The Best Restaurants in Paris: Where to Eat, Drink, and Unwind

Paris may be the city of love and lights, but I also think it could pass as the city of delicious food.

I recently got back from Paris Fashion Week, so I figured I would put together a post on where to eat while visiting. In general, the food is amazing and you really can’t go wrong by popping into a cafe or brasserie, but if you want to plan out your trip in a more detailed way, this list of the best restaurants in Paris will help.

Below, I am sharing my favorite spots from my most recent trip as well as some pointers on what I ordered and enjoyed the most. Keep in mind that many of these restaurants require reservations, so be sure to plan ahead and book your table well in advance.

Plus, if you prefer quick bites and spontaneous meals, check out the end of this post for my convenient, fresh bite recommendations.

Bon appetit!

The Best Restaurants in Paris

Gigi Paris 

With stunning view of the Eiffel Tour, a warm-welcoming ambiance, and the cutest decor, Gigi Paris is a must when eating your way through the city. One of the highlights was the Truffle Pasta Burrata we ordered as an appetizer. It was so delicious and all of the portion sizes were honestly perfect.

I highly recommend booking this place far in advance and adding it to your itinerary. Although I did not get a chance to try these, some of the restaurants most highly coveted dishes include the Risotto with Truffle, Veal Milanese, and Truffled Arancini.

Coco Restaurant

Paris restaurants really knock it out of the park with indoor and outdoor dining options. We sat outside at Coco Restaurant, but the ambiance and decor inside was also super cute — I would recommend either as a good option.

I enjoyed the Lobster Pasta while dinning al fresco and taking in the Paris ambiance. Another perk was the live music, which really boosted the overall vibe. I’ll definitely be coming back here during my next trip!

La Suite Girafe

The views on the balcony of La Suite Girafe are nothing short of amazing. While dining, you can take in sweeping views of the Eiffel tower along with panoramic sightings of Paris.

I ordered the Sea Bass which was served with some of the best potatoes I have ever had. To wrap up an already incredible meal, we had the most delicious dessert that was topped with fresh berry sauce (which I have been dreaming about since.)

Brasserie Lutetia

If you’re looking for a restaurant that locals flock to, this is it. The outdoor terrace is everything you’d want and more in a traditional Parisian dining experience. Inside, the ambiance is rich with Art Deco History and definitely has a fun and lively vibe.

Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this restaurant has it all — from delicious desserts to a sea food bar, you really cannot go wrong by stopping in for a bite.

p.s. for those of you with a sweet tooth, I highly recommend browsing the dessert menu!

Picchetto Paris

This was the cutest little pizza and pasta place that I ate at with a group of friends. Their charcuterie board was beautifully put together and the Truffle Pizza was packed with flavor.

As you can see, the restaurant itself is stunning. The dark ceiling mixed with the wood and bright lights created a cozy and intimate environment, perfect for our group. It has such a fun feel, which is an added bonus to a delicious and hearty meal.

Quick + Fresh Bites

Pret a Manger

When traveling abroad becomes overwhelming it’s always nice to see something that reminds you of home. For me, this was a stop into Pret a Manger. They have grab-and-go sandwiches, fresh juices, pastries, coffee, and more.

With the option to sit down and order, Pret a Manger is sure to be an easy bite if you have a day packed full of activities, shopping, and strolling.

Perruche Paris

I am sure I have said this about pretty much every restaurant we went to, but this was my favorite lunch we had! The views (once again) are stunning and the vibe is so sweet.

I had the Tuna Belly Salad and was pleasantly surprised by the portion size — it could have easily served two people. I also appreciate that their desserts are not too sweet, but rather fruity and creamy (the perfect option in the warm weather.)

Monoprix

After a long day, instead of going out to eat, we opted for dinner in bed at the hotel. We stoped by Monoprix, which is basically like our Target, and grabbed some essentials for a charcuterie board before enjoying a casual night in.

We also got groceries for a picnic, which is absolutely mandatory when visiting Paris. There is no shortage of quaint benches, beautiful parks, and cobble stone streets where you can stop and indulge a quick snack. This is a great way to try something new and switch things up when you’re tired of eating out every day and night.

Breizh Cafe

There is one simple rule when eating your way through Paris — you cannot leave without visiting a crepe stand. Paris is full of street food carts, many of which offer a variety of crepes. It might be tempting to go to the first one you see, but oftentimes they cook crepes in the morning and then reheat them when you place your order.

If you cannot make it to one of the best known crepe spots around, Breizh Cafe, make sure your crepe cafe or stand pours the batter in front of you for the freshest crepe option!

What are your favorite restaurants to go to while visiting Paris? Let me know in the comment section below!