Best Restaurants in Paris According to Local Experts
Guests eating at Cafe de Flore in Paris
Paris, the City of Light, is not only a haven for art and culture but also for culinary excellence. From traditional French bistros to innovative international eateries, our local Context experts in Paris have curated their top picks on where to eat in Paris.
Bouillon Chartier Grands Boulevards
Nestled in the heart of Paris, Bouillon Chartier Grands Boulevards offers an authentic taste of French cuisine with its bustling, bright atmosphere. Known for its quality local dishes, the restaurant has cultivated strong ties with suppliers, ensuring a menu that's both delicious and accessible. Remy, a lifelong Parisian, historian, and Context expert, appreciates the quick-paced dining experience here, recommending, "I like to order the onion soup, especially in winter; it's comforting. Also, they serve celery remoulade, a dish that's become rare in Paris but is a nod to the city's working-class culinary history. The food here is simply wonderful, all written down on the table's paper bill in true French style."
Located between Royal and Vavin, Chez Papa Montparnasse Vavin brings the colorful, flavorful cuisine of the southwest of France to Paris. With dishes like cassoulet and duck breast, this restaurant is a homage to regional French cooking. Remy advises, "This place is perfect for duck lovers. It's also one of the few spots where you can taste dishes that are little known outside France's southwest. Just a heads up, the richness of the food here is something to savor."
Arpège, a 3-Michelin-star establishment, is a must-visit for those seeking fine dining in Paris. Its seasonal menu features ingredients straight from Chef Alain Passard's own gardens, emphasizing a minimalist yet exquisite approach to cuisine. Rhona, a pastry chef and Context expert in Paris, shares her experience, "The decor might be unassuming, but the food at Arpège is par excellence. Passard's respect for his ingredients shines through, offering some of the best vegetarian options in a city known for meat."
Le Train Bleu, located in the vibrant Gare de Lyon, provides an elegant dining experience reminiscent of the 1900 World's Fair. Its classic French dishes are served amidst stunning murals and art. Rhona captures the essence, "It's not just about the food here; it's the experience. Imagine dining before a train journey with classic cuisine in an opulent setting. The steak tartare is a modern classic, prepared right at your table. For a simpler fare, there are cozy corners for a drink."
For a taste of Afghanistan in Paris, Buzkashi offers home-cooked meals in a welcoming, intimate environment. Lindsey, an art historian and Context expert, describes it as, "A hidden gem for incredible Afghan cuisine. It's small, so reservations are key, especially for the unique floor-level dining. The vegetarian plate is my go-to, served on bread with an array of seasoned vegetables, making for an interactive and delightful meal."
Tucked away near Notre Dame, A. Lacroix Pâtissier is where art meets pastry. With its artistic desserts and friendly staff, this spot is perfect for anyone looking to indulge in French patisserie. Lindsey notes, "The desserts here are masterpieces, and the lunch special is unbeatable for quality and view. It's family-friendly too, with toys for kids to keep them entertained while you enjoy your meal."
These Parisian dining spots, recommended by our local experts, offer a slice of the city's rich culinary landscape, ensuring your journey through the best restaurants in Paris is as delightful as it is memorable. If you want to experience the tastes of Paris with one of our local experts, check out our Paris Food Tours.
More Local Favorites: Best Cafés in Paris
Ten Belles - Paris 10: Since 2012, Ten Belles by Canal Saint-Martin has charmed locals and tourists with its coffee, diverse menu, and unique merchandise.
Residence Kann Coffee: La Boissonnerie by Drew Harre and Juan Sanchez serves eco-friendly, creative French cuisine in a family atmosphere, using seasonal, local ingredients.
Ob-La-Di: On a charming street is a cozy café with limited seats, serving authentic breakfasts like avocado French toast in a Mediterranean-decorated space with homemade jams.
Umami Matcha Café to Go: UMAMI Matcha Café brings matcha to France with a serene, Japanese-themed ambiance, offering drinks, Coutume coffee, fusion cuisine, artisan products, and culinary events.
Matamata Coffee: Nestled in Montorgueil, Paris, is a two-story haven for coffee lovers, with homemade treats, lush decor, and a spiral staircase leading to a cozy lower floor.
Back in Black: Dive into the rock 'n' roll vibe at Back in Black, where the coffee is strong, and the atmosphere is all about dark, edgy charm.
Best Crêpes in Paris
Breizh Café - The unanimous favorite among our experts for its classic French crêpes and buckwheat galettes.
Crêperie Gigi - A cozy crêperie serving up savory and sweet crêpes and galettes inspired by seasonal goods.
La Crêperie Du Clown - Many locals’ favorite, enjoy crêpes and galettes with cider pairings.
Local Favorites in Paris
Bouillon République - Traditional French cuisine highlighting simple broth and seafood dishes.
La Boissonnerie - Rustic bistro setting serving up modern French cuisine.
Le Rigmarole - A high-end tasting menu where Japanese meets French.
Grande Brasserie - Enjoy traditional, seasonal French dishes with a large cocktail menu.
Parcelles - French comfort dishes with hearty ingredients.
Le Bon Georges - People watch while enjoying a rotating daily bistro menu with limitless wine pairings.
Patisserie vs Boulangerie
A boulangerie is your go-to for daily bread and croissants, while a patisserie is your spot for exquisite desserts, often seen as an art form in France.
Best Pâtisseries & Boulangeries in Paris
Pierre Hermé - Indulge in decadent treats by the master pastry chef.
Du Pain et des Idées - Organic ingredients for refined elegance.
Fou de Pâtisserie - Elaborate sweets for your sweet tooth.
Boulangerie Utopie - A neighborhood favorite for classic French pastries.
La Pâtisserie Cyril Lignac - Paul Bert - Crafted pastries and chocolates with iconic gift boxes.
International Favorites in Paris
The Cambridge Public House - English pub with comfort food.
Sonny’s Pizza/Deli - Authentic New York City vibes.
Kodawari Ramen (Yokochō) - Authentic ramen in St. Germain.
The Hardware Société - Australian coffee culture with a view of Sacré Coeur.
Café Mareva - Gluten and dairy-free options in a neighborhood setting.
Best Drink Spots in Paris
Best Wine Bars in Paris
Avant Comptoir de la Terre - Endless wine list with sharing dishes.
Martin - Natural wines with seasonal small plates.
Freddy's - Best wine-by-the-glass selections for those odd hours.
Best Cocktail Bars in Paris
Little Red Door - A universe of cocktails and flavors.
Le Mary Celeste - Creative cocktails in an intimate setting.
Hoppy Corner - A haven for beer lovers with local and global options.
For those seeking the best restaurants in Paris or pondering where to eat and drink in Paris, these recommendations from our local experts ensure you dive into the soul of Parisian dining. Whether it's a casual café, a historic brasserie, or an international delight, Paris's culinary scene has something for every palate. Start adding your top picks to your Paris itinerary now!
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