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The Most Beautiful Restaurants in Paris for a Classic French Experience
©Lafayettes
There are restaurants you visit for the food, and then there are those where the setting is just as memorable as the meal.
Paris is a city of elegance, where every corner holds a story and every meal is an experience. For those who dream of dining in breathtaking surroundings, where gilded mirrors, chandeliers, and historic paneling set the stage for unforgettable meals, this list is for you. These stunning restaurants are not just about the food (though, of course, the cuisine is impeccable) but also about the atmosphere, transporting guests to another time through their extraordinary French decor.
©Lafayettes
Lafayettes
Housed in an 18th-century hôtel particulier once home to the Marquis de La Fayette, Lafayettes is a seamless blend of history and modernity. Designed by Lázaro Rosa-Violán, the restaurant combines classic boiseries and an 18th-century Aubusson tapestry with contemporary velvets and bold prints. Under the leadership of Michelin-starred chef Mory Sacko, the menu reinterprets French brasserie classics with global influences, making this a must-visit for both its exquisite setting and innovative cuisine.
©Maxim’s
Maxim’s
A true Art Nouveau masterpiece, Maxim’s is a living legend in the heart of Paris. Its rich mahogany paneling, intricate stained glass, and bronze floral motifs create an atmosphere of timeless glamour. This is where the Belle Époque comes alive, whether you’re indulging in classic French dishes or simply soaking in the magic of its historic walls. At night, live music and an intimate ambiance make Maxim’s a place where dining effortlessly turns into a celebration.
©Le Train Bleu
Le Train Bleu
Stepping into Le Train Bleu at the Gare de Lyon is like stepping back in time. With opulent Belle Époque interiors, frescoed ceilings, and grand chandeliers, this legendary restaurant has been welcoming travelers since 1901. The menu, designed by the renowned Michel Rostang, celebrates the best of French gastronomy with traditional dishes like slow-cooked lamb and lobster Thermidor, served with a theatrical tableside presentation. A true Parisian institution.
©Beefbar Paris
Beefbar Paris
Located in the former Fermette Marbeuf, Beefbar Paris is a fusion of culinary excellence and architectural splendor. Behind its unassuming facade lies a stunning Art Nouveau atrium, adorned with intricate stained glass, gold accents, and grand arches. Awarded for its heritage restoration, the space is as spectacular as the menu, which celebrates high-quality beef cuts from around the world.
©Le Clarence
Le Clarence
For an experience that combines the warmth of a Bordeaux château with the refinement of a Parisian dining institution, Le Clarence is unparalleled. Tucked away in an elegant hôtel particulier near the Champs-Élysées, this Michelin-starred restaurant exudes old-world charm with antique furniture, plush fabrics, and intimate salons. Chef Christophe Pelé crafts a menu that is both bold and intricate, paired with a wine list curated from the finest vintages of Domaine Clarence Dillon.
©Le Meurice
Le Meurice – Alain Ducasse
Inspired by the Salon de la Paix at the Château de Versailles, the dining room at Le Meurice is pure French grandeur. Designed by Philippe Starck, it blends historic opulence with a sleek contemporary touch, featuring crystal chandeliers, antique mirrors, and sweeping views of the Tuileries Garden. Under Alain Ducasse, the cuisine is an ode to simplicity and precision, focusing on the pure flavors of each ingredient.
©Le Procope
Le Procope
The oldest café in Paris, Le Procope, has been an intellectual and culinary landmark since 1686. Once frequented by Voltaire, Diderot, and Rousseau, its rich red interiors, antique furniture, and historic artifacts make it a feast for the eyes as much as for the palate. The menu stays true to French tradition, featuring coq au vin, tête de veau, and tarte au café, ensuring a meal steeped in history and flavor.
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