In Paris when it comes to food, you really can’t go wrong. The crusty baguettes, the creamy fromage (that’s cheese to us), the mouth-watering pastries! However, with so many enthusiastic tourists wanting to tuck in, some places can be crowded and busy with long lines.
I decided to take a break from the très popular areas and discover some of the most underrated eateries in the City of Lights. Here are my top 9 eats that will definitely amuse your tastebuds, sans the tourist crowd.
1. La Chambre Aux Confitures
Located in Le Marais, this speciality shop serves up a variety of delicious jams, caramels and mustards. You can sample as many flavors as you like and stock up on Parisian preserves such as lemon curds and hazelnut spreads to take back home. A few unique flavor combinations include: raspberry and champagne; apricot and lavender; and mango, passion fruit and vanilla. On a hot day, I also loved the delicious, fruity popsicles.
Location: 60 Rue Vieille du Temple, 75003 Paris, France
2. Circus Bakery
Hidden away in the Latin Quarter and a few blocks away from the Notre Dame, we discovered this rustic bakery. As you enter, the warm and inviting scent of cinnamon welcomes you followed by an array of gorgeous-looking baked goods on display. The Instagram-worthy cinnamon buns are amazing or for those craving something savory, the bakery also offers sourdough bread loaves and pizza.
Location: 63 Rue Galande, 75005 Paris, France
3. Le Grand Salon
This place is great for drinks with a friend or for date night. Le Grand Salon is set in picturesque Montmartre, tucked away inside Hôtel Particulier Montmartre. You’ll immediately notice the dreamy interiors – look up to see the ceiling’s painted clouds and pink sky. The menu is a mix of Asian cuisine and French gastronomic flair.
Location: Hôtel Particulier Montmartre 23 Avenue Junot, Pavillon D, 75018 Paris, France
4. The Pavillon De La Reine
When you feel like taking a break from all the sightseeing and shopping, don’t miss this quaint boutique hotel located in the center of the Place Des Vosges. Afternoon Tea is served between 12 pm-2 pm and we enjoyed ours in the private courtyard (very refined!). Or book for a pastry-packed breakfast on the beautiful terrace. Either way, don’t miss the fresh raspberry tart!
Location: 28 Place des Vosges, 75003 Paris, France
5. Beef Bar
For a night out without the pretentious crowd, Beef Bar is ideal. This decadent steakhouse is just a stone’s throw away from Champs Élysées and is very classically Parisian in style. Flip through the specials and you’ll find exotic meats like Wagyu, veal tartare and Japanese Kobe, but also classic burgers. I loved the unique potato purée combinations – think white and black truffle, smoked almond and jalapeño. No, your mouth is watering!
Location: 5 Rue Marbeuf, 75008 Paris, France
6. Volver
Promise me this – don’t leave Paris without making a stop at this cozy Argentinian eatery. Not only is it one of the friendliest restaurants I’ve eaten in but the food is absolutely to die for. Get your dose of beef and cheese empanadas, ham croquettes, steak and ooey gooey dulce de leche goodness all in one visit.
Location: 18 Rue Dauphine, 75006 Paris, France
7. The Cod House
Sushi is so popular in Paris right now. So, head to The Cod House in the 3rd Arrondissement for endless plates of Japanese tapas, cocktails and desserts. I tried and loved the bao buns, yellowtail carpaccio and beef tataki. Wash it down with a Jasmine Sour and the grand finale is the green tea creme brûlée for dessert.
Location: 1 Rue de Condé, 75006 Paris, France
8. Café Kitsuné
For all iced coffee enthusiasts, Café Kitsuné is the place. Nestled inside the Palais Royal, the outdoor seating is the perfect spot for people watching. Also try the pistachio madeleines! If coffee isn’t your thing, the café also offers matcha lattes (iced or hot).
Location: 51 Galerie de Montpensier, 75001 Paris, France
9. Aux Prés
For French-Asian dishes and stunning interiors, head here. The marbled counter bar area and pretty flower wallpaper is very Insta-friendly. And the menu is filled with classic French dishes with an Asian twist – from short ribs to spicy crispy shrimp. Sweet tooth? Order the vanilla mille feuille and thank me later.
Location: 27 Rue du Dragon, 75006 Paris, France