10 memorable meals in Paris
Dining in Paris
Some of the most memorable meals of my life were during my 4 months studying abroad in Paris. Dining in Paris was like nothing I had ever experienced before. The Parisians care deeply about their food and it shows in how fresh and carefully prepared each meal is, whether at a little boulangerie or a Michelin-starred restaurant. I had so many incredible meals in Paris that narrowing it down to 10 was a challenge, but here we go!
1. PINK MAMA
Pink Mama was the first proper restaurant my friends and I went to once we arrived in Paris. Many have probably seen this spot on social media but for those who haven’t, Pink Mama is a very picturesque four story restaurant in Pigalle that serves incredible Italian food. Pink Mama is part of the Big Mama Group that owns restaurants all over Paris and while they are all amazing, Pink Mama’s vibe and aesthetic made it my favorite. My cocktail of choice was the Bellini Spritz and the wood-oven pizzas were all made to perfection with a thick doughy crust. While you really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, the star of the show is definitely the truffle pasta. If the idyllic indoor garden and amazing food aren’t enough to sell this place then the prices will be. Paris is known for being one of the most expensive places in Europe; however, all of the Big Mama restaurants were pretty reasonably priced (i.e. cocktails for 9 euros) making it perfect for those of us on a student budget. Pink Mama was our go-to spot for group birthday dinners and THE place to take friends that were visiting Paris. Make sure you book in advance as it fills up quickly and there are usually long lines for walk-ins.
2. CHAMBRE NOIR
Chambre Noir is a tiny wine bar located in the 11th arrondissement and holds a very special place in my heart. One of my friends who still lives in Paris brought me here for dinner one night and I was so obsessed with it that I returned three times as I had to introduce all my other friends to this amazing little find.At Chambre Noir you will be surrounded by bottles of natural wine and French speaking locals. The staff are very knowledgeable about the different kinds of natural wine and each one I tried was delicious (my fave was the orange wine). The seasonal food menu is very limited and changes regularly, but everything we tried was incredible and paired perfectly with the natural wine. The food is all small plates which are meant to be shared and on my visits I tried the burrata, shishito peppers, fresh vegetables, tacos and mushrooms. Food prices ranged from 3 euro to at most 18, so it’s very reasonably priced. Chambre Noir is perfect for a date night or to come with one or two friends as it is very small and they do not take reservations. The vibe is vibrant but not too loud.
3. LOU LOU
Lou Lou is definitely on the fancier and pricier side but worth it. Located right outside the Louvre, Lou Lou is a sceney spot for outdoor lunch on a sunny day. The vodka pasta and truffle pizza are both heavenly. Reservations are hard to get so make sure you book as close to 30 days out as you can.
4. FULGRANCES L’ADRESSE
If you are a foodie and open to trying whatever imaginative dishes are being served that night then Fulgurances L’Adresse is for you. The Fulgurances group has two restaurants in Paris and one in New York that serve as incubators where young up-and-coming chefs hone their skills before setting out to open their own restaurants. Featuring unique tasting menus and wine pairings, L’Adresse is not for everyone as diners don’t know what they will be served until they arrive; however, if you are open-minded and adventurous diner I highly recommend it.
5. LE RELAIS DE L’ENTRECÔTE
This was both my first and last meal in Paris and I would dine here once a week if I could. Le Relais de L'Entrecôte is a very famous restaurant in Paris that has three locations across the city and serves only one meal: a walnut salad, followed by an incredibly tender sirloin steak in secret green sauce paired with crisp, homemade fries. The salad and steak frite meal is 28 euro - a pretty good deal for Paris - and they refill your plate ensuring you will not leave hungry. In addition to the single meal offered, there is a great selection of desserts. If you eat red meat, Le Relais de L'Entrecôte is a must. Prepare to wait in line for at least 20 minutes as they do not take reservations. Also beware of copy-cats that have popped up all over the city. Check out the website for the authentic locations (www.relaisentrecote.fr)
6. LE RIGLAMORE
Le Rigmarole is a small well-known restaurant in the 11th arrondissement that serves a cross between Japanese and French food. During my time in Paris this restaurant was temporarily transformed into a pizzeria called Pizzamarole that serves freshly made sourdough pizzas. This was some of the best pizza I’ve ever tasted and the staff paired our pizzas with wine from their natural wine selection. Le Rigmarole is expected to return in April 2023. Afterwards make sure you go next door to Folderol, their sister spot for dessert. Folderol is a small wine bar that serves natural wine paired with homemade ice cream. Even though it's small, Folderol always has a lively energy and fun crowd - it's the perfect place to end your night.
7. FERDI
The best burger I have ever had is definitely at Ferdi! Some people know this spot for being Kim and Kanye’s favorite burger in the world and I now understand why. Ferdi is a tiny restaurant in the 1st arrondissement with an eclectic decor (picture lots of toy cars and little toys on the wall). The menu is a bit random with a wide assortment of foods but we really just went there for the burger and macaroni and cheese and these did NOT disappoint. Make a reservation in advance by texting +33 (0)6 51 70 29 70
8. LE 17.45
Le 17.45 is less known on social media or tourist sites than some of my other Parisian recommendations, so it was one of my favorite finds (I just walked by one day). It turned out to be such a hidden gem! I went to the location in the 11th Arrondissement but there are a few locations around Paris. Le 17.45 is a small cozy restaurant with the coolest concept of building your own charcuterie boards. The waiter brings guests a pen and a notepad on which to tick off all the different kinds of meats, cheeses, and jams they wish to try and then the staff builds a custom board for each customer/group of customers which is served with a fresh baguette. My friend and I had the best time here and split a bottle of red wine to enjoy with our charcuterie. If you go you must order the tete de moins (monk’s head) cheese –it’s literally the best cheese I have tasted! Price here was mid range.
9. BEEF BAR
If you are looking for a higher end restaurant and eat red meat, Beef Bar is one of Paris’s most glamorous restaurants. The service is impeccable from the moment you walk in and the restaurant decor is unique with a mix of old and contemporary design. Not only is the atmosphere great but every dish we tried was outstanding. In addition to classic steaks, Beef Bar serves several street food items with a contemporary twist. We especially enjoyed the wagyu dumplings, truffle fries and beef tacos.
10. LE REFUGE DES FONDUS
Last but not least, I have to mention Le Refuge des Fondus. Le Refuge des Fondus is a small fondue place located in Montmartre that has 2 sittings each night, and may have been the most fun meal I had while in Paris. The small cave-like restaurant has writing all over the walls and two long family style tables. It’s tradition here that customers climb over the table to get into the inside booth seats. Once you are seated you'll be served wine in baby bottles (weird, I know) and a charcuterie plate to start, followed by cheese and meat fondue with fresh baguette for the main course. If you book the later seating (9pm) be prepared for loud throwback 2000’s music and lots dancing on tables. This place is perfect if you are looking for a fun group dinner that is not too expensive.
Narrowing down the many culinary delights of Paris to 10 was definitely a feat—and I have so many more places I will share in coming posts. This summer I’m looking forward to going back for a few days, showing my little sister some of my favorite spots and hopefully trying a few more!