13 legendary lunch spots in Paris
Aside from being a major artistic powerhouse and the city of love, Paris is and will always be a culinary capital. When in La Ville Lumière, we walk from the chicest boutiques in Le Marais to the hippest museums and galleries in Saint Germain and, inevitably, get our appetite roaring.
Where to go? Which to choose? We've got you covered. These are our 13 favourite cafés, bistrós, experimental fine-dining experiences and Michelin-starred brasseries we find ourselves returning to time and again.
OLGA - Vins Et Fromage
OLGA is a petite cheese and wine bar that celebrates Parisians' favourite spread. Savour a creamy Camembert or a nutty Emmental while you quench your thirst with a fruity rosé over a golden afternoon.
Chez L’ami Jean
A classic and extraordinary French bistro. Go for their celebrated boeuf Bourguignon, their mouth-watering confit de canard, or, if you are feeling curious, try their six-course tasting menu.
Opium - La Cabane
Opium, La Cabane is a local seafood gem. If you are lucky enough to get a table, take pleasure in their exquisite oysters, their crispy shrimp and their splendid platters of smoked salmon.
Candelaria
Sometimes you need to satisfy a craving. When we yearn for juicy birria tacos, chilaquiles and various rounds of spicy margs, Candelaria is our go-to Mexican.
Septime
There are many Michelin-starred spots in the city, but Septime is different. This always buzzing neo-bistro is our type of fine dining. Get experimental and put their other-worldly “surprise” menu to the test.
Loulou
Whoever said the French and Italians don’t get along has certainly not been to Loulou. This on-trend restaurant in Musée des Arts Décoratifs is the perfect excuse to wear a chic dress and indulge in their heavenly truffled pizza or linguine with clams.
Le Relais de Venise
Le Relais de Venise is the OG of steak frites. A trip to Paris involves a visit to this iconic staple of simplicity, tradition and pure sublimity.
Le Bistrot Paul Bert
Paul Bert is arguably our favourite bistro in Paris. Their rustic decor, casual ambience and endless wine selection are necessities for a long lunch date. While they are all about tradition, they have a daily changing menu that is to die for.
Dumbo Pigalle
We are big fans of grab-and-go spots and fast-casual eateries. Jumbo is both. Munch on a rich, high-quality American-style burger as you cruise around Montmartre’s uphill streets.
Takuto
Takuto is a sensational Japanese restaurant that serves hand rolls and the freshest raw fish cuts. If you are a sushi devotee, we strongly suggest you visit chef Takuya Watanabe’s dreamland.
Restaurant A.T
A.T. is another of our Michelin-starred faves. Their Japanese-French culinary symphony is nothing like anything we’ve tasted before. If you are in for a haute cuisine lunch, this is where you should go.
Chez Janou
We know you know. Chez Janou is a quintessential neighbourhood bistro that never fails to deliver authentic French dishes. It's THE place to order escargots, magret de canard and their dangerous mousse au chocolat.
Les Enfants Perdus
Last but not least: Les Enfants Perdus. This chic, very-French restaurant offers a weekly changing menu and, on the weekends, a brunch you will never be able to recover from.
Lia Mongrut
Spin a globe; stop it at random. In all likelihood, wherever your finger’s landed, Lía’s probably lived there—or been there on holiday at the very least. A Literature and Society graduate from the Vrije Universiteit of Amsterdam and more importantly, an Editorial Assistant here at gloobles, she never stops exploring. When she’s ready to hit the road, food tends to lead. Lía’s list of must-visit restaurants is seemingly endless, as is the list of top spots she’s been to. From Marrakesh to Medellín, we’d follow her anywhere.
