The Ultimate Paris Food Guide: Where to Eat, Drink & Indulge in the City of Lights
Welcome to our comprehensive Paris food guide, born from three glorious, food-filled days spent exploring the enchanting streets of the French capital. This guide is a curation of our most memorable bites, cherished pastry shops, and top restaurant recommendations, designed to help you navigate the rich culinary landscape of Paris. To make your food adventure even easier, we’ve created a custom, navigational Google map containing all these incredible spots and many more. You can access it directly by clicking here. Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable journey!
Back in May, my partner Connor and I embarked on a delightful short trip to Paris, France. It always takes a bit of time to meticulously sort through countless photos and compile these comprehensive guides, but today, I am thrilled to finally share our absolute best bites and most cherished recommendations from the City of Lights! Paris has long held a special place on my travel bucket list, especially since I graduated from French culinary school five years ago. My very first visit to France was over two decades ago, and it’s safe to say my palate has evolved dramatically since those early days, making this return trip a truly gourmet experience.
Travel is one of our greatest shared passions. Given Connor’s incredibly demanding work schedule, we make it a point to plan at least one significant international trip together each year. Rather than exchanging anniversary, birthday, or holiday gifts, we invest in experiences and create lasting memories by exploring new destinations. As a helpful note, Connor has become an expert at accumulating free airline miles, which significantly helps make these adventures possible! If you’re interested in learning his tips and tricks for travel hacking, please let me know in the comment section below, and we’d be happy to share our insights.
For this particular trip, we decided to first immerse ourselves in the tranquil beauty of the sleepy village towns of Provence, France, spending five nights exploring its picturesque landscapes and charming markets. Following this serene experience, we then journeyed to Paris for the dynamic final leg of our adventure. Our base in Paris was a cozy studio apartment Airbnb, perfectly situated in the vibrant Marais district. This proved to be an exceptional home base, allowing us to effortlessly explore the city’s myriad attractions predominantly on foot. The Marais itself is a treasure trove of culinary delights, boasting an abundance of excellent restaurants, bustling cafes, and exquisite pastry shops, making it an ideal neighborhood for any food lover.
Our days in Paris were, without exaggeration, entirely dedicated to food. We quite literally ate our way through the city, savoring every delightful morsel. Thankfully, our extensive walking helped to balance out some of the indulgence! I always dedicate a substantial amount of time to research before any trip, and for Paris, this preparation was exceptionally thorough. I’m almost a little sheepish to admit the sheer number of pastry shops, chocolatiers, and culinary establishments we had flagged on our custom Google map. However, this meticulous planning undeniably paid off, leading us to some truly exceptional finds.
Planning your own culinary journey? Access a free, navigational ‘Best Bites Paris Edition’ Google map by clicking here. This map includes even more places than we’ve shared in this post (including some we didn’t get a chance to visit), serving as an invaluable starting point for your own Parisian food adventure.
For additional resources on where to eat and what to do in Paris, please refer to the bottom of this post, where we’ve compiled a list of helpful links.
While this list is by no means exhaustive, it represents the absolute highlights of our gastronomic exploration. If you’re planning a trip to Paris in the near future, I wholeheartedly recommend adding at least one, if not several, of these exceptional culinary destinations to your itinerary. They truly embody the essence of Parisian food culture.
Essential Pastry Shops and Bakeries in Paris
Paris is synonymous with exquisite pastries and freshly baked bread. Exploring its historic and contemporary bakeries is a vital part of any visit. From flaky croissants to delicate macarons, these establishments offer a taste of true French artistry.
Travel Tip: Timing is Everything for Pastries!
To experience these pastry shops at their absolute best and snag the freshest, straight-from-the-oven delights, I highly recommend making your way to most of these spots by 10 AM at the very latest. Trust us, your early efforts will be gloriously rewarded with warm, fragrant, and perfectly textured treats!
Stohrer – A Timeless Parisian Institution
(51, rue Montorgueil, 2nd Arrondissement) – As one of the oldest bakeries in Paris, established in 1730, Stohrer is an experience in itself. Even if you only pop your head in, you’ll be captivated by its breathtakingly beautiful interior, adorned with intricate frescoes, and the display of impeccable pastries that look like edible jewels. While their baba au rhum is legendary, Connor and I indulged in a freshly baked kouign-amann, and it was undeniably one of the most incredible bites of our entire trip. The layers were earth-shatteringly flaky, intensely buttery, and perfectly caramelized – a masterpiece of pastry engineering. It was, without exaggeration, one of the best pastries I have ever had. Truly, you cannot go wrong with anything you choose here.
Du Pain Et Des Idees – Artisanal Bread and Pastry Perfection
(34, rue Yves Toudic, 10th Arrondissement) – Another incredibly beautiful and famously Parisian bakery, established in 1889, Du Pain Et Des Idees is revered for its artisanal homemade breads, particularly their iconic pain des amis and various cereal breads. Their croissants are also highly celebrated for their perfect flakiness and buttery aroma, as are their unique pistachio escargot pastries. I strongly recommend visiting this spot early in the morning to ensure you get the pastries at their freshest, right as they emerge from the oven. While we found other places offered slightly superior pastries on this trip, the visit here was absolutely worthwhile. The interior, though tiny, is stunningly beautiful and steeped in classic Parisian charm. Conveniently, it’s also located just blocks away from Holybelly Cafe, which became one of our favorite breakfast spots in the city.
Pain Pain – Award-Winning Baguettes in Montmartre
(88 rue des Martyrs, Montmartre) – This bakery was a delightful, unexpected discovery we stumbled upon during our leisurely walk back from Sacré-Coeur. Such serendipitous finds are precisely why walking everywhere in Paris truly pays off! Unlike many of the more established bakeries featured in this guide, Pain Pain has only been open since 2012, but in that short time, it has already achieved significant acclaim, winning the prestigious Grand Prix de la Baguette award twice. If your explorations lead you to the charming neighborhood of Montmartre, I absolutely recommend popping in for a quick visit. While I regret not trying some of their exquisite pastries, we thoroughly enjoyed a delicious slice of quiche lorraine and a savory cornichon saucisson sandwich for lunch, both perfectly satisfying.
Maison Aleph – A Unique Middle Eastern Pastry Experience
(20 Rue de la Verrerie, Marais) – Maison Aleph was undoubtedly one of the most memorable and unique culinary stops in Paris. This distinctive pastry shop specializes in exquisite, bite-sized Middle Eastern inspired pastries, offering a delightful departure from traditional French sweets. Most of their pastries are crafted from crisp kataifi (shredded phyllo dough) and feature a diverse array of innovative fillings. We savored everything from fresh mango (boasting the purest mango flavor imaginable!) to delicate cardamom lemon curd, fragrant strawberry orange blossom, and rich rhubarb almond. These delicate creations are then artfully topped with various flavors of Normandy cream. They are incredibly delicious and unlike any other pastries we encountered in the city! I particularly loved the smaller size of these pastries, which allowed us the pleasure of trying a wide variety of flavors without feeling overwhelmed. Highly, highly recommend this unique gem.
Pierre Herme – The Master of Macarons
(72 Rue Bonaparte, 6th Arrondissement) – A quintessential Parisian experience not to be missed, Pierre Herme is unequivocally regarded as the home of the best and most creative macarons in the city. As someone who has never been particularly obsessed with macarons, I can now definitively declare that these were truly incredible and absolutely worth both the price tag and the visit. I highly recommend picking up a box to savor a variety of their exquisite flavors (they conveniently come in odd numbers, encouraging exploration!). You could even time your visit to bring a beautifully packaged box of these delicate treats home with you as a souvenir. We sampled an array of flavors, from their signature rose, lychee, and raspberry (simply excellent) to jasmine wild strawberry, rich passion fruit milk chocolate (so good), intriguing hazelnut asparagus (we couldn’t detect the asparagus, but it was delicious nonetheless), and fresh mint (one of my unexpected favorites). In hindsight, I wish we had also tried some of their other stunning pastries, as they are celebrated as some of the finest in Paris!
L’Eclair de Genie – The Art of the Eclair
(14 rue Pavee, Marais) – This modern and chic bakery is renowned for its stunningly beautiful and artfully crafted eclairs. We had the pleasure of meeting our friends, Lindsay and Taylor from Love and Olive Oil – who happened to be traveling in France at the same time – here for a quick afternoon pastry snack. We shared three eclairs amongst us, which, at that point in our food-filled trip, was probably the maximum I could handle! While I personally preferred the pastries from some of the other spots mentioned above, L’Eclair de Genie is definitely worth a visit if you have a craving for impeccably designed and beautifully decorated eclairs that are as much a feast for the eyes as for the palate.
Jacque Genin – A Chocolatier’s Dream
(133 Rue de Turenne, Marais) – Stepping into Jacques Genin’s shop is like entering a high-end jewelry boutique, but for sweets. The exquisite caramels, chocolates, pate de fruit, and other artisanal candies are displayed with such precision and elegance, it’s a true testament to the French dedication to culinary artistry. It’s worth visiting this famous chocolatier just to appreciate the serious reverence with which the French approach their pastries and chocolates. While we didn’t end up purchasing any chocolates during our visit (be prepared for premium prices!), I deeply regret not bringing a few home to savor later! Their caramels, in particular, are famously rich and nuanced, a true indulgence for any connoisseur.
Berthillon – Paris’s Iconic Gelato
(29-31 Rue Saint-Louis en l’Île, Ile Saint Louis) – Berthillon is hands down one of the most famous gelato shops in Paris, and for very good reason. While many restaurants and cafes across the city proudly serve Berthillon gelato, I highly recommend making the pilgrimage to their actual flagship shop on the charming Ile Saint Louis. Not only is its location fairly central – especially if you’re visiting iconic sights like Notre Dame or Sainte-Chapelle – but the island itself offers beautiful views and is perfect for a leisurely stroll. The gelato we enjoyed here was simply some of the best we’ve ever tasted, incredibly rich and bursting with natural flavor. To avoid lengthy queues, try to time your visit during an off-peak hour.
Casual Bites and Breakfast Spots for Every Palate
Sometimes, the best culinary discoveries are made in casual settings – a quick, delicious lunch or a hearty breakfast to fuel a day of exploration. Paris offers a fantastic array of laid-back eateries that deliver exceptional flavor without the fuss of fine dining.
L’as Du Fallafel – The Iconic Marais Falafel
(32-34 Rue des Rosiers, Marais) – This renowned falafel shop in the heart of the Marais District is almost always buzzing with activity, often featuring long lines stretching down the street. Our Airbnb apartment was conveniently located within mere feet of L’As Du Fallafel, so we naturally made time to grab one of their famous falafel sandwiches, generously topped with a spicy sauce. While the price point was unbeatable and the falafel itself was very good (and incredibly generous in its serving size!), we ultimately felt it was slightly overrated given the immense hype. Nevertheless, it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re in need of a quick, satisfying lunch, happen to find shorter lines, or are already exploring this vibrant area!
Frenchie To Go – Gourmet Casual Dining
(9 Rue du Nil, 2nd Arrondissement) – This casual breakfast and lunch spot, a brainchild of one of Paris’s most acclaimed chefs, is tucked away in a quiet, unassuming alley in the 2nd arrondissement. I received a glowing recommendation for Frenchie To Go from a friend, and it certainly lived up to expectations. We shared a fantastic breakfast featuring delicious eggs Benedict with spinach and an exceptionally tasty homemade granola yogurt bowl. While you’re in the area, be sure to dedicate a few minutes to exploring the charming fish market, the specialty food market, and the other Frenchie restaurants and shops that populate this delightful street. It’s a true foodie haven.
Holybelly Cafe – Our Favorite Paris Breakfast
(5 Rue Lucien Sampaix, 10th Arrondissement) – Holybelly Cafe quickly became our undisputed favorite breakfast spot, and indeed, one of our most cherished meals overall in Paris! This trendy, Instagrammable cafe is famous for its outstanding American-style pancakes – truly some of the best I’ve ever had – and expertly prepared egg dishes. The coffee here was also a revelation; sadly, much of the coffee we encountered elsewhere in France was underwhelming, making Holybelly’s quality stand out even more. I wholeheartedly and emphatically recommend taking the time to visit this gem while you’re in the city. The food is consistently excellent, and the vibrant, welcoming atmosphere adds to the delightful experience, making it a perfect start to any Parisian day.
Top Restaurants and Bistros for Authentic Parisian Dining
From lively, traditional bistros to innovative culinary spaces, Paris offers a dining experience for every taste. These restaurants provided us with truly memorable evenings, showcasing the diversity and excellence of French cuisine.
Travel Tip: Dining Reservations in Paris
For our dinners in Paris, we opted for more casual, bistro-style restaurants instead of expensive, multi-course Michelin-star establishments. However, if you are looking for additional ideas, the resources at the bottom of this post provide excellent recommendations. A general tip: securing reservations for slightly earlier dining times (between 6:30 PM and 8:00 PM) in Paris is usually easier than for later in the evening (8:30 PM onwards), as dining late is a common French custom. Plan ahead to ensure your spot!
Bistrot Paul Bert – The Quintessential Parisian Bistro Experience
(22 Rue Paul Bert, 11th Arrondissement) – Hands down, this was the single best meal we had in Paris. Bistrot Paul Bert is widely regarded as one of the finest bistros in the city, and in our opinion, it not only lived up to its formidable reputation but exceeded all expectations. While their general menu rotates daily to reflect the freshest seasonal ingredients, they consistently feature their famous steak au poivre (peppercorn steak). Every dish we sampled was exquisite, and their seafood was remarkably fresh. However, the steak… oh, the steak was truly incredible. It undeniably lived up to the hype and was, quite literally, one of the best things I have ever tasted. The atmosphere, the attentive service, and the classic Parisian ambiance all contributed to a perfectly memorable evening. Given its immense popularity, I highly recommend booking a reservation one to two weeks in advance of your visit (note: this cannot be done online, so be sure to call directly!).
Breizh Cafe – Savory and Sweet Crepes Done Right
(109 Rue Vieille du Temple, Marais) – It’s an interesting tidbit that this casual restaurant, which now boasts several locations, actually began its journey in Tokyo, Japan. While the atmosphere at Breizh Cafe isn’t overly memorable or lavish, this eatery is celebrated for its incredibly delicious savory and sweet buckwheat crepes (galettes). We thoroughly enjoyed a relaxed, casual dinner here one evening. The crepes were outstanding and offered an impressive variety of fillings. We particularly loved the classic Parisian combination of smoked herring, potatoes, crème fraîche, and herring caviar. It’s definitely worth a visit for either lunch or dinner if you’re seeking a casual, yet authentic and satisfying, dining option. Reservations are recommended and can be conveniently made in advance online.
Au Passage – Creative Small Plates with a Lively Vibe
(1bis Passage Saint-Sébastien, 3rd Arrondissement) – This unique and dynamic restaurant, founded by a Texan chef, is celebrated for its creative, seasonal small plates. The atmosphere at Au Passage is lively, comfortably casual, and wonderfully friendly, creating an inviting space for an enjoyable meal. The dishes are not only artfully presented but also reasonably priced for the quality. The menu is constantly evolving to reflect the freshest ingredients and seasonal inspirations, which makes it a truly exciting spot to visit if you’re looking to diversify your Parisian dining experiences. It offered a refreshing change of pace from our more traditional bistro-style meals. Reservations are highly recommended and can be easily made online through their website.
Bistroy Les Papilles – Cozy French Family-Style Dining
(30 Rue Gay-Lussac, Latin Quarter) – Bistroy Les Papilles is a highly regarded classic bistro in Paris, offering a delightfully reasonable (approximately 31 euros) pre-fixe 4-course menu that changes daily. This unique dining experience features generously portioned family-style French cuisine served in an intimate, cozy, and rustic setting. While this spot might not be ideal if you prefer having a choice of individual dishes, we thoroughly enjoyed our meal here and the charming concept. Be prepared to select a bottle of wine from their extensive and well-curated selection on display, or bring your own (though expect a corkage fee). Reservations are highly recommended and can be conveniently made online through their website.
Specialty Food Shops and Culinary Boutiques
Beyond restaurants and bakeries, Paris is also a haven for specialty food shops and culinary boutiques, perfect for finding unique gifts, high-quality ingredients, or simply admiring the craftsmanship that goes into French food culture.
E.Dehillerin – A Cookware Enthusiast’s Paradise
This legendary cookware shop is world-renowned for its vast and impressive selection of high-quality copper cookware. The atmosphere inside is wonderfully classic and old-school, a step back in time. Be prepared to look up prices of items by code in a formidable, large binder, adding to the charm. You’ll discover almost every pastry mold, specialized tool, and kitchen utensil imaginable here. Tip: If you make a significant purchase, the shop conveniently provides a very easy-to-use refund tax form to scan at the airport on your way home, making your valuable purchase even sweeter.
Librairie Gourmande – For the Culinary Bibliophile
If you’re searching for an extensive collection of French cookbooks, culinary magazines, or other food-related publications, this charming bookstore is an absolute delight to pop into! It’s a fantastic place to find inspiration, learn new techniques, or simply browse through the beautiful world of French gastronomy through literature.
Shakespeare and Company – A Literary Landmark
While not a food spot, this unique, quirky bookstore is an iconic Parisian landmark, home to a huge selection of English publications. If you happen to be in the area near Notre Dame, I highly recommend peeking into this store, even if just for a few minutes, to soak in its bohemian charm and rich literary history. Just remember that photographs are generally not allowed inside, allowing you to truly be present in the moment.
Other Favorites & Must-See Attractions
Beyond the culinary delights, Paris offers a wealth of cultural and historical treasures. Here’s one of our absolute favorite non-food experiences that made our trip even more magical.
Sainte-Chapelle – A Symphony of Stained Glass
If you can visit only one church or basilica during your time in Paris, I would unequivocally choose Sainte-Chapelle above every other option! It is stunningly beautiful on the inside – pictures truly cannot do it justice – and well worth the admission price. The entrance fee also has the added benefit of naturally deterring some of the larger tourist crowds, allowing for a more serene experience. Be absolutely sure to pick a clear, sunny day for your visit; this is when the magnificent stained glass windows truly come alive, bathing the interior in a kaleidoscopic display of vibrant light and color. It’s a breathtaking, almost ethereal experience.
Additional Resources for Your Paris Culinary Journey
To further enhance your planning, here are some excellent resources that offer even more insights into the incredible food scene in Paris:
- David Lebovitz’s Paris Restaurant Guides
- Paris Eats
- Heartbeet Kitchen – A Paris Vacation Without Plans
- Well Plated – What to Eat In Paris
- Love and Olive Oil – Paris Eats
- Grandbaby Cakes – Where to Eat and The Best Paris Sweets
And remember, for a comprehensive, custom Google map that includes all the fantastic places mentioned above (and many more!), simply click here. Bon appétit and happy travels!
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