Dining out: Round-up of My Favorite Restaurants in Paris

Something that on everyone’s mind at, at least, three times a day, is “what to eat”. And in Paris, there is certainly no lack of places to grab a bite. But, not all restaurant is created equal.

Here are some things to keep in mind while dining out in Paris (no matter the meal):

Try to avoid eating at restaurants around tourist attractions, they tend to be pricier than other places. There’s no sense in paying more for the same thing you can get around the corner.
If you don’t want to be charged for water, ask for a carafe d’eau. This is essentially tap water and is free. Some places will ask l’eau gazeuse, l’eau plat, l’eau municipale which is (bottled) sparkling water, (bottled), flat water, city water.
If you’re going out for lunch, check out le formule. This is a fixed-price menu with a smaller selection of dishes to choose from. Here’s some combinations that you can choose from:
- Entrée + Plat (Appetizer + Main dish)
- Plat + Desert (Main dish + Dessert)
- Entrée + Plat + Dessert (Appetizer + Main dish + Dessert)
Your server is not likely to hover. They will check on you once (if at all) after the main dishes have been delivered. If you’ll need anything, you’ll need to get their attention.
It is not necessary that you leave a tip on the bill. Tipping is not a part of the custom here. but if you feel included to give a few Euros to your server, they will appreciate it.
Since Covid happened, restaurants are more apt to offer reservations. If you’re going out to dinner, and if it isn’t on the early side, it is recommended to make a reservation ahead of time.

The Top Contenders

Monbleu

Known for their massive cheese collection, this place is heaven for any cheese lover. They have a cheese board option on their menu that is the unsung star. You have the small, medium and large option and for each board, you have a selection of cheeses that you choose from and some surprise options that are chosen by the chef.

There are 3 locations:

Faubourg Montmartre: 37 Rue du Faubourg Montmartre, 75009 Paris. 0145892396
Le Comptoir: 12 Rue Dupetit-Thouars, 75003 Paris. 0148421629
Père Lacheese: 151 bis Rue de la Roquette, 75011 Paris. 0142507603

Le Petit Bouillon Pharamond

A classic French-style bouillon with a traditional menu that changes with the seasons. They do not take reservations and be prepared to wait in line. I highly recommend that if you are meeting other people, to show up around the same time. You will not be seated if your entire party is not there.

24 Rue de la Grande Truanderie, 75001 Paris.
0140284518

Colline d’Asie – Del Sarte

Family run restaurant that serves classic Cambodian dishes at the foot of Montmartre. The dining room is tiny, but don’t let that intimidate you. Get there early if you want to get a table. You’ll want to try the Bobun or the Curry Khmer, both extremely delicious and copious. They’ve also opened their second shop that is a little more modern and serves bomb bahn-mi sandwiches and bubble tea.

21 Rue André del Sarte, 75018 Paris
0155791682

Comptoir de la Gastronomie

Part wine shop, part epicerie, and part restaurant, there is something for everyone. My husband and I love to buy our foie gras, smoked salmon, and champagne here for special dinners that we have and we also love to dine here. The staff whether you are there to shop or eat are extremely knowledgable and can help with any questions.

34 Rue Montmartre, 75001 Paris
0142333132

Le Poulbot

Just tucked around the corner from the Place de Tertre lies a family-owned gem of a restaurant. You will definitely need to make a reservation at this place if you want to eat here. They serve traditional plats that have been revisited by the chef, they buy product that is fresh and in season and they serve wine that compliments every dish. You will not be disappointed with this restaurant! I love eating here any season, but during the warmer months are my favorite. You can sit out front at a little table on the cobblestone street and watch the hustle and bustle of Montmarte go by all the while enjoying fantastically created dishes.

3 Rue Poulbot, 75018 Paris
0142233207

Le Saint-Regis

A classic brasserie on the île Saint Louis is not to be missed. The ambiance, staff, patrons, and menu bring this corner establishment to Parisian life. Their breakfast is not to be looked past either! Serving a little bit of everything that embodies French brasserie cuisine, you will be able to find something that tickles your fancy.

6 Rue Jean du Bellay, 75004 Paris
0143545941

Here's my full collection of Parisian Restaurants:

Do you have any favorite Parisian restaurants you’d add to the list? Leave a comment on the post below and let me know! I’m always on the lookout for new and exciting places to try.