Top 10 des restaurants parisiens proposant une cuisine française authentique

Reservation Tips:

• Book Ahead (Especially Weekends): For most of these, especially bistros, it’s wise to book a table online or by phone a few days to a week in advance.
• “Bouillons”: These historic, large, and bustling restaurants typically do not take reservations for small parties and operate on a first-come, first-served basis, often with queues.
• Service Continu: Some brasseries offer continuous service throughout the day, so you can eat at off-peak hours (e.g., 3 PM or 4 PM) to avoid crowds.

Ordering Like a Local:

• “Bonjour!” & “Merci!”: Always greet and thank staff. A simple “Bonjour” when entering and “Merci, au revoir” when leaving goes a long way.
• “Une carafe d’eau s’il vous plaît”: Ask for a free carafe of tap water. Bottled water is extra.
• “Menu du Jour / Formule”: For lunch, look for the “menu du jour” (daily menu) or “formule” (set menu, typically 2 or 3 courses). These offer excellent value.
• Wine: Don’t be afraid to order “un pichet” (a pitcher) of house wine (vin de la maison or vin du patron) – it’s usually delicious and affordable.
• “L’addition s’il vous plaît”: Ask for the bill. It won’t be brought automatically.
• Tipping: Service is included in France. A small tip (a few euros) for excellent service is appreciated but not mandatory.

1. Au Pied de Cochon

• Why it’s famous: A historic, bustling brasserie established in 1947, located in the former Les Halles market district. It’s known for its classic French dishes, seafood platters, and being open 24/7.
• Specialties: Famous for its Soupe à l’Oignon Gratinée (French Onion Soup), which is rich, cheesy, and perfect anytime. Also known for its pig-themed dishes, like the eponymous “Pied de Cochon” (pig’s trotter).
• Atmosphere: Lively, grand, classic Parisian brasserie with a beautiful Belle Époque interior.
• Average Price Point: Mid-range (€€€, around €30-50 per main).
• Location: 6 Rue Coquillière, 75001 Paris (Les Halles).
• Reservation Tip: Takes reservations, but often has space for walk-ins given its size and 24/7 service.

2. Le Relais de l’Entrecôte

• Why it’s famous: An iconic Parisian institution that serves a single menu: walnut salad, followed by perfectly cooked Steak Frites with their famous secret sauce, served in two generous portions (and unlimited fries!).
• Specialties: Steak Frites (the only main course!).
• Atmosphere: Bustling, no-frills, efficient. Expect a queue before opening or at peak times, but it moves quickly.
• Average Price Point: Mid-range (€€, around €30-40 for the set menu).
• Location: Multiple locations (e.g., Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Marbeuf near Champs-Élysées).
• Reservation Tip: Does not take reservations. Arrive early or be prepared to queue.

3. Bouillon Chartier

• Why it’s famous: A legendary “bouillon” restaurant established in 1896. These grand, historic eateries serve traditional French fare at incredibly affordable prices in a bustling, no-frills setting. Waiters in black vests scribble orders directly on tablecloths.
• Specialties: Classic dishes like Boeuf Bourguignon, Steak Frites, Soupe à l’Oignon, Confit de Canard, and various seafood and meat options. Don’t forget the Crème Brûlée for dessert.
• Atmosphere: Iconic, lively, noisy, communal, and fast-paced. A true Parisian experience.
• Average Price Point: Very affordable (€, mains often €10-18).
• Location: 7 Rue du Faubourg Montmartre, 75009 Paris (Grands Boulevards).
• Reservation Tip: No reservations. Expect a queue, especially for dinner. Go for lunch or at off-peak times to minimize wait.
• Other Bouillons: Bouillon Pigalle and Bouillon République are popular newer additions that follow the same concept.

4. Bistrot Paul Bert

• Why it’s famous: A beloved, classic Parisian bistro that consistently earns rave reviews for its high-quality, seasonal French comfort food. It embodies the authentic bistro experience.
• Specialties: Known for its traditional bistro fare, including an excellent Steak au Poivre (pepper steak) or Steak Frites, often-lauded seafood dishes (like scallops), and a famous Grand Marnier Soufflé for dessert. The menu changes regularly based on market availability.
• Atmosphere: Cozy, warm, unpretentious, bustling.
• Average Price Point: Mid to high-range (€€€, ~€40-60+ for a main, set menus available).
• Location: 18 Rue Paul Bert, 75011 Paris (11th Arrondissement).
• Reservation Tip: Highly recommended to book well in advance, especially for dinner.

5. Chez Janou

• Why it’s famous: A charming and lively bistro with a Provençal accent, known for its fantastic atmosphere and delicious, authentic French dishes with a southern twist.
• Specialties: Excellent Confit de Canard, hearty Provençal stews, and their famous chocolate mousse (served from a giant bowl – you can take as much as you like!).
• Atmosphere: Bustling, convivial, rustic-chic. Lively in the evenings.
• Average Price Point: Mid-range (€€, around €20-40 per main).
• Location: 2 Rue Roger Verlomme, 75003 Paris (Le Marais).
• Reservation Tip: Highly recommended, especially for dinner.

6. L’Escargot Montorgueil

• Why it’s famous: A historic restaurant dedicated almost entirely to Escargots de Bourgogne (snails). Established in 1832, its ornate interiors exude old-world charm.
• Specialties: Of course, Escargots in various preparations (the classic garlic-parsley butter, Roquefort, truffle, curry). Also serves other traditional French mains.
• Atmosphere: Classic, elegant, a bit touristy but charming.
• Average Price Point: Mid to high-range (€€€, around €30-50 per main).
• Location: 38 Rue Montorgueil, 75001 Paris (Les Halles/Montorgueil).
• Reservation Tip: Recommended for dinner.

7. La Fontaine de Mars

• Why it’s famous: One of the oldest bistros in Paris (established 1908), famed for its traditional Southwestern French cuisine and classic, timeless ambiance. It’s particularly popular with American visitors (famously frequented by Barack Obama).
• Specialties: Robust dishes like Confit de Canard, Cassoulet (a rich bean and meat stew), and a well-regarded Crème Brûlée.
• Atmosphere: Quintessential Parisian bistro, with red checkered tablecloths, white walls, and a cozy, inviting feel.
• Average Price Point: Mid to high-range (€€€, around €35-60 per main).
• Location: 129 Rue Saint-Dominique, 75007 Paris (near Eiffel Tower).
• Reservation Tip: Essential to book several weeks in advance, especially for dinner.

8. Chez Dumonet – Josephine

• Why it’s famous: A beloved, old-school Parisian bistro from the Belle Époque era, renowned for its generous portions of classic French specialties. It’s often cited as a benchmark for traditional French cooking.
• Specialties: Famous for its Boeuf Bourguignon (served in a large copper pot, often for two), Duck Confit, and a delectable Grand Marnier Soufflé that requires pre-ordering.
• Atmosphere: Charming, slightly formal but welcoming, with white tablecloths and attentive service. Feels like a step back in time.
• Average Price Point: High-end bistro (€€€€, €50-80+ per main).
• Location: 117 Rue du Cherche-Midi, 75006 Paris (Saint-Germain-des-Prés).
• Reservation Tip: Essential to book well in advance.

9. Le Bouillon Chartier (Gare de l’Est)

• Why it’s famous: Another authentic “bouillon” experience, similar to its sister restaurant in Grands Boulevards. Offers the same excellent value and classic French dishes in a grand, historic setting near Gare de l’Est train station.
• Specialties: Identical menu to the original Bouillon Chartier, with focus on French staples like Steak Frites, Confit de Canard, Soupe à l’Oignon, and various plats du jour.
• Atmosphere: Lively, bustling, traditional, and very affordable.
• Average Price Point: Very affordable (€, mains often €10-18).
• Location: 5 Rue du 8 Mai 1945, 75010 Paris (near Gare de l’Est).
• Reservation Tip: No reservations. Expect queues, especially for dinner.

10. Les Arlots

• Why it’s famous: A modern take on the traditional bistro, often described as a “neo-bistro.” It offers a curated menu of refined classic dishes with a focus on natural wines.
• Specialties: The menu changes frequently but typically features high-quality meat dishes (e.g., exceptional sausages, steak), seasonal vegetables, and well-executed French comfort food. Their Boudin Noir (blood sausage) is often highlighted.
• Atmosphere: Intimate, cozy, friendly, lively.
• Average Price Point: Mid-range (€€€, around €30-50 per main).
• Location: 136 Rue du Faubourg Poissonnière, 75010 Paris (10th Arrondissement).
• Reservation Tip: Highly recommended due to its small size and popularity.

Enjoy your delicious journey through the authentic flavors of Paris!