Updated: December 2023
Want to know where I have consumed the best food in Paris over the years? Look no further because today I am going to outline some of my favorite Parisian picks!
Paris is said to have over 40,000 options for places, there is sure to be something for everyone.
The Best Food in Paris:
Breakfast/Coffee
Les Deux Magots: This place has been open since 1885 and is an absolute must if only for a cup of coffee or tea. The morning menu is served from 7:30 am to noon and features among other things, your choice of eggs, pastries, fresh fruit, or an assortment of bread. Sitting outside will give you a front-row seat to watch the world go by. Don’t miss this stop as it is one of the oldest cafes in Paris!
Saint Pearl (coffee/brunch): Our most recent Airbnb was located right above this itsy coffee shop. This meant each day started with a nice pick me up. The place is usually always packed but the brunch is worth the crowd. Check out their Instagram page for some seriously beautiful plates of food.
Raspail Market: Grab some fresh fruit for the week and enjoy it for breakfast to mix things up during your stay. There is also a gentleman who makes potato galletes perfect for snacking while exploring the stands.
Eric Kayser: a string of popular boulangeries in Paris, Eric Kayser has a great croissant and endless pastry options!
Lunch
Cafe de Flore: A Parisian institution that comes at a price. We typically stop here for a mid-day coffee or a salad on the patio. The historic figures who would frequent the cafe include Picasso and Hemingway and the place certainly gives off an intellectual vibe!
Au Pied de Cochon: This 24/7 continuous service establishment found its way onto the lunch list but truly is great any time of the day.
L’escargot Montorgueil: You know you have arrived when you see the large golden snail above the entrance to this cozy spot. You must try the escargot and frog legs here! We were here during the springtime and were able to enjoy a nice glass of wine outside!
Breizh Café Abbesses: after visiting the hilly neighborhood surrounding Sacré Coeur, be sure to stop in here for a buckwheat crepe. The selection includes savory and sweet and they are both beautiful and delicious.
honorable mention: Finally, Cafe St. Germain is one of our favorite spots to sip some wine and enjoy a bit of charcuterie while people-watching.
Dinner
Le Chateaubriand: If you love a hip fine dining spot and amazing food this is your place! You should know, that there are no menus here so come with an open mind. Prepare to enjoy the incredible flavors set in front of you!
La Buvette: A small wine bar serving up small shareable plates. Without a true kitchen, the bar serves up a charcuterie-style menu. The perfect spot for a glass of wine and a small bite before dinner. Know that there are only around 5 tables and the place fills up fast. The wine here was exceptional as well and featured smaller producers.
Tour d’argent: At the time of writing, the restaurant is undergoing renovations but is slated to reopen in March 2023. During our visit, we had an incredible meal complete with the famous pressed duck. Not only is the duck delicious, but diners also receive a numbered postcard with the serial number of their duck printed on it. It is also said that is the restaurant that inspired the children’s movie, Ratatouille.
Arpege: Currently ranked #23 on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list, this 3-star Michelin Restaurant allows vegetables to shine. The dining area is beautiful and the ever-changing menu will not disappoint. Alain Passard’s Arpege located near the Musée Rodin books months out so be sure to plan ahead. It is pricey but worth it, save this dinner for a special night out.
Le Jules Verne (located on the 2nd floor of the Eiffel Tower): One way to go to the top of the Eiffel Tower without the lines is to book a table at Le Jules Verne. While the views are astonishing, the tasting menu appears as a work of art just the same.
Early June: a cute and hip spot featuring traveling chefs is a fun spin on dining in Paris. During our December 2023 visit, we had quite a meal!
La Boissonerie: One of my favorite dinner spots while visiting Paris. The beautifully tiled facade is just so inviting. The dishes here will not disappoint and neither will their wine list!
Dinner (Continued)
L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon: Located on the ground floor level of Hôtel du Pont Royal in Saint Germain which also is a great place to stay! This fun spot features an open kitchen offering a nice view behind the scenes. This tasting menu is exciting and the plates were so colorful with great flavor and texture behind each creation.
Robert et Louise: One of my favorite meals on my most recent trip to Paris in 2022. This quaint family-run spot is a great go-to for a delicious meal. The meat is prepared over a wood fire and is cooked perfectly.
Bistrot d’henri: We happened to stumble upon this place on our last visit. The menu is written out on a chalkboard, we did love everything we ate here which included several typical French dishes. We did not need a reservation but they do have the option to book ahead on their website.
Frenchie: An intimate restaurant with an incredible tasting menu. I would highly recommend the wine pairings as well if you partake, incredible! The menu was unique and innovative, and the dishes and dining area were both beautiful!
Yard: Not only does Yard offer an impressive selection of natural wines, their dishes celebrate seasonal produce and the producers behind them. Every dish was amazing and the staff were also incredibly kind and knowledgeable.
Picnic
Finally, now that you have experienced some of the wonderful restaurants Paris has to offer, how about a picnic? Be sure to check out my post on how to plan the perfect Parisian picnic. The post walks you through some great locations where you can enjoy a nice afternoon and the offerings of the local markets!