Paris, a city synonymous with art, culture, and exquisite cuisine, invites food lovers on an unforgettable journey through its vibrant dining scene. From hidden gems that blend tradition with innovation to iconic establishments steeped in history, this guide explores some of the best culinary experiences the City of Light has to offer. Whether seeking a lively atmosphere or a serene escape, these carefully curated venues promise to delight the senses and create lasting memories. Join us as we uncover the treasures of Parisian gastronomy, where each meal is a celebration of flavor and creativity.
Maxim’s: The Parisian Institution
In a city renowned for fashion and culture, Maxim’s stands as a legendary address—a beacon in the heart of Paris. Here, fine words meet exquisite dishes, creating a menu that embodies the essence of this iconic establishment. Patrons can savor classic dishes that have made Maxim’s famous, along with refreshed interpretations that reflect contemporary tastes, all crafted to bring joy and satisfaction.
The menu features delights such as parsleyed frog legs, cheese soufflé, and a tribute to Bocuse with the VGE soup, complete with a flaky puff pastry crust over a broth of truffle, foie gras, and poultry. Diners can also indulge in signature offerings like Choron sauce, Henri IV chicken roasted to perfection, sole Albert, lobster à l’Américaine, scallops with beurre blanc, Tournedos Rossini, crispy pommes allumettes, ribeye steak, and linguine with caviar—truly a celebration of French cuisine.
Maxim’s also collaborates with the talented chef Yann Couvreur, who reinvents classic desserts such as crêpe Suzette, chocolate soufflé, lemon meringue cream, and a refreshing apple with Calvados sabayon and tonka bean ice cream.
Upon entering, guests will find the restaurant’s first room, known as the grill or garden, a favored spot for lunch. Beyond this is the Omnibus room, featuring rows of tables reminiscent of a Pullman car. Further inside lies the grand hall, a magnificent space that has witnessed the evolution of dance, with royal tables, elegant banquettes, and a stage for live performances. Here, diners can enjoy their meals before dancing the night away—sometimes even simultaneously—creating an atmosphere that thrives on celebration.
Upstairs, the bar awaits—a legendary venue within this iconic establishment. From 6 PM until well past midnight, it attracts a fashionable crowd eager to enjoy inspired dishes, refreshing cocktails, and lively music. Just a few steps away on the second floor is a charming passage leading to the most urban of winter gardens.
At Maxim’s, every evening is a blend of fine dining and vibrant nightlife, with live bands playing a mix of jazz and pop, ensuring that this hotspot remains a staple during Fashion Week and beyond.
Baronne: The New Paris Society
Following a year of revitalizing iconic venues like Laurent and Maxim’s, Laurent de Gourcuff continues the momentum with the establishment of Baronne, a stunning restaurant located in the Hôtel Salomon de Rothschild. In partnership with Viparis, they are infusing new life into this historic building, which encompasses a restaurant, bar, and event space.
Baronne draws inspiration from the poignant story of Salomon and Adèle de Rothschild. After Salomon’s untimely passing, Adèle commissioned the construction of a lavish mansion in Paris as a tribute to her husband. Today, this neo-Renaissance architectural gem serves as the backdrop for Baronne, where historic elegance intertwines with refined French cuisine. The restaurant offers a distinctive experience, featuring a serene terrace and a menu showcasing exceptional ingredients, complemented by an impressive selection of grands crus and signature cocktails.
Drouant: An Institution in the Heart of Paris
Located just minutes from the Opéra Garnier, Drouant invites guests to immerse themselves in a world of gastronomy and culture. Renowned as the venue for the deliberations of the Prix Goncourt and Renaudot, Drouant offers an elegant atmosphere rich in history. The culinary offerings, crafted by talented Chef Romain Van Thienen, are fresh, colorful, and light. Diners can enjoy dishes such as fish carved at the pedestal table, delicate tartars, and barbecued veal chops, all complemented by a collection of over 2,000 wine references that cater to discerning palates. The shaded terrace provides a serene escape, allowing guests to sip on cocktails with original flavors, far removed from the hustle and bustle of Paris.
Tekés: A Culinary Journey Through the Heart of Paris
Located at 4 bis rue Saint-Sauveur, Tekés is a Parisian restaurant that showcases plant-based flavors inspired by the culinary techniques of Jerusalem. Designed by the team at Rodaa Studio under the direction of architect Rodolphe Albert, Tekés offers a gastronomic experience where every meal becomes a memorable occasion.
The Sunday brunch, crafted by Chef Assaf Granit, invites guests on a culinary journey that celebrates the fusion of cultures and the beauty of nature’s delicacies. The cozy ambiance features a bar area transformed into an indoor garden, creating an inviting space for sharing. The cocktail menu is equally enticing, boasting unique signature creations like the surprising Cemo Babayit and Ani Masmika.
Suelo: Spain in Paris!
Inspired by the rich culture of Spain, Suelo serves as a lifestyle embassy of the Iberian Peninsula in Paris. Upon entering, guests are transported to the sun-drenched landscapes of southern Spain, where the Mediterranean Sea beckons.
Nestled at the corner of Rue de la Trémoille and Rue Boccador, Suelo features expansive windows that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a spacious terrace on sunny days. The interior, designed by the renowned Lázaro Rosa Violan, showcases a warm color palette and a mix of materials that celebrate exoticism. Drawing from Moorish architecture and adorned with unique art pieces, the decor reflects Lázaro’s expertise, honed from his work on prestigious establishments in Spain, including a groundbreaking three-Michelin-star concept by Dabiz Munoz in Madrid.
At Suelo, the emphasis is on celebration, with large tables inviting friends and family to gather. Once the group assembles, laughter fills the air, and as night falls, the festivities truly begin, creating lasting memories set to a vibrant soundtrack.
The menu presents a bold reinterpretation of authentic Mediterranean cuisine, featuring delicacies such as Iberian ham, Carabineros shrimp, king crab, seafood, and the iconic Basque cake. Dishes are elegantly served in Ginori porcelain and French Gien earthenware, adding an artistic flair to the dining experience. The decor, with its Moorish influences and striking artworks—including a grand mural by Chloé Costes—completes the exotic ambiance of this unique dining destination.
Silencio des Près
Located in the heart of Rue Montmartre, Silencio des Près is a trendy and exclusive venue that seamlessly blends gastronomy and music. Evoking the charm of classic Parisian brasseries, the festive restaurant features the dedicated cuisine of chef Guillaume Sanchez during the early services. As the evening progresses, the atmosphere shifts to a more lively vibe at the bar, where the cocktail menu is expertly crafted by Rémy Savage.
Silencio Club
Designed by director David Linch, Le Silencio is one of Paris’s most secretive addresses. Hidden at the end of a subterranean alleyway, this unique space interweaves various artistic worlds, featuring a cinema, library, and bar. More than just a club, Le Silencio is a vital hub of the art scene, attracting both emerging talents and established stars who come together for musical evenings. While it maintains a highly selective atmosphere, Le Silencio opens its doors to the public from midnight onwards.
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