I’ve tried many bouillons in Paris, from the gorgeous, historic Bouillon Julien to the relative newcomer Bouillon Pigalle. My most recent foray into the category was Le Petit Bouillon Pharamond, a mainstay of the neighborhood around Les Halles since 1832 specializing in food from Normandy. And despite my worries that it might be a tourist trap, it proved fairly enjoyable… provided you’ve done a bit of research ahead of time.
Author: emiglia
Cloche Is a Place to See, Be Seen, and Eat Good Beef
Cloche serves modern plays on classic French bistro dishes in a dimly-lit, see-and-be-seen dining room perfect for a Fashion Week crowd.
FIEF’s Mission is Clear, but There’s Some Fumbling on the Execution
Stalwartly locavore, 1-Michelin-star FIEF prides itself on sourcing all of its ingredients from the hexagon – which means no coffee, no chocolate, and no vanilla. Instead Chef Victor Mercier takes full advantage of the bounty of France’s terroir to craft a tasting menu featuring surprising and audacious flavor combos, most of which take inspiration from French classics with a slight Asian twist.
Le Café du Commerce Continues in a Long Parisian Tradition
Along a vibrant shopping street at the edge of the 15th arrondissement, le Café du Commerce shows that Parisian tradition is alive and well, as flirtatious, black-vested waiters serve classics of French cuisine at tables arranged on three stories of mosaic tiled floors surrounding an airy, impressive atrium.
La Coupole is a Vibe… And a Step Out of Time
This Montparnasse mainstay dates back to 1927 and was a favorite of many Lost Generation writers and famous 20th century artists. Today, it still boasts major art déco vibes and surprisingly creative seafood appetizers alongside a massive seafood offering.
Bofinger is a Brasserie Gem Out of Time
This brasserie dating back to the 19th century serves copious, delicious Alsatian fare and seafood seven days a week.
NHOMe’s Boundary-Pushing Cuisine Nevertheless Remains Rooted in Comfort
This fine dining spot steps from the Palais Royal is helmed by the French-Israeli Chef Matan Zaken. The convivial dining room is located in a beautiful vaulted cellar, where guests pull up a chair at a massive, 20-seat table to feast on a 140-euro nine-course tasting.
Hôtel du Nord Nearly Delivers a Lovely Bistro Experience in a Storied Setting
The appetizers are pitch perfect at this restaurant, and while I have some quibbles with the rest, the slight missteps can easily be overlooked, especially if you want to eat in this storied dining room or indeed at a table outside with a view of the Canal.
All Aboard Le Train Bleu for an Old-School French Dining Experience
This majestic, historic restaurant was first founded in 1900, at the time of the World’s Fair. Today, it oozes luxury and is the perfect place to indulge in tableside service of specialties like steak tartare, roast lamb’s leg, or crêpes suzette.
Le Petit Vendôme is Way More than Just Sandwiches
Le Petit Vendôme is a bistro dans son jus, an old-school spot walking the walk. The tables are far too close together; you need to shout to be heard. And that’s half the fun.