Paris Dining Guide with The Traveling Professor
One of the joys of traveling to Paris on one of our small group tours is the wide selection of great eating spots. From iconic brasseries to charming cafés, here are my top restaurant picks in Paris.
Classic Paris Brasseries
Brasserie Bofinger (4th arrondissement)
Located near the Bastille Opera House, Brasserie Bofinger is one of the oldest Parisian brasseries with a strong Alsatian influence. Their seafood platters (fruits de mer) are legendary. Reserve in advance for pre- or post-opera dining.
Brasserie Lipp (6th arrondissement)
An institution in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Brasserie Lipp has served the same menu for 75 years. Don’t miss the choucroute garnie or fresh seafood dishes. Ask for a table on the main floor for the best experience.
Chartier (9th arrondissement)
Step back in time at Bouillon Chartier, a bustling, historic dining hall. The food is simple but affordable—an appetizer, entrée, dessert, and wine for around €20. Expect lines, but the atmosphere is worth it. This restaurant is a staple on every trip we take to the city.
Le Train Bleu (12th arrondissement)
Inside Gare de Lyon, Le Train Bleu stuns with its Belle Époque decor. The food can be uneven, but the grand setting makes it a memorable Paris dining experience. Reservations recommended.
Affordable & Iconic Paris Eats
L’As du Fallafel (4th arrondissement)
Perhaps the most famous falafel in Paris, located in the Marais. Their pita sandwiches and “meat cocktail” are perfect for a quick, inexpensive meal. Eat in or take away—no reservations needed.
Café Le Petit Pont (5th arrondissement)
With spectacular views of Notre Dame, Café Le Petit Pont is a perfect evening stop. The food is secondary to the ambience and live jazz—ideal for a late-night Paris experience.
Pâtisserie Viennoise (6th arrondissement)
A hidden gem near the Sorbonne, this pastry shop makes everything in-house. From croissants to strudels, and a hot chocolate better than Angelina’s, it’s one of the best spots for breakfast in Paris.
Les Éditeurs (6th arrondissement)
Located in the Odéon neighborhood, Les Éditeurs is a great café to meet friends or people-watch. Stop here for a café au lait or light snack—you might even spot a celebrity.
Romantic Paris Restaurants
Tucked in the Latin Quarter, this restaurant is beloved for its fireplace, candlelight, and cozy atmosphere. Try the Salade Coupe Chou, Boeuf Bourguignon, or duck breast with pears and potato pancakes.
A La Petite Chaise (7th arrondissement)
The oldest restaurant in Paris (sorry, Procope!). Expect authentic French classics like foie gras, onion soup, and fresh seafood. A prix-fixe menu makes it surprisingly good value.
Hidden Paris Bistros & Casual Dining
Bistrot d’Henri (6th arrondissement)
A cozy 25-seat spot with a Breton influence. Don’t miss the duck with honey or lamb with prunes. Expect to spend €30–35 per person—excellent value for authentic Parisian food.
Chez Michel (10th arrondissement)
Close to Gare du Nord, Chez Michel specializes in French seacoast cuisine like mussels, wild pigeon, and roast suckling pig. Reservations recommended. A top choice for authentic French dining off the tourist trail.
Bistrot Paul-Bert (11th arrondissement)
A neighborhood bistro with an excellent wine list and traditional French dishes. The entrecôte steak is the star we enjoyed on our last trip. Closed Sundays, Mondays, and in August.
Final Thoughts
Whether you want a romantic Paris dinner, a historic brasserie, or a casual café with locals, Paris offers something for every appetite. On our small group tours to Paris, we always make time to sample these classic Paris restaurants.