My recent trip to Paris was nothing short of a culinary adventure. From quaint bistros tucked away in cobblestone alleys to Michelin-starred restaurants offering haute cuisine, the City of Light captivated my taste buds with its diverse and delicious offerings.
1. Le Relais de l’Entrecôte: Savoring Steak Frites in Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Nestled in the heart of the Left Bank’s charming Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, Le Relais de l’Entrecôte is a beloved institution renowned for its signature dish: steak frites. Located at 20 Rue Saint-Benoît, this cozy bistro exudes classic Parisian charm with its vintage décor and bustling atmosphere.
Upon entering Le Relais de l’Entrecôte, diners are greeted by the tantalizing aroma of sizzling steak and golden fries. The menu is delightfully simple, offering only one main course: entrecôte steak served with a secret herb-infused sauce and a generous portion of crispy French fries.
As I indulged in the perfectly cooked steak and delectable sauce, I couldn’t help but appreciate the restaurant’s commitment to quality and tradition. The friendly service and lively ambiance added to the overall dining experience, making it a must-visit for steak lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
Price Range: €20-€30 per person
Reservation Platform: Reservations can be made via the restaurant’s website or by phone.
Nearby Attractions: After satisfying your appetite at Le Relais de l’Entrecôte, take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque streets of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, where you’ll find charming boutiques, art galleries, and historic landmarks such as the iconic Café de Flore and the historic Saint-Sulpice Church.
2. Ladurée: Indulging in Macarons at Champs-Élysées
No visit to Paris would be complete without sampling the city’s famous macarons, and Ladurée is the ultimate destination for these delicate confections. Located at 75 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, this elegant patisserie is housed in a historic building overlooking the iconic Champs-Élysées avenue.
Stepping into Ladurée feels like entering a whimsical wonderland of pastel colors and sweet aromas. The display cases are filled with an array of beautifully crafted macarons in a rainbow of flavors, from classic favorites like vanilla and raspberry to exotic creations like salted caramel and rose petal.
As I savored each bite of these heavenly treats, I couldn’t help but marvel at the delicate balance of flavors and textures. The macarons at Ladurée are truly a work of art, and the attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the dining experience.
Price Range: €2-€3 per macaron
Reservation Platform: Ladurée does not accept reservations for their macaron shops, but you can purchase macarons online or at their various locations throughout Paris.
Nearby Attractions: After indulging in macarons at Ladurée, take a leisurely stroll down the Champs-Élysées and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this iconic Parisian boulevard. Stop by the Arc de Triomphe for breathtaking views of the city, or explore the nearby Jardin des Tuileries for a peaceful retreat amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.
3. Le Marais: Exploring Jewish-Inspired Cuisine at L’As du Fallafel
In the heart of the historic Marais district lies L’As du Fallafel, a bustling eatery renowned for its mouthwatering falafel sandwiches. Tucked away at 34 Rue des Rosiers, this cozy establishment exudes a lively ambiance, with diners spilling out onto the sidewalk to enjoy their savory treats.
I couldn’t resist the allure of L’As du Fallafel’s famed falafel sandwich. Served in a warm pita and topped with crispy falafel balls, tangy tahini sauce, crunchy vegetables, and a sprinkling of fresh herbs, each bite was a symphony of flavors and textures.
What sets L’As du Fallafel apart is its commitment to quality ingredients and traditional preparation methods. The falafel is made from scratch daily, using a secret blend of spices and herbs passed down through generations. The result is a falafel sandwich that is as authentic as it is delicious, earning L’As du Fallafel its reputation as one of the best falafel joints in Paris.
Price Range: €6-€8 per sandwich
Reservation Platform: L’As du Fallafel operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so be prepared to wait in line during peak hours.
Nearby Attractions: After satisfying your appetite at L’As du Fallafel, take some time to explore the vibrant streets of Le Marais. Discover charming boutiques, art galleries, and historic landmarks such as the Place des Vosges and the Musée Carnavalet, which offers insight into the history of Paris.
4. Le Marché des Enfants Rouges: Sampling Global Flavors at Paris’s Oldest Covered Market
Located in the trendy Marais district, Le Marché des Enfants Rouges is Paris’s oldest covered market, dating back to the 17th century. Situated at 39 Rue de Bretagne, this bustling marketplace is a melting pot of culinary delights, offering a diverse array of international cuisines.
As I wandered through the market’s vibrant stalls, I was greeted by the enticing aromas of freshly prepared dishes from around the world. From Moroccan tagines and Japanese sushi to Lebanese mezze and French pastries, there was something to satisfy every craving.
One standout dish that caught my eye was the Japanese bento box from the popular stall, Hana Bento. Packed with sushi rolls, sashimi, tempura, and pickled vegetables, this flavorful meal was a feast for the senses. The ingredients were fresh and expertly prepared, showcasing the skill and craftsmanship of the chefs.
What I love most about Le Marché des Enfants Rouges is its eclectic atmosphere and sense of community. Locals and tourists alike gather here to sample delicious food, shop for fresh produce, and socialize with friends and neighbors. It’s a true reflection of Paris’s diverse culinary scene and a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.
Price Range: Prices vary depending on the stall and dish, but most meals are between €10-€20.
Reservation Platform: Le Marché des Enfants Rouges does not accept reservations as it operates as a traditional market. Simply show up and explore the various stalls at your leisure.
Nearby Attractions: After exploring Le Marché des Enfants Rouges, take a stroll through the picturesque streets of the Marais district. Discover hidden gems like the Place des Vosges, a stunning square surrounded by elegant townhouses, or visit the Musée Picasso to admire works by the legendary artist.
5. Montmartre: Savoring Artisanal Pastries at Boulangerie Au Levain du Marais
Nestled in the charming neighborhood of Montmartre, Boulangerie Au Levain du Marais is a hidden gem known for its artisanal pastries and traditional French bread. Situated at 32 Rue des Abbesses, this quaint bakery exudes old-world charm, with its rustic decor and mouthwatering display of baked goods.
Stepping into Boulangerie Au Levain du Marais feels like a journey back in time, with the scent of freshly baked bread filling the air and the sound of laughter and chatter echoing through the cozy space. As I perused the selection of pastries, I was greeted by a tempting array of croissants, pain au chocolat, and fruit tarts, each more delectable than the last.
One pastry that stood out to me was the classic croissant, freshly baked and perfectly golden brown. With its flaky layers and buttery flavor, it was a true testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the bakers at Boulangerie Au Levain du Marais. Paired with a strong cup of coffee, it was the perfect way to start my day of exploring Montmartre.
What sets this bakery apart is its commitment to using high-quality ingredients and traditional baking techniques. From the organic flour to the farm-fresh eggs, every component is carefully selected to ensure the utmost freshness and flavor. It’s no wonder that Boulangerie Au Levain du Marais has earned a loyal following of locals and tourists alike.
Price Range: Pastries range from €2-€4 each, with speciality items priced slightly higher.
Reservation Platform: Boulangerie Au Levain du Marais does not accept reservations as it operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early to avoid the crowds.
Nearby Attractions: After indulging in pastries at Boulangerie Au Levain du Marais, take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of Montmartre. Visit iconic landmarks like the Sacré-Cœur Basilica and the Moulin Rouge, or explore the charming vineyard of Clos Montmartre, the only remaining vineyard in central Paris.
6. Saint-Germain-des-Prés: Delighting in Gourmet Cuisine at Café de Flore
In the heart of the chic Saint-Germain-des-Prés district lies Café de Flore, a historic institution beloved by locals and visitors alike. Situated at 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, this iconic café has been serving up gourmet cuisine and Parisian charm since 1887.
Walking into Café de Flore feels like stepping back in time, with its elegant Art Deco decor, polished marble tables, and vintage red banquettes. As I settled into a cozy corner table, I was greeted by the friendly staff and a menu brimming with classic French dishes and indulgent desserts.
For my meal, I opted for the signature Croque Madame, a decadent grilled sandwich filled with ham, cheese, and creamy béchamel sauce, topped with a perfectly fried egg. Each bite was a symphony of flavors, with the richness of the cheese complementing the savory ham and the runny yolk adding a luxurious touch.
What sets Café de Flore apart is its rich history and cultural significance. Over the years, it has played host to some of the world’s most influential artists, writers, and intellectuals, including Pablo Picasso, Ernest Hemingway, and Simone de Beauvoir. Today, it remains a cherished meeting place for locals and a must-visit destination for visitors to Paris.
Price Range: Main dishes range from €15-€30, with desserts priced at €10-€15.
Reservation Platform: Café de Flore accepts reservations for lunch and dinner, but walk-ins are also welcome. Reservations can be made online via their official website or by phone.
Nearby Attractions: After dining at Café de Flore, take some time to explore the vibrant Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood. Visit the nearby Luxembourg Gardens, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city, or browse the boutiques and art galleries along Rue de Rennes.
