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To find the best traditional French restaurants in Paris, you want to ask the locals. The Parisians know the hidden gems tucked away off the beaten path.
As a Parisian native and also having lived in the center of Paris, we’re constantly hunting down the best traditional French restaurants.
From our ongoing multiple visits to the City of Lights, we share our favorite authentic Paris restaurants.
And, to make your dining experience easy, we’ve also included some information about the neighborhoods.
Savor classic French food at these 10 best traditional French restaurants in Paris.
Map of The Best Traditional French Restaurants in Paris
If you are looking to eat by the Eiffel Tower, in St Germain des Prés or Le Louvre, we got you covered. Treat yourself to the Parisian culinary heritage with this map showcasing our city’s top 10 traditional French restaurants.
AUTHENTIC FOOD QUEST TIP: Depending on how much time you have on your visit to Paris, you could consider taking a day trip to the Champagne region. We took this Champagne Experience Tour from Paris and loved going behind the scenes at family-run Champagne Houses. Read more about our experience as well as other our review of the best Champagne tours from Paris to take.
Top Authentic French Restaurants in Paris
1. When Visiting the Eiffel Tower, Stop by Bistrot Belhara
No visit to Paris would be complete without a trip to see the Eiffel Tower in the 7th arrondissement. Once you’ve had the chance to take in the beauty of this exquisite structure, you’re going to have worked up an appetite. We suggest the following restaurant for traditional dishes in a quintessential Paris bistro.
AUTHENTIC FOOD QUEST TIP: Skip the long lines at the Eiffel Tower and head straight up to the second level with special summit access. This Eiffel Tower skip-line summit experience includes fast stress-free access to the second floor accompanied by a local guide who will help you identify the monuments while sharing their history. From the second floor, you’ll proceed up higher to the summit where you can toast with Champagne and see Gustave Eiffel’s private apartment.
Bistrot Belhara
Bistrot Belhara opened in 2013 and seeks to incorporate the flavors of the Basque Country.
While the restaurant offers a traditional and cozy dining experience without the pretentiousness of French restaurants of this caliber.
As Chef, Thierry Dufroux whips up his magic in the kitchen, his wife and staff will warmly welcome you making you feel right at home.
What to Eat at Bistrot Belhara
At Bistrot Belhara, you can order duck foie gras, veal stew, or the special fish of the day.
There is also a tasting menu or degustation menu which takes you on an exciting adventure to the French Basque country.
Regardless of what option you go with, be sure to end your meal with a rich dessert like crispy millefeuille with strawberries and rhubarb.
If you want some old-world bistro charm, try their Ossau-Iraty cheese made from sheep’s milk, paired with black cherry jam.
Sip your red wine while enjoying the romantic neighborhood ambiance.
Address: 23 Rue Duvivier, 75007 Paris
Hours: Tuesday – Saturday from 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm and from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
Price: The tasting menu starts at €46 (approx. $50.72)
Pro Tip: The restaurant isn’t well marked and is easy to miss if you’re casually strolling by. Keep your eyes peeled for the signage so you don’t miss out on one of the best restaurants near the Eiffel Tower!
RELATED: 7 Best Affordable Restaurants Near Eiffel Tower for French Food Lovers
2. After Seeing Canal St. Martin, Dine at Les Rupins
Nestled between the 10th and 11th arrondissements, Canal St. Martin is a waterway and local neighborhood and a great spot to get some fresh air in the capital.
This part of town is one of our favorites, and you can also take a guided tour of ancient Paris on the canal.
After all the exploration, you’ll want traditional French cuisine. Below is our recommendation for one of the best traditional French restaurants in Paris in the area.
Les Rupins
To feel at home in the 10th arrondissement, head to Les Rupins for traditional French food in Paris.
This charming bistro has a cozy interior with wood furnishings and funky lights. The best spot in the restaurant is the lovely terrace which is covered, making it agreeable for any time of the year.
It’s the kind of restaurant where you can linger over a lengthy meal while soaking in the local vibe in the French capital.
What to Eat at Les Rupins
At Les Rupins, everything is homemade from the starters to the dessert. Using fresh and seasonal ingredients, you’ll savor refined cuisine at a great value for the money.
The menu is written on a chalkboard, and if you have any questions, the friendly staff will happily translate it for you.
If you’re a fish lover, don’t miss out on Les Rupins’ homemade salmon gravlax with dill. The seared duck breast and the beef cuts are exquisite.
Vegetarians don’t have to miss out on the classic French food experience. Find several choices including the comforting gratin aux ravioles, a meat-free lasagna made from ricotta and spinach.
Address: 35 Bd de Magenta, 75010 Paris
Hours: Open daily, 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm and 6:30 pm – 10:30 pm
Price: Fixed menus range from €20 to €35 (approx. $53)
Pro Tip: Make a reservation or go early as this authentic Paris restaurant gets busy quickly.
AUTHENTIC FOOD QUEST TIP: One of the best ways to savor traditional French food in Paris is on a guided food tour. See our guide to The 10 Best Paris Food Tours For French Food Lovers.
3. Try Capitaine After Seeing Place des Vosges
Walking around Paris, you’ll likely find yourself in the 4th arrondissement at some point. While there, pay a visit to the Place des Vosges, a historic square known for its architecture and famous personalities who have lived there. Today, the area is vibrant with culture and celebrates the LGBTQ+ and Jewish communities. For a break while strolling around the district, check out the classic French restaurant below.
Restaurant Capitaine
This unpretentious traditional French restaurant in Paris Capitaine is tucked away just off Rue St. Antoine.
In the cozy dining room, you’ll sit elbow-to-elbow on a pale red leather banquette with wooden bistro chairs at each table.
You’ll savor succulent classic French food influenced by the chef’s Brittany origins. The friendly and quick service will only add to your outstanding experience.
What to Eat at Capitaine
The food at Capitaine is based on organic, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients.
The same philosophy extends to the wine list, which features a number of natural wines.
Start out with the pork croquettes, which are to die for. Grilled octopus, French ravioli au foie gras, or roasted pigeon are some of the mouthwatering dishes to try.
If you still have room for dessert, the chocolate mousse, orange sorbet, or pavlova are impeccable.
The touch of exotic flavors in the French cuisine at Restaurant Capitaine will always surprise you.
Address: 4 Imp. Guéménée, 75004 Paris
Hours: Lunch, Wed-Sat,12:00 pm – 2:00 pm; Dinner, Tues-Sat, 7:30 pm – 10:30 pm; Closed Mon-Tues
Price: Lunch fixed menu starts at €29 (approx. $31.98)
Pro Tip: At Place des Voges you can visit the Victor Hugo Museum at number 6 for free. Check it out before or after lunch at Capitaine.
4. Eat at Atelier Rouliere While in Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Saint-Germain-des-Prés on the left bank is known for its intellectual and artistic heritage.
Renowned writers and artists like Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, Ernest Hemingway, Pablo Picasso, and many others frequented the area.
Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots, two famous intellectuals’ meeting points are in the neighborhood. For a taste of Parisian history and culture, here’s an inspiring restaurant to consider.
L’Atelier Roulière
Atelier Rouliere traces its roots to a family butcher shop established in 1877.
Five generations later, the family keeps the menu centered around meat. The long narrow dining room with black and white checkered floor tiles has a timeless classic vibe.
Dine inside or on the outdoor patio where you can take in the views from this chic restaurant in the heart of Paris.
What to Eat at Atelier Rouliere
A classic French restaurant, the menu features traditional dishes which change regularly based on the season.
As a former butcher shop, meat features prominently including cuts of Aubrac beef from Aveyron.
The steak tartare with homemade fries is exceptional and is one of the restaurant’s classic dishes not to miss.
Boeuf bourguignon or beef stew from Burgundy and the snails or escargots are other traditional French foods to savor.
Non-meat eaters will find fish and other vegetarian dishes to choose from. On a chilly or rainy day, Atelier Rouliere’s French onion soup can warm you right up.
Address: 24 Rue des Canettes, 75006 Paris
Hours: Open daily, 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm, and 7:00 pm – 10:30 pm
Price: Main dishes between €30 to €40 (approx. $33 to $44)
Pro Tip: Luxembourg Gardens are about a five-minute walk from Atelier Roulier. After your meal, consider taking a scenic stroll through the Gardens.
5. Les Canailles Will Fill You Up in Pigalle
The Pigalle district in the 18th arrondissement is home to the Moulin Rouge and is widely known for its nightlife. Find cabarets, performance halls, bars, and of course, delicious eats!
Take a look at our recommendation for where to eat in Pigalle.
Les Canailles
With wooden tables and brick elements, Les Canailles doesn’t focus on a pretentious setting.
Instead, they put effort into their French cooking.
Specifically, this restaurant is known for putting a modern twist on traditional French food. And, the products are locally sourced.
Settle into this bright and modern bistro in Paris for traditional savory dishes accompanied by excellent wines.
What to Eat at Les Canailles
The menu at Les Canailles changes frequently and is typically written on a chalkboard. You will always find fresh fish from the market offered daily.
Other specialties include beef tongue carpaccio as a starter, rump steak with Aubrac beef, and other seasonal recipes.
The Grand Marnier soufflé traditional French dessert is highly sought after and worth leaving room for.
Their wine selection wonderfully pairs with their main courses. Be sure to ask for a recommendation as you order your meal.
Address: 25 Rue la Bruyère, 75009 Paris
Hours: Mon-Fri 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm; Closed Sat-Sun
Price: Fixed menu prices range from €37 to €43 (approx. $40.66 to $47.25)
Pro Tip: Be aware that they have sought-after reservations, so you’ll want to book your table ASAP.
RELATED: Paris Chocolate Tour: Visit The World Best Chocolate Shops and More
6. Dine at L’Office Restaurant After Visiting the Louvre
The 1st Arrondissement is perhaps the most popular in Paris, as it’s where you can find the Louvre, the world-famous art museum.
Before heading to the Louvre, be sure to fuel up at the nearby L’Office restaurant.
With four floors and three wings, the Louvre holds more than 35,000 pieces of art.
Savor traditional French cooking at our recommended restaurant below to help sustain you as you soak in all the culture.
AUTHENTIC FOOD QUEST TIP: Skip the lines and experience the best of the Louvre Museum with an art-historian guide. This skip-the-line guide tour of the Louvre Museum with Venus de Milo and Mona Lisa takes you on an epic tour across the many galleries. Embark on a 3-hour guided Louvre Museum tour in a small group, immersing yourself in iconic artworks including the Venus de Milo and Mona Lisa. Following the tour, you’ll have the freedom to further explore the museum at your own pace.
L’Office Restaurant
This chic restaurant may be called L’Office, but its food definitely isn’t something you’d ordinarily eat on your lunch break.
This charming bistro in the nearby 9th arrondissement offers gourmet seasonal traditional French cuisine.
The ambiance is warm and welcoming with pale green walls, wooden tables, and top-notch service.
The best authentic restaurants in Paris don’t stay a secret for a long time, and the word about this gem that opened in 2018 has certainly gotten out.
What to Eat at L’Office Restaurant
The short menu at L’Office is pleasing to fish and meat lovers, vegetarians and can also be adapted to vegan and gluten-free diets.
Fish is a restaurant specialty, and it comes directly from Brittany fishermen. And, if scallops with tapioca is on the menu, be sure to order it.
The Beef Wellington, which consists of a fillet of beef with mushrooms and foie gras, layered in an oven-baked puff is a signature dish not to miss.
The wine list has about 30 organic or biodynamic wines, which pair well with the different plates.
You will not be disappointed by dining at this French restaurant in the capital.
The French cooking jostles the senses, and you’ll be delighted by the culinary adventures the flavors will take you on.
Address: 3 rue Richer, 75009 Paris
Hours: Mon-Fri, 12:00 pm – 2:30 pm and 7:00 pm – 10:30 pm; Closed, Sat-Sun
Price: Lunch fixed menu €27 (approx. $29.70)
Pro Tip: The desserts are exceptional, and it is worth leaving room for a sweet treat after your meal. There are outstanding gluten-free desserts available for those with sensitivities.
7. If You’re Near Clichy, Don’t Miss Comme Chez Maman
In the 17th arrondissement, you’ll find the Parc Clichy-Batignolles, which honors civil rights leader Martin Luther King.
Created with sustainability in mind, this park uses solar panels and rainwater to help its plants grow.
Marvel at the engineering of its wind turbines and then head over for some well-deserved lunch.
Comme Chez Maman
At this traditional French restaurant in Paris, you eat as you eat “Like at Mom’s,” playing off its name.
Comme Chez Maman is our favorite restaurant in the neighborhood, and we particularly like the focused French cooking and the use of high-quality ingredients.
Expect a cozy dining room with wooden tables including one long one where you’ll be cozy in a convivial atmosphere.
The menu changes regularly though you can expect French classic dishes with a modern twist.
In the same neighborhood, you’ll find Comme Chez Maman’s sister restaurant, Bouillon des Vignes.
What to Eat at Comme Chez Maman
Pork terrine, duck confit, and butternut squash soup are examples of dishes you can find on the menu here.
Impeccably executed by the chef, get the Beef Bourguignon if you see it on the menu.
Their free-range roasted chicken, duck, and fish stews are also exceptional. Many of the plates are made to share allowing you to taste more of the menu.
For good food and a good time, while being well-priced, Comme Chez Maman is an unmissable traditional French restaurant in Paris.
Address: 5 rue des Moines, 75017 Paris
Hours: Open daily, 12:00 pm – 2:30 pm and 7:00 pm -10:30 pm
Price: Main dishes range from €26 to €32 (approx. $28.60 to $35.19)Pro Tip: Skip the menu and instead order from the daily specials on the chalkboard menu
8. Au Petit Riche: The Perfect Post-Opera Meal
Stop by the 9th arrondissement and catch a glimpse of the Palais Garnier or Opéra Garnier.
You may recognize it as the “wedding cake” opera house mentioned in The Phantom of the Opera, the 1910 book that was turned into a wildly successful musical.
After the opera house, stop by a local restaurant for classic dishes that will make you want to stay in the City of Light forever.
Restaurant Au Petit Riche
Founded in 1854, Au Petit Riche is a beloved restaurant that originally catered to employees of the opera as well as their coachmen.
Classic French bistro in style, the interior decor matches the cuisine. White tablecloths, and waiters dressed in white shirts, and black aprons give off belle epoque charm without the stuffiness.
Many celebrities like Catherine Deneuve have eaten at this classic French restaurant, and you’ll see their pictures hanging on the walls.
The wine cellar with approximately 5,000 bottles, features a lovely selection from the Loire Valley.
Au Petit Riche is definitely one of the traditional French restaurants, Paris style!
What to Eat at Au Petit Riche
You’ll not go wrong with the quintessential French menu. Start out with homemade foie gras or fish ceviche for a Latin flair.
When you’re craving a simple comfort meal, their croque monsieur can do the trick.
Made with Prince de Paris ham (widely sliced), truffles, and Comté cheese, it’s hard to envision a more quintessential French lunch.
Another big hit is the pork chop and stewed apples, which are made with ingredients from local farms and orchards.
Get a local wine recommendation to pair with your traditional dishes and savor the experience at this iconic Paris bistro.
Address: 25 Rue Le Peletier, 75009 Paris
Hours: Mon-Sat 12:00 pm – 2:30 pm and 6:30 pm – 10:30 pm; Sun Closed.
Price: Fixed menus range from €28 to €40 (approx. $30.80 to $44)
Pro Tip: If you are traveling with a large group of more than 8 people, you can request a private dining room for a more intimate experience.
9. Enjoy Tadam’s Local Cuisine If You’re Near Rue Mouffetard
Rue Mouffetard in the 5th arrondissement is an emblematic street of old Paris. It is said to have led to Rome in ancient times, via Lyon.
Today, it is a popular street market with fresh produce, cheese, wine, and more. Hemingway in his book, A Moveable Feast. describes Rue Mouffetard as “that wonderful narrow crowded market street.”
When you get hungry after exploring this characteristic street market, keep reading to learn more about our favorite restaurant in the area.
Tadam
The owners of Tadam emphasize sustainability in their building design and food choices.
Focusing on seasonal and local products, this restaurant was recognized by Michelin in 2021 and has the Culinary College of France’s stamp of approval.
There is outdoor seating, and the interior is bright and cheery. You’ll find all the classics in this cozy Parisian bistro, including natural and organic wines.
What to Eat at Tadam
The menu is short at Restaurant Tadam where the emphasis is on a small selection of high-quality seasonal French recipes.
Expect refined and authentic cuisine presented with elegance and creativity. The wine list featuring independent winemakers and biodynamic wines will complement your meal.
You’ll find several seafood options on the menu, including creamed lentils and shellfish as well as smoked fish and beetroot.
Lamb shoulder confit and Angus steaks are other favorites. And you have to save room for the signature white chocolate mousse with pistachios dessert.
Address: 14 Rue du Jura, 75013 Paris
Hours: Mon-Sat, 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm – 10:00 pm; Sun,11:30 am – 2:00 pm
Price: Main dishes about €25 (approx. $27.50)
Pro Tip: Go for their sought out Sunday brunch but make reservations in advance
10. Try Les 3 Bornes Near Cimetière du Père Lachaise
The 20th arrondissement is famed for the Cimetière du Père Lachaise. Here, you can find the gravesites of famous people like the composer Frédéric Chopin and writer Oscar Wilde. You can also visit the burial site of French actress Sarah Bernhardt. After walking around or taking a guided tour of Pere Lachaise, grab a delicious meal at Les 3 Bornes.
Les 3 Bornes
Traditional French food with a twist is what you’ll find on the menu of Les 3 Bornes Restaurant.
The menu changes at least once a month, so if something catches your eye, so don’t wait if something catches your eye and tempts you.
Les 3 Bornes restaurant is small and quaint, with vintage floor tiles, stone walls, and a back wall with a comfortable sofa and coffee table.
Dig into beautifully presented French food in Paris at this classic and intimate bistro.
What to Eat at Les 3 Bornes
This restaurant offers traditional delights like pork belly and mussels and less traditional like octopus and eggplant ravioli.
There is a fixed lunch menu and a 5-tasting degustation menu for dinner. Get the tasting menu for a well-rounded experience.
Though be aware, the portion sizes are on the generous side.
Address: 71 Rue Jean-Pierre Timbaud, 75011 Paris
Hours: Mon, 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm; Tue-Sat, 12:00 pm – 2:30 pm and 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm; Close Sun.
Price: Tasting menus range from €21 to €52 (approx.$23.09 to $57.17)
Pro Tip: Book ahead to ensure you get a spot at this cozy and intimate restaurant
Do you have any other traditional French restaurants in Paris to add to this list? Please let us know in the comments below.
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Claire is co-founder of Authentic Food Quest and a lover of simple and exquisite cuisine. Since 2015, with her partner, Rosemary, she has been traveling the world as a digital nomad, creating content about local food experiences.
Her advice from visiting 45 countries and more than 240 food cities has been featured in Lonely Planet, Business Insider, Honest Cooking, Food Insider, and Huffington Post. She has also co-authored three books, including one in collaboration with Costa Brava Tourism.
An ex-mechanical engineer, Claire is responsible for SEO, keeping the website running, and the fun food & travel videos on YouTube.
When Claire is not eating, she can be found running or cycling. Find out more about Authentic Food Quest
Great, now I’m hungry!!! Thanks for the reccos!!!
Thanks, Matt!!! Cheers.