Insiders Guide to
Restaurants in Paris

neighborhood bistros, lively brasseries,
intimate cafés & Michelin-starred restaurants.

With so many restaurants in Paris, choosing where to eat – and finding the best ones – can make you dizzy!.

For us, staging our dinner reservations in Paris to meet our mood and appetite is almost a second job.

But here's the good news – you are welcome to use our hard-earned experience (well... actually it was fun), gained from eating in scores of Paris bistros, brasseries and cafés.

We've eaten at all these restaurants several times and have never been disappointed.

It's important to call the restaurant to confirm on the day of your reservation. (Or have your concierge call for you). Many restaurants in Paris require this. If you don't confirm, you may lose your reservation. We've seen it happen! And, yes, this means you must have reservations.

By the way, our Paris Gourmet Food eGuide has reviews of 70 of our recommended restaurants.

Luxury Paris Restaurants

A leisurely long lunch or dinner in a top-rated Paris restaurant will give you a taste of the good life.

There will be a bevy of servers, all silently tending to your every culinary need. The setting will be opulent and the food will be inspirational.

Reviews of Our Favorite Luxury Paris Restaurants »

Bistros, Brasseries and Cafés

They define the culinary landscape of the city and are a historical link to the past. Bistros, brasseries & cafés have been around for centuries in Paris, reaching back to 1686 when Procope served their first bowl of French onion soup.

Paris Insiders Faves – Bistros, Brasseries and Cafés »

Four Paris Chefs, plus One

Discover three stellar restaurants in Paris started twenty years ago by young chefs who shook the Paris culinary scene and still offer gourmet meals at bargain basement prices.

Also learn about a stunning newcomer!

Read More About The Chefs' Restaurants »

Paris Dining Etiquette

Knowing some basic French restaurant etiquette will make you feel more comfortable when dining at restaurants in Paris. For instance…

Waiters in restaurants in Paris do not fawn over their customers. Don't mistake this for poor service, it's just another fascinating cultural difference. Most restaurants in Paris are small, so if you need the server just catch her eye – never snap your fingers.

Garçon is not the name of your server. That means "boy" in French. Instead call your server either Monsieur, Madame or Mademoiselle. (Tip: Mademoiselle refers to a young woman, so if you want to make a friend, opt for Mademoiselle !)