Our food editor went to Paris and came back (eventually) with a list of restaurants, brasseries and cafés that you simply must try.
Story and photos by Maura Boughter-Dornfeld, Food Editor
Visiting Paris is like rediscovering a part of myself. And myself loves to eat. What are the best restaurants in Paris right now? I visited Paris in August 2022 and reconnected with the city and culture I love.
From the moment I stepped off the Métro and into the captivating baguette-croissant filled air (tainted often by some other less pleasant smells in the hot summer months), I got the same belly-deep butterfly effect as I did during my first trip at the age of 14. I was lucky enough to teach English for a year in Paris and got to live the true “Emily In Paris” experience before the show was famous … or even existed. So much of the experience is based on the vibrant and rich food and drink, which are deeply rooted in history, tradition, and culture.
It is incredible to see the creativity that emerges when classic French cuisine is matched with new ingredients, trends, cooking methods, and global influence. This trip was the perfect marrying of old and new. Because many of my classic go-tos were closed due to the needed August vacation most Europeans take, I found new favorite places to eat, drink and enjoy in Paris. Here’s my list of the best restaurants in Paris to try right now.
Brasserie Rosie – Although a newcomer to Paris’ brasserie scene, Brasserie Rosie’s meals completely blew us away. The food was impeccable, the vibes and space were a beautiful fusion of French-nouveau mixed with upscale American dining, and the service was professional, friendly, and sexy. 53 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine, 11th Arr.
Coutume Café – This was one of my favorite expat-energized cafés. It has a little bit of everything for everyone. It’s the perfect match of cultures meeting to provide a meal, snack, coffee moment for all. 47 Rue de Babylone, 7th Arr.
La Fontaine de Mars – Ah, one of the absolute most quintessential Parisian dinner spots. This is just a classic! I went here after getting engaged to my husband, and it has since become a classic regular. Due to its growing fame, and that it is near the Eiffel Tower, it can feel a tad overwhelming with many tourists popping in. But I promise, it is the real deal and brings you an experience that is now hard to find in Paris. 129 Rue Saint-Dominique, 7th Arr.
L’Ami Jean – A lovely French lunch that begs all non-Europeans to fake it like you make it and take the dang 2-hour customary lunch break to fully unfold and be here. A bottle of wine is a must, and any dish on the menu will blow you away! Authentic, creative, and well-rounded menu options. You’ll love this spot, perfectly located near Hôtel des Invalides and close (but not too close) to the Eiffel Tower. 27 Rue Malar, 7th Arr.
Restaurant de La Mosquée de Paris – An absolute must to a) prioritize experiencing other religious/cultural stories in France, and b) an incredible opening of tradition to include anyone in a hot mint tea and almond-based dessert journey. Do this! 39 Rue Geoffroy-Saint-Hilaire, 5th Arr.
Raviolis Chinois Nord-Est – Someone once said you do not fully visit a city until you also visit its Chinatown neighborhood, and this holds true here. The dumplings are incredible in this hole-in-the-wall spot. A perfect meal to shake up the butter-flour heavy French cuisine, Raviolis Nord Est is inexpensive and has incredible craft behind the menu items. 115 Rue St. Denis and 11 Rue Civiale.
Want more suggestions on where to eat in Paris? Read about Maura’s favorite hidden gems in Philadelphia and the best Philly food trucks.
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