No vacation to the “City of Lights” is complete without discovering the best dining experiences in Paris.
The French capital is known for its daring flavors, with a wide selection of classic recipes, which have been perfectly developed throughout the centuries.
Check out my top picks, whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner cruise on the Seine, an exciting show at the classic Moulin Rouge or a cooking class to bring back home some tasty recipes to make for your friends and family.
| # | Activity Type | Price | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seine dinner cruise | From €115 | 2.5 hours | |
| 2 | Moulin Rouge | From €235 | 4 hours | |
| 3 | Cooking class | From €199 |
| 6 hours |
Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!
1 – Gourmet dinner cruise on the Seine River
Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 (341,819 reviews)
“I loved the view of all of the landmarks lit up at night.” Denise, Getyourguide
Cutting through almost 800 kilometers of Northern France, the Seine River is one of the country’s most significant waterways and there’s no way to explore it better than through a dinner cruise.
There are a multitude of these dining experiences to choose from, all of which offer a unique view of the city’s striking collection of architectural gems. In some cases, you’ll benefit from a glass of champagne to toast your loved ones over while in others, you’ll enjoy the added atmosphere that live music provides.
Summary of the experience:
- Gourmet à-la-carte dinner
- Passing by 10 popular landmarks
- Live entertainment
Read More: 15 Best Seine River Dinner Cruises in Paris for an Unparalleled Dining Experience
2 – Show and dinner at the Moulin Rouge
Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 (14,874 reviews)
“Literally an unforgettable evening full of the magic of Paris” Jeffrey, Headout
Recognized as the birthplace of the can-can, the Moulin Rouge, with its iconic windmill, is one of the most distinguishable landmarks in Paris.
While travelers can simply head to the venue to see its critically acclaimed show, Féerie, a better alternative is to book a combination experience with dinner, which will extend your memorable evening.
From feathers and sequins to acrobatics, and captivating twirls, this performance is the ultimate example of a cabaret show in Paris and the dinnertime show is a hit with both young and old.
Summary of the experience:
- Show with over 100 artists performing
- Gourmet dinner with vegan option
- Half a bottle of champagne or 2 soft drinks included pp
3 – Evening Parisian cooking class with 3-course menu
Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 (148 reviews)
“Paul’s knowledge of food made this a fascinating class. Highly recommend.” Janet, Viator
If you’re looking for one of the best dining experiences in Paris, you can’t discount a culinary lesson with a four-course dinner from Le Foodist that takes place at a charming cookery school in the 5th arrondissement.
With an experienced professional chef at your side, you’ll be gently guided through preparing a traditional French meal. Then, tuck into your masterpiece with your group, bonding over your shared cooking adventure and discussing your accomplishments.
You’ll also learn about wine and cheese pairings, making this one of the most well-rounded gastronomic experiences in Paris.
Summary of the experience:
- 3-course meal prepared with the help of a chef
- Optional visit to the market
- 12 participants max to ensure quality
4 – Show and dinner at the Paradis Latin
Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 (2032 reviews)
“Magic ! Everything is beautiful, warm with grace and humor Our group of 10 people was enchanted It’s sparkling, joyful, grandiose” Nelly, Getyourguide
The oldest cabaret in Paris, Paradis Latin has roots that stretch back to the early 19th century and its dinner show is one of the most recommended experiences in the Latin Quarter for tourists, and locals alike.
With over 30 performers taking to the stage after a succulent meal showcasing the country’s culinary past, this venue features great variety, from comedians to acrobats and everything in between. With a full stomach, you’ll enjoy the delights of this dazzling performance, which, despite its historic origins, is delightfully modern.
5 – Dinner at Madame Brasserie, on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower
Rating: ⭐️ 4.0/5 (391 reviews)
“I recommend. It is a unique experience. The food is wonderful. The view is unique. I would be back again.” Adriana, Tiqets
Situated on the Eiffel Tower itself, Madame Brasserie overlooks the center of Paris like a crowning jewel.
From its position almost 60 meters above ground, diners can gain astounding views of several illustrious landmarks, such as the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, Arc de Triomphe and Seine River. A once-in-a-lifetime experience for most travelers, eating at such a legendary monument is certain to be an outstanding experience for all.
This restaurant aims to offer tourists a warm welcome to the “City of Lights” through both its hearty French cuisine and friendly service.
6 – Michelin-starred dinner at Le Jules Verne Restaurant, on the Eiffel Tower’s second floor
Rating: ⭐️ 4.4/5 (2329 reviews)
“What an exceptional dining experience! The service was phenomenal and the atmosphere was absolutely unique. Nothing like it anywhere in the world.” Thomas
Those wishing to reach even greater heights on the Eiffel Tower can visit the Le Jules Verne Restaurant on the landmark’s second floor.
The venue, led by Chef Frédéric Anton, has been awarded a Michelin star for its subtle yet effective pairing of simple ingredients, making it an attractive dining prospect for those with a refined palette.
The menu is inspired by the Eiffel Tower itself, reflecting the femininity, harmony and roundness of its architecture through a flavorsome assortment of delicacies.
7 – Panoramic dinner at the Ciel de Paris in the Montparnasse Tower
Rating: ⭐️ 4.2/5 (5855 reviews)
“One of the best restaurants in Paris, with a spectacular panoramic view of Paris and Eiffel Tower!” Sorodoeht
Situated more than 50 floors above Paris’ city streets in the Montparnasse Tower lies a hidden culinary hotspot — Ciel de Paris.
Featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, this restaurant boasts views across the 15th arrondissement and far beyond. With breakfast, lunch and dinner menus, as well as those for special occasions, there is something to suit every taste.
Not only is this the highest restaurant in France’s capital but also across the whole of Europe, at 210 meters high, with visibility that stretches 40 kilometers on a clear day.
8 – Dinner at the Tour D’Argent, Paris oldest restaurant
Rating: ⭐️ 4.4/5 (2228 reviews)
“Lovely, quaint bistro with delicious food. We dined at lunch time and the quality of food was exceptional.” Leanne
Generally regarded as the oldest restaurant in Paris, Tour D’Argent originally opened in 1582 and still attracts a varied crowd to sample its Michelin-starred fare.
It is believed that this venue has regal ties with King Henry III of France’s first use of the fork as a utensil supposedly taking place here in the restaurant’s early days. The establishment’s name translates to “Silver Tower,” and was named by the royal who often dined at Tour D’Argent.
Much effort goes into the raising and preparing of Tour D’Argent’s signature dish — pressed duck — with its own farm dedicated to the rearing of the water birds.
9 – Contemporary cuisine with a view at Girafe Restaurant
Rating: ⭐️ 4/5 (2811 reviews)
“This is the restaurant of the moment in Paris, and for good reason. The Eiffel Tower views from the terrace are off the hook!” Nikki
The Girafe Restaurant offers an insight into the Paris of yesteryear, drawing inspiration for its decor from the popular Art Deco movement that gripped the city in a frenzy of bold geometry during the 1930s.
With high ceilings, marbled tables and an array of plants that look as though they’ve been freshly transported from the rainforests of Asia, the Girafe Restaurant’s classy atmosphere and location, overlooking the Eiffel Tower, make it a popular spot for an assortment of hungry travelers.
10 – Traditional dinner at the Bouillon Chartier Grands Boulevards
Rating: ⭐️ 4/5 (19000 reviews)
“Very delicious authentic French food, I highly recommend this place.” Mayan
Bouillon Chartier Grands Boulevards is a popular bouillon restaurant in the center of Paris.
This venue, located in the 9th arrondissement, is one of three Bouillon Chartier restaurants, the others of which are situated in Montparnasse and the Gare de l’Est railway station. Bouillon restaurants are characterized by their spacious interiors and menus featuring traditional French cuisine.
This one in particular is more than 100 years old, meaning its owners have had plenty of time to perfect its array of appetizing dishes.
11 – Dinner at Versailles at Ore, Ducasse au Chateau de Versailles
Rating: ⭐️ 4/5 (825 reviews)
“We had good food and pleasant service here when visiting the Versailles gardens.” Elaine
Located in the historic Dufour Pavilion of one of France’s most esteemed regal palaces, Ore, Ducasse au Chateau de Versaille offers its guests the chance to feel like royalty for an hour or two.
The Palace of Versailles was founded in the first half of the 17th century on the grounds of a humble hunting lodge used by King Louis XIII. Today, it serves as a tourist attraction, with several dining options.
Of these, the modern yet elegant Ore, Ducasse au Chateau de Versaille is a firm favorite, open to the public during the day and reserved for private events as the afternoon gives way to the evening.
Hot tip: If you wish to visit Versailles Palace before your dining experience, make sure to check our full catalog of Versailles Palace tickets & tours.
Read more: Best Versailles tours from Paris
12 – Sightseeing dinner on the Bus Toqué
Rating: ⭐️ 4/5 (17 reviews)
“I experienced the best time and a fantastic view of the city. It was my first time in Paris a very good way to see the city and spend my birthday.” Aly, Viator
A double-decker sightseeing bus and moving restaurant, Bus Toqué provides a unique dining experience in Paris.
More than a simple dinner, this cultural experience guides you through the city’s most renowned streets, passing by a host of monuments, such as the Eiffel Tower and Place Vendôme, depending on which of its two routes you choose. With a glass roof, this bus ensures travelers never miss a sight as they feast on a menu that is freshly prepared on board.
13 – Dinner in the dark at Dans le Noir
Rating: ⭐️ 4.2/5 (2031 reviews)
“What a unique experience to undertake. Eating dinner in complete and utter darkness. Truly allows you to stop and take in what you are eating.” Bronte
Translating to “In the Dark,” Dans le Noir, Paris is the first in a chain of restaurants that provide a blind dining experience.
Co-funded by the Paul Guinot Foundation for Blind People, the venue is staffed entirely by Parisians who suffer from visual impairments and has won several awards for its dedication to inclusion. Without being influenced by your sight, you’ll be able to taste the true flavors of your food and try dishes that you may otherwise turn down.
14 – Classic Corsican cuisine at Le Wagon Bleu
Rating: ⭐️ 4.2/5 (1214 reviews)
“Lovely setting. You get the feeling that you’re having dinner in an old train wagon. The service was kind and accommodating and the food is a wonderful french cuisine. 10/10” Nicolas
Train enthusiasts will find nowhere better to dine in Paris than Le Wagon Bleu, which seats guests in an original train carriage from the Orient Express.
Translating to the “Blue Wagon,” the restaurant’s carriage features royal blue upholstery, which stands out against its paneled wooden walls. The carriage itself dates back to 1925 and provides a slice of nostalgia to all visitors who take a seat at one of its luxurious tables.
Here, visitors can try a taste of Corsica — a small island that sits in the Mediterranean Sea between France and Italy — as well as classic bistro food.
15 – La Felicità, Europe’s largest restaurant
Rating: ⭐️ 4.4/5 (21880 reviews)
“I love the concept of this place. Quite a few different food options from pastas, to pizza, to burgers with a beer garden and cocktail bar.” Courtney
Set near the world-famous start-up campus, Station F, La Felicità offers a break from French cuisine with a vibrant Italian menu.
The largest restaurant in Europe, La Felicità can seat over 1,000 guests within a transformed railway station. Visitors will find the restaurant operates like a cafeteria with several bars serving different items where guests can queue for their food.
The entire experience is casual yet La Felicità’s lively atmosphere makes it special in its own way.
16 – Michelin-starred cuisine at Le Train Bleu in Gare de Lyon
Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 (9385 reviews)
“Not only is this one of the most beautiful restaurants in France but also the world! it is so opulence!” Ed
Tucked away inside the Gare de Lyon station, Le Train Bleu is a two-Michelin-star restaurant that provides a fine dining experience to weary travelers on their way in or out of the city.
Originally opening in 1901 as the “Gare de Lyon Buffet,” the restaurant is now recognized as a Historic Monument of France.
From gilded walls to chandeliers, intricate paintings and grand seating, nothing about this venue is minimal. Instead, it is an explosion of opulence, transporting guests on a journey back to the beginning of the 20th century.
17 – Café de Flore, a renowned Parisian cafe
Rating: ⭐️ 3.9/5 (9002 reviews)
“Legendary place! This summer I went there a lot of time and always enjoyed it.” Katherina
The oldest coffee house in Paris, Café De Flore has established itself as the favored hangout of writers and philosophers.
With a long list of famous faces having frequented the venue since its opening in the 1880s, Café De Flore’s reputation is what drives tourists to its corner in the 6th arrondissement.
Pablo Picasso, Georges Bataille, Léon-Paul Fargue, Raymond Queneau and Robert Desnos are all known to have regularly visited the cafe, which is inspired by the Art Deco movement.
18 – Wine experience at Caves du Louvre, set in a historic royal cellar
Rating: ⭐️ 4.6/5 (46 reviews)
“Amazing experience!
You take a tour in the wine cellar, and go to beautifully decorated rooms.” Shirly
Once serving as royal wine cellars for King Louise XV, the 18th-century Caves du Louvre now houses workshops, tastings and events, centered around the indulgent beverage.
The cellars extend for over 800 square meters and visitors to the venue can explore its extensive tunnels, hidden away under the streets of Paris.
There are many different experiences to choose from here, including those that allow guests to create their own unique blend of wine, which they can take home to share with their loved ones.
Hot tip: If you wish to visit the Louvre Museum before your dining experience, make sure to check our complete catalog of Louvre Museum tickets & tours.
19 – Classic Parisian cuisine at La Coupole
Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 (9465 reviews)
“La Coupole is truly a gem nestled in the heart of Paris, offering a fine dining experience that captures the essence of the city.” Sharath
Constructed in the Roaring Twenties, La Coupole is an Art Deco masterpiece, complete with cubist mosaics and marble pillars.
In its early years, the Montparnasse restaurant attracted the likes of Salvador Dalí, Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse. Now, almost a century later, the venue still entices a star-studded artistic crowd.
Ernest Hemingway, Josephine Baker, André Dérain and Simone de Beauvoir were all also among La Coupole’s regular clients, and anyone who wishes to walk in the footsteps of the 20th-century greats should dine here.
20 – Traditional French dishes at Au Pied de Cochon
Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 (10511 reviews)
“Came across this place accidentally and enjoyed it for every bit! We even came back second time, and this means it was that good!” Olga
A hospitable dining experience for all, Au Pied de Cochon was established before WWII and welcomed all manner of clientele, including the homeless, to try its hearty cuisine.
After struggling to stay afloat during the war, Au Pied de Cochon began operating as the first restaurant in Paris to open 24/7. While the venue underwent a rollercoaster ride of ups and downs in the years that followed, its success was sealed after President Francois Mitterand celebrated his election here.
Now, whatever time of day or night you find yourself craving onion soup, you can simply head down to Au Pied de Cochon for a bite.
21 – La Rotonde de la Muette, classic Parisian bistro
Rating: ⭐️ 4.1/5 (1773 reviews)
“We have eaten here several times, after stumbling on it after a trip to a museum. This is a lovely cafe, with first class service and food.” Sally
While many brasseries can serve simply as tourist traps, La Rotonde de la Muette is a pleasant surprise, maintaining authenticity through its historic decor and delicious menu.
The perfect spot to watch the world go by, La Rotonde de la Muette is the type of venue where visitors stop for a quick coffee and stay for lunch. With its rich blue details, charming interior and extensive menu, this brasserie is a crowd-pleaser for both travelers and Parisian residents.
22 – Contemporary dining at Georges Paris, atop the Pompidou Center
Rating: ⭐️ 3.8/5 (4564 reviews)
“Amazing! Beautiful views combined with delicious food and DJ. Service was very attentive and courteous.” Szczepan
Situated in a prime position atop the Centre Georges Pompidou, Georges Paris is regularly declared one of the most romantic dining spots in Paris.
With an outside terrace, summer afternoons can be whiled away watching the hustle and bustle of Paris below with a glass of wine in hand. However, the restaurant is also spectacular during the colder months with glass walls that provide sweeping views across the city in comfort.
Designed in an industrial-chic style, the decor of this venue is in keeping with the rest of the museum.