Paris, the City of Lights, is known for its rich cultural heritage and exquisite cuisine. If you find yourself exploring the iconic Louvre Museum, why not take part in a culinary adventure and experience the finest French gastronomy nearby? Here is my list of the five best French restaurants near Louvre that promise an unforgettable dining experience, where you can savor traditional flavors, innovative creations, and impeccable service. From Michelin-starred establishments to charming bistros, these culinary gems near the Louvre are sure to delight your taste buds and immerse you in the gastronomic wonders of Paris. Join me on a journey through the vibrant world of French cuisine as I guide you to these exceptional dining destinations.
Before you read, you should know, those restaurants are pricey. But hey, treat yourself, especially if you came from far away and Paris was alway in your dreams. You deserve it.
Let’s go!
Le Grand Véfour
Michelin-starred restaurant located at 17 Rue de Beaujolais just 8 minutes away from Louvre, is a historic and highly acclaimed French restaurant in Paris. It has a rich history dating back to 1784 and has been frequented by notable figures such as Napoleon Bonaparte, Victor Hugo, and Colette.
One interesting fact about Le Grand Véfour is that it is said to have inspired the famous play “Cyrano de Bergerac” by Edmond Rostand. The restaurant’s extravagant and romantic setting is believed to have influenced the creation of the play’s famous balcony scene.
When it comes to the best dish at Le Grand Véfour, in my opinion it is “Fillet of Beef with Foie Gras.” This exquisite combination of tender beef filet and rich foie gras is known for its exceptional flavor and presentation.
Café de la Paix
Located at 5 Place de l’Opéra, is a famous brasserie in Paris with a special appeal. It has a rich history and has been frequented by notable figures over the years.
About 14 minutes walking distance from Louvre. Café de la Paix is that it was a favorite spot for many prominent figures, including famous writers and artists such as Guy de Maupassant and Émile Zola. It is said that Maupassant once remarked, “The best place to observe Parisians is from the terrace of Café de la Paix.”
My dish of choice at Café de la Paix is fresh oysters. But if oysters are not to your taste, I would recommend Café de la Paix classic – “Beef Bourguignon”. This traditional French dish features tender beef braised in red wine with onions, mushrooms, and herbs, resulting in a flavorful and comforting meal.
Le Comptoir du Relais
Le Comptoir du Relais, is next in the list , located 13 minutes across the Seine river , at 9 Carrefour de l’Odéon, is a charming bistro that holds a special place in Parisian dining. It is known for its authentic atmosphere and exceptional cuisine.
One interesting fact about Le Comptoir du Relais is that it is owned and operated by well known French chef Yves Camdeborde. He is credited with popularizing the “bistronomy” movement, which combines high-quality ingredients and culinary expertise in a more casual bistro setting. And of course it holds a Michelin star.
When it comes to the best dish at Le Comptoir du Relais, my favorite is, “Lamb Shoulder Confit.”
This dish features a tender and flavorful lamb shoulder that has been slow-cooked to perfection in its own juices and aromatic herbs. The slow cooking process results in meltingly tender meat that is packed with rich, savory flavors. Each bite is a delight ,as the lamb simply falls apart on your fork. Accompanied by complementary side dishes and sauces, this Lamb Shoulder Confit is a true masterpiece of French cuisine.
L’Ambroisie
L’Ambroisie at 9 Place des Vosges, slightly far from Louvre, but trust me it is worth 28 minutes walking on Rue de Rivoli. L’Ambroisie is a three-Michelin-starred prestigious restaurant that has garnered an exceptional reputation over the years.
Established in 1986, L’Ambroisie earned three Michelin stars for its exceptional quality and dining experience. One of its best dishes is the “Sautéed Duck Foie Gras with Raspberries,” a harmonious blend of rich foie gras and tart raspberries.
A visit to L’Ambroisie is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for food enthusiasts. The restaurant’s exquisite cuisine, meticulous attention to detail, and great service create an atmosphere of refined elegance.
Le Palais Royal
Le Palais Royal, situated at 110 Galerie de Valois, is a stylish and contemporary restaurant. One notable aspect of Le Palais Royal is its prime location. It is nestled within the stunning Galerie de Valois, adjacent to the beautiful Palais Royal gardens, creating an enchanting atmosphere for guests.
My recommendation here is The Seared Scallops with Truffle Cream. A tantalizing dish that combines the delicate sweetness of seared scallops with the luxurious richness of truffle-infused cream sauce. Scallops perfectly seared to achieve a beautiful caramelized crust, while maintaining their tender and juicy texture within. And Truffle cream sauce, a masterpiece in itself, is a decadent symphony of earthy, aromatic truffle notes blended with creamy goodness.
It envelops the scallops and, enhancing their natural sweetness and adding a layer of unparalleled richness to every mouthful. Just wow! And it’s only 5 minutes walking distance from Louvre. Perfect completion for your cultural journey.
Keep in mind. It’s always a good idea to book a table in advance. Paris is a very busy place.
So, whether you seek an elegant Michelin-starred experience or a cozy bistro infused with Parisian charm, these restaurants near the Louvre promise to elevate your dining adventure. So, when you visit the Louvre in Paris, be sure to treat yourself to an unforgettable dining experience at one of these five outstanding French restaurants. Bon appétit!
If you interested to visit Louvre, I wrote about its masterpieces here. Also have a walking tour guide from Louvre to Arch de Triumph, here I describe all the locations you pass on the way.
