Are you a traveler who loves to try and taste the culinary offerings in tourist areas? Paris is renowned for its culinary delights, and no visit to the French capital is complete without dining at one of its iconic brasseries. These traditional French eateries offer a unique blend of casual dining, delicious cuisine, and a charming ambiance that captures the essence of Parisian life.
From classic dishes like escargots and steak frites to elegant interiors that evoke the Belle Époque era, Parisian brasseries are a must-visit for food lovers. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best brasseries in Paris, where you can enjoy authentic French fare and soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
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What are Brasseries?
A brasserie is a type of French restaurant that offers a casual dining experience with a focus on traditional French cuisine. The word “brasserie” originally referred to a brewery, and these establishments were places where people could enjoy a drink and a simple meal. Over time, brasseries evolved into full-service restaurants that serve a wide range of dishes, often featuring classic French fare.
Best Brasseries in Paris
Brasserie Lipp
Located in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Brasserie Lipp is one of Paris’s most famous and historic brasseries. Established in 1880, this legendary spot has attracted intellectuals, artists, and politicians for decades. The brasserie’s interior is a beautiful reflection of the Belle Époque era, with its mosaic-tiled floors, mirrored walls, and red leather banquettes.
Signature dishes at Brasserie Lipp include choucroute garnie (Alsatian sauerkraut with sausages and pork), cassoulet (a rich bean and meat stew), and tartare de boeuf (steak tartare). With its rich history and classic French menu, Brasserie Lipp is a quintessential Parisian dining experience.
Le Select
Situated in the lively Montparnasse district, Le Select has been a gathering place for writers, artists, and intellectuals since its opening in 1925. Frequented by the likes of Hemingway and Picasso, this brasserie has retained its timeless charm, offering a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Le Select is known for its traditional French dishes, including croque-monsieur, onion soup, and coq au vin. The brasserie also boasts a fantastic selection of oysters and other seafood. Whether you’re here for a leisurely breakfast, a business lunch, or a late-night meal, Le Select offers a warm and authentic Parisian experience.
La Coupole
Another Montparnasse institution, La Coupole is perhaps the most famous brasserie in Paris. Opened in 1927, this Art Deco masterpiece has hosted countless celebrities and remains a popular destination for both locals and tourists. With its grand hall, impressive columns, and colorful murals, La Coupole exudes a glamorous yet welcoming vibe.
The brasserie is best known for its seafood, particularly the plateau de fruits de mer (seafood platter), featuring oysters, shrimp, crab, and more. Other classic dishes include lamb curry, beef bourguignon, and foie gras. A meal at La Coupole is as much about the ambiance as it is about the food, making it a must-visit on any trip to Paris.
Le Relais de l’Entrecôte
For those seeking a simple yet indulgent meal, Le Relais de l’Entrecôte is a brasserie that specializes in just one dish: steak frites. This iconic establishment, with multiple locations in Paris, has perfected the art of serving perfectly cooked steak with a generous helping of crispy fries. What sets Le Relais de l’Entrecôte apart is its secret sauce—a rich, buttery concoction that elevates the steak to new heights.
The dining experience here is straightforward yet satisfying. After enjoying a fresh green salad with walnuts, your server will bring you your steak frites, and once you’ve finished your first serving, you’ll be offered a second helping. With its focus on quality and consistency, Le Relais de l’Entrecôte is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Bouillon Chartier
If you’re looking for a brasserie that combines affordability with history, Bouillon Chartier is the place to go. Established in 1896, this iconic brasserie in the 9th arrondissement has been serving up traditional French fare at reasonable prices for over a century. The interior, with its high ceilings, brass accents, and communal tables, transports you back in time to the golden age of Paris.
The menu at Bouillon Chartier features classic dishes such as escargots, blanquette de veau (veal stew), and duck confit, all at wallet-friendly prices. The lively atmosphere and efficient service make it a popular choice for both tourists and Parisians. Whether you’re on a budget or simply want to experience a slice of Parisian history, Bouillon Chartier is a fantastic option.
Brasserie Bofinger
Located near Place de la Bastille, Brasserie Bofinger is often hailed as one of the most beautiful brasseries in Paris. Founded in 1864, this Alsatian-style brasserie is known for its stunning Art Nouveau interior, complete with a glass dome, intricate woodwork, and elegant banquettes.
Bofinger is famous for its Alsatian specialties, including choucroute (sauerkraut with various meats) and tarte flambée (a thin-crust pizza-like dish topped with cream, onions, and bacon). The brasserie also offers an excellent selection of seafood and traditional French dishes. Dining at Bofinger is a feast for both the eyes and the palate, making it a memorable part of any Parisian adventure.
Brasserie Mollard
Located near the Gare Saint-Lazare, Brasserie Mollard has been a fixture in Paris since 1867. This elegant brasserie is known for its exquisite Art Nouveau décor, featuring intricate mosaics, stained glass, and marble columns. The atmosphere at Mollard is both sophisticated and welcoming, making it a popular spot for travelers and locals alike.
The menu offers a range of classic French dishes, with a focus on seafood. Oysters, lobster, and sea bass are just a few of the specialties that draw diners to Mollard. The brasserie also offers traditional French desserts like crème brûlée and tarte Tatin. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely lunch or a romantic dinner, Brasserie Mollard provides a quintessential Parisian dining experience.
Well, you have many choices for the best brasseries in Paris for your next trip. Don’t worry if you are a first-time visitor, just try and feel the different culinary vibes of Paris. Hopefully, you will have a wonderful vacation there.
