Welcome to the culinary wonderland of Paris! This iconic city is renowned for its blend of history, culture, fashion, and of course, gastronomy. From the cobblestone streets of Montmartre to the elegant boulevards of the Champs-Élysées, Paris attracts travellers with promises of glamorous experiences, good hospitality, breathtaking sights, and of course, mouthwatering cuisine.
In a city where every corner seems to have a charming café or a Michelin-starred restaurant, navigating the culinary landscape can be exhausting. Do not worry, we have meticulously curated a list of 30 must-try places that promise to elevate your dining experience to new heights. Whether you're craving a croissant-filled breakfast, a lunch on a sunny terrace, or an elegant dinner overlooking the twinkling lights of the Eiffel Tower, you will be covered in Paris.
Best Breakfast Places in Paris
Cedric Grolet Opera
Discover the floral universe of the famous pastry chef Cedric Grolet at his first bakery-pastry shop. Awarded as the best Pastry Chef of the World in 2018 by the critics, Grolet creates the most instagrammable pastries, like desserts looking like the fruits from which they are made. Experience his culinary mastery firsthand at his Opéra location, where breakfast offerings include viennoiserie, avocado toast, and Cedric's signature omelet.
Le Café Marly
You can actually start your day off right at an iconic spot of Paris - under the arcades of the Louvre. Seamlessly blending culture and luxury, this unique spot offers a picturesque setting overlooking the museum's iconic pyramid. Either choose the outdoor sitting and enjoy a breakfast at the Louvre Museum, or enjoy indoor sitting with its classic woodwork and elegant ambiance.
Carette
Offering Parisian elegance and historic tea room experience, Carette is located just at the vibrant Place du Trocadéro. When in Paris, hot chocolate and cream is a must-drink, and Carette is one of the best locations offering this experience. Indulge in a selection of breakfast options while savoring this iconic beverage, whipped to perfection and crowned with a cloud-like layer of creaminess that beautifully complements the rich chocolate flavor.
For those seeking a healthy start to the day, Wild & The Moon offers a sanctuary of cold-pressed juices enriched with superfoods. With multiple locations across Paris, this place offers an array of nourishing breakfast options, including wholesome super bowls, fresh salads, and delectable overnight oats – all proudly vegan, for the well-being of both you and the planet.
The Hardware Société
The Australian charm meets the Parisian charm at The Hardware Société. Located at the magnificent Sacré Coeur, this breakfast restaurant is very popular among its visitors and it has a reason. The menu brings fried brioche, baked eggs with baguette, tuna millefeuille and more together. Don’t forget to check out their merchandise selection, featuring their book „No Eggs on Toast'' as well as tote bags, for a memorable souvenir of your visit.
Le Moulin de la Vierge
This historic bakery with Art Nouveau décor is the perfect combination of authentic atmosphere and desserts. They bake traditional baguettes in a wood-fired oven using traditional methods. Behind the glass display, this establishment offers an array of traditional delights including millefeuilles, fruit tarts, and chocolate eclairs.
Restaurant CoCo
Elevate your weekend brunch experience at CoCo, located at Palais Garnier Opera House, in an elegant setting. With its bold design and sophisticated ambiance, CoCo offers a feast for the senses. The diverse brunch menu features oyster, burger, avocado toast, an array of eggs, pancakes, french toast and much more, all served in style.
Stohrer
The oldest, and arguably one of the finest, patisserie in Paris. Founded by King Louis XV’s pastry chef Nicolas Shohrer in 1730, this place is listed as a historical site and visitors of Paris make a stop here for its sweet and savory delicacies. Even though there is no sitting available, this exceptional patisserie is a chance to savor centuries-old recipes passed down through generations.
Hollybelly
Fancy a modern breakfast delights in a vibrant, family-owned setting? Nestled in an industrial-chic setting, this lively restaurant offers an array of locally sourced and seasonally inspired breakfast options. From pancakes to classic egg dishes and fresh beverages, Hollybelly has you covered.
Best Lunch Places in Paris
L’Avenue Paris
This upscale bistro epitomizing classic French cuisine is a true hit spot in Paris. Situated in the heart of the city, its inviting outdoor terrace offers a setting for people-watching. With a reputation for good service and French food, L'Avenue promises a culinary experience that seamlessly blends sophistication with traditional French charm.
Annapurna
Paris welcomed its first Indian restaurant in 1967, and it has remained a cornerstone of culinary excellence. Translating to "perfect food" in ancient Indian, Annapurna takes guests to the heart of Northern India with its classical and refined dishes. Step into an elegant English club atmosphere and enjoy the rich flavors of authentic Indian cuisine. As you dine, you can watch the tandoor, where bread and grills are prepared in a glass-enclosed room.
Restaurant DIEP
For the ones craving the finest Chinese food for lunch in Paris, the place to go is Restaurant DIEP. Close to Champs-Élysées, the place has a very chic ambience. With its diverse menu, DIEP offers a fusion of flavors from house specialty Beijing duck to Thai and Vietnamese delicacies. Recommended dishes are steamed dumplings, spicy beef and Dim Sum.
Perruche is like a retreat in the South of France. Here, the sophistication of Parisian joy of living meets the easygoing charm of Mediterranean life, creating a sanctuary for unforgettable dining experiences in a unique setting. With its garden design and breathtaking views of Paris, Perruche is located on the top floor of Printemps Haussmann, invites guests to immerse themselves in beauty and tranquillity.
Ralph’s Restaurant
At Ralph's Restaurant, you can enjoy the essence of American cuisine, from Maryland-style crab cakes to New York cheesecake. Conceived by Ralph Lauren himself, this restaurant embodies his vision of offering the finest dining experience in Paris within its class. With its elegant and romantic ambiance, Ralph's Restaurant invites guests at Boulevard Saint-Germain.
Mao Dumpling Bar
This is where you can find the Chinese traditions in the middle of Paris. Mao serves up mouthwatering dumplings and sides in a vibrant atmosphere blended with hip-hop vibes. It’s a true neighbourhood treasure, and perfect for a midday stop.
Dumbo
“Quality burger joint for all“ said Dumbo. It’s a destination for quality burgers in Paris. The team is committed to excellence shines through in every bite, as they use fresh, superior-grade ingredients, responsibly and locally sourced. They have meat and vegetarian burger options, both reflecting the spirit.
Girafe Restaurant
While in Paris, why not enjoy a lunch with a breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower? Girafe offers exactly that, as a gourmet seafood restaurant with a terrace overlooking the iconic landmark. Its cozy yet elegant decor, characterized by cream benches and marble accents, strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and opulence. At Girafe, the menu showcases the freshest offerings from the sea, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience.
Monsieur Bleu
Indulge in a weekend tradition at Monsieur Bleu, where a 100% homemade brunch awaits guests. Set in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere with a stunning view of the Eiffel Tower, this experience promises to delight everyone. The menu has a diverse selection of brunch favorites, including hot pastries, an array of egg dishes, truffle pasta gratin, burgers or fresh salads, homemade granola, pancakes, and French toast.
LouLou
Joy of living meets elegance, just at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs. Loulou, in tune with the seasons, offers dishes from the French and Italian Riviera alongside timeless classics. Their meticulous selection of quality local ingredients from southern France, Italy, and Sicily reflects a journey through diverse regions, ensuring an authentic culinary experience.
Best Dinner Places in Paris
Gigi Rigolatto
Gigi Rigolatto embodies a lifestyle, specifically that of Milan. Located in the prestigious Golden Triangle, with a view of the Eiffel Tower and the Théâtre des Champs Elysées nearby, Gigi introduces a touch of Italy to one of Paris' most esteemed neighbourhoods. Immerse yourself in authentic Italian flavors crafted from the finest ingredients, all within Gigi's refined setting. As night falls, Gigi comes alive with vibrant entertainment, ensuring each dinner is a memorable occasion.
Hôtel Costes Restaurant
The cozy dining rooms, a renowned 5-star chimney, and an Italian-style terrace covered by Parisians. At the Hôtel Costes Restaurant, Jean-Louis Costes' menu features his favorite dishes, blending traditional gastronomy with contemporary flair for a resounding success. Discover these "signature" dishes, from asparagus to marinated beef, accompanied by DJ sets for a glamorous dining experience.
Matsuhisa
Located in Raffles Paris, Matsuhisa offers an exquisite dining experience with the iconic Japanese Chef Nobu Matsuhisa. At Matsuhisa Paris, sushi masters craft a contemporary Japanese cuisine infused with Peruvian influences, a fusion beloved by Nobu himself. This gastronomic blend of Asian and Latin American flavors reflects a harmonious encounter between two cultures, expertly curated for an unforgettable dining experience.
Mūn Paris offers a transcendent dining experience, merging Asian mystique with Parisian elegance. In a luxurious atmosphere, enjoy comfort alongside breathtaking views of the Champs Élysées. This modern-day sanctuary invites you to savor an Asian fine dining, harmonizing with Parisian charm for a truly unique encounter. Around the mains, choose from delicate signature appetizers including Tuna Tataki and Salmon Sashimi, Dim Sum, and desserts such as our Matcha Green Tea Mochi and Coconut- and Vanilla-infused mango rice.
BigLove
The fourth Italian establishment from the Big Mamma group boasts a warm atmosphere. You can anticipate a new menu each month, now exclusively vegetarian and bringing best seasonal products directly from their producers. Upon entering through its imposing glass door, you'll enjoy a cozy evening of dining here.
Le Piaf
Named after the iconic Edith Piaf, Le Piaf mesmerizes not only with its ambiance and entertainment but also with its culinary excellence. Celebrating the timeless classics of French gastronomy, the menu features delicacies like foie gras, blinis, caviar, cod loin fillet, and duck breast. Bringing the nostalgia of legendary Parisian evenings, Le Piaf stands out with its vibrant atmosphere and rhythmic piano melodies.
Le Relais de l’Entrecôte
The Relais de l’Entrecôte defines the essence of a Parisian bistro: refined, elegant, and impeccably managed. For decades, its walnut salad, tender sirloin steak with signature sauce, and golden thin-cut French fries have been an enduring success. The warm ambiance, characterized by wood panelling, mirrors, and vintage posters, is complemented by efficient yet friendly service that upholds the company's values.
Kong
Nestled beneath a glass dome within a Philippe Starck-designed space, this venue serves up Asian fusion cuisine and ambiance. Situated on the 5th floor of a Haussmann building, every window provides a unique view, from the Pont Neuf to iconic architectural landmarks. KONG offers a culinary fusion experience, harmonizing French elegance with Japanese exoticism.
Dar Mima
Located on the roof of Arab World Institute, Dar Mima is an exceptional restaurant offering Arab hospitality in a beautiful setting created by the architect Laura Gonzalez. Fatima, mother of one of the creators of Dar Mima, generously shares her recipes including her bread, Zaalouk salad, pastries and couscous. From man'ouché to fattouche, from pastilla to tagine, Dar Mima's cuisine is a delightful fusion of oriental culinary influences, all prepared over a wood fire.
Matignon Paris
Nestled just steps away from the Champs‐Elysées, Le Matignon club is a must-experience. Offering an atmosphere with chic decor designed by Charles Tassin, Matignon’s homemade cuisine features gourmet dishes prepared on-site, including the iconic "Signature Beaumarly" dish, The Crying Tiger.