Paris Restaurants

Here’s a list of a few of my favorites. If you click on the name of the restaurant, you’ll be taken the the restaurant’s website where you can book and/or review the menu.

Carette

A lovely café with delicious pastries, light meals and the best chocolat chaud (hot chocolate). Pair this with a visit to Place Trocodero to view the Eiffel Tower. There are three locations around Paris. The Trocadéro, Place des Vogues, and Place du Tertre (near Sacre Coeur).

Mariage Freres

A great tea salon with light meals or pastries There are several locations. I like Rue Cler or Rue Bourg Tribourg in the Marais. There is a shop on Place de la Madeleine, but not a tea salon.

Chez Paul

A wonderful bistro serving all day. I recommend the steak au poivre and any dessert! It’s fun busy. I suggest making a reservation. I try to eat here every time I’m in Paris.

Le Train Bleu

In the Gare de Lyon train station, this is a very special place to celebrate or just enjoy the amazing decor. Be sure to make a reservation, as it books quickly. It’s a great place to go for lunch.

Benoit

A Michelin starred restaurant by Alain Ducasse, this is a great place for a beautiful lunch. It’s very pretty. Another favorite! My favorite dish is the Cassoulet, if it happens to be on the menu. Or, the Sole Meunière, the dish that captured Julia Child’s heart for French food.

L’Iot Vache

I have a very special place in my heart for this gem. It’s where a celebrated my 50th birthday. It’s located on the Ile St. Louis. My favorites are the Soupe de Poisson, and the Mousse au Chocolat. I change the main course depending on the season and what’s on the menu.

Boutiques des Vins

Located in a passage very near the Madeleine Hotel, I love to pop in here after a busy day. The menu includes traditional French fare, and a delicious burger. And of course, great wines

Brasserie Lipp

Located in the St. Germain neighborhood, this a French Alsatian style brasserie. It’s busy, bustling and open all day, and late into the evening. You’ll find great classic Alsatian dishes including choucroute, a dish similar to sauerkraut, but braised in white wine.

Le Mâchon D’Henri

This is a small cozy restaurant located in the St. Germain area. Be sure to reserve a table in advance. The food is traditional French fare.

Créperies on Rue Montparnasse

These are casual, simple dining options. There are several all on the same street one after another painted in many different colors. Enjoy a savory, then sweet… and with a cup of Brittany cider.

Top Creperies on Rue du Montparnasse:

  • Crêperie Josselin (67 Rue du Montparnasse): Renowned for its old-school, rustic setting with dark wood and Breton decor. Known for authentic galettes (savory buckwheat crêpes) and crêpes(sweet).

  • La Crêperie Bretonne (56 Rue du Montparnasse): A small, charming spot with friendly service, offering traditional Breton crêpes and offering gluten-free options.

  • Crêperie Port Manech (52 Rue du Montparnasse): A popular, traditional, and well-rated option on the street. This is the one I usually go to in this area. So good!!!

  • Chez Jeanne (Rue du Montparnasse): Known for creative, high-quality crêpes in a warm environment.

  • Crêperie de Plougastel (Located in the Montparnasse area): A highly-rated, historic spot specializing in authentic Breton cuisine. 

Pizza Pompeii

This restaurant/pizzeria is located around the corner from the Madeleine Hotel. The food is very good and the portions are generous. It’s really cozy and fun! Most of the time you can walk in. If they’re busy, they may ask to stop back in the few minutes when they can seat you.