrondissement in Paris has its unique charm and culinary specialties. Don’t limit yourself to one area; explore different neighborhoods to experience a variety of flavors and atmospheres.
3. Balance Fine Dining with Casual Eats: Paris offers everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to casual bistros and street food. Mix and match to experience the full spectrum of Parisian cuisine.
4. Don’t Forget the Street Food: While Paris is known for its high-end dining, don’t miss out on the street food scene. Grab a crepe from a street vendor or a falafel from the famous L’As du Fallafel in Le Marais.
5. Stay Safe with Food Choices: Paris is generally very safe when it comes to food, but it’s always a good idea to stick to places that are busy and have good reviews. When in doubt, ask locals for recommendations.
Paris is a city that tantalizes all the senses, but none more so than taste. From cozy bistros to Michelin-starred restaurants, each meal is an opportunity to savor the artistry and tradition that define French cuisine. As I wandered through the city, each bite told a story—a story of Paris’s rich history, its passion for food, and its dedication to excellence. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to enjoy a good meal, Paris has something for everyone.
