It’s an unfortunate reality that the closer you are to a major monument in Paris, the worse the food tends to be. But fear not! There are a few gems within spitting distance of can’t-miss sites in Paris – and as of right now, they’re no longer a secret.
The Louvre is the world’s largest museum: with over 38,000 works (on display alone), a wander through can take several hours – and leave you super hangry. Luckily, there are several places within a few minutes’ walk from this behemoth.
Less than 5 Minutes Away
If you’re starving right now, look away from the Louvre food court and walk straight to Angelina (226 Rue de Rivoli). This famous tea house is best known for its African hot chocolate, which I recommend ordering with a fruit tartlet to cut some of the richness. If you’re looking for more substantial fare, Angelina does do croque monsieurs, but I also love the baked goods at Baguett’s (33 Rue de Richelieu), which also serves filter coffee and a great brunch on weekends.
The Louvre is also very close to the rue Saint-Anne, where there are tons of Japanese options. One of my favorites, Restaurant Zen (8 Rue de l’Échelle) is even closer and has excellent ramen and Japanese curry.
The Louvre is also opened at night on Wednesdays and Fridays, which means that a post-museum meal might be better served with a drink (or two). I love Le Garde-Robe (41 Rue de l’Arbre Sec) for its selection of natural wines and small plates.
10 Minutes Away
If you’re willing to walk a teeny bit further, a few more options are in store. Ellsworth (34 Rue de Richelieu) is one of my standbys in this neighborhood: its shared small plates change with the seasons but always feature American-born chef Braden Perkins’ famous fried chicken.
For a similar vibe with a more British twist, Juveniles (47 Rue de Richelieu) is the place to go. Folks who are more comfortable with the appetizer-main-dessert menu than with market-driven small plates (like my husband) will love this wine bar/restaurant. My favorite thing on the menu? Haggis.
Also about a ten minutes’ walk away is the former market quarter of Les Halles. While the market is no more, a few restaurants from this time remain, including the infamous Au Pied de Cochon (6 Rue Coquillière), one of Paris’ only 24-hour restaurants and home to a truly exquisite French onion soup.
Also in the Les Halles neighborhood is Champeaux (rue Rambuteau), a new restaurant from chef Alain Ducasse that plays into the myth of this neighborhood, with an old name (in reference to a restaurant that once stood here) and a very modern look. The soufflés are the most famous thing on the menu here, and they absolutely live up to the hype.
15-20 Minutes Away (But Worth the Trek)
Located within one of the covered passages that dot the right bank, Racines (8, passage des Panoramas) features an ever-changing menu influenced by Italian terroir and natural wines – just bear in mind that it’s closed on the weekends.
The Country Boy’s pick for my 30th birthday is certainly a special occasion treat: Benoit (20, rue Saint Martin) is a Michelin-starred bistro with a truly classic feel.
This list wouldn’t be complete without a nod to Frenchie bar à vins (6, Rue du Nil), the restaurant I love so much I’ve written about it not once but twice. Small plates, wine, and a slightly-open kitchen make this a dining experience to remember.
Did I forget one of your favorites? Let me know in the comments!