Here are some of our favorite places to eat and drink that we enjoyed on our recent trip to Paris. Some Tim and I went to, and some are recommendations from my parents who visited Paris a week after us!
We barely scratched the surface of the vast culinary and nightlife scene the city has to offer, but we can attest that the places on this list are worth a stop! From an underground jazz club to a classic French 'Bouillon', there's a little something for everyone...
Paris Bars & Restaurants
1.38 Riv Jazz Club (Le Marais)
UNDERGROUND JAM SESSIONSThis a cool Underground Jazz Club located in a 12th century vaulted cellar. We went during a “Jam Session” which was an improv-style session where various musicians jumped in throughout the show and put on an impressive on-the-spot performance. The jazz and red wine were flowing and my Dark & Stormy was strong and delicious! (For Jam Sessions, tickets must be purchased at the door on the evening of the event.)
2. Bouillon Racine (Latin Quarter)
ONE OF PARIS'S ORIGINAL 'BOUILLON'S'
Bouillon Racine, beautifully designed in Art Noveau style, was established in 1906 and is a designated historic building. It's one of the few original "bouillon's of Paris (a restaurant serving traditional fare at affordable prices that was once popular amongst the working class) that's still in operation today. Tim and I didn't get a chance to go here but my parents did and they liked it so much that they ate dinner here twice!
3. Moonshiner Cocktail Bar (11th)
SPEAKEASY WITH FUN STAFF
Moonshiner came as a recommendation from a friend who said it was one of her favorite bars in Paris! It's a speakeasy hidden behind a pizza parlor and then through a small meat-locker. We arrived late and the bar was busy so we sat at a table in the back until we could grab some coveted bar stools. The bartenders were friendly and the cocktails were indulgent.
4. Harry's Bar (2nd)
WHERE THE BLOODY MARY ORIGINATEDIf you love a good bloody Mary, you have to visit the place that invented it! Harry’s has been around since 1911 and is a very old-fashoined cocktail bar (the Side Car was invented here too along with many other classics). I've never been to a place quite like it and have to give Tim credit because he found this one! The bartenders are clad in traditional white uniforms and aprons, the decor's a bit quirky, and the drinks definitely stand on their own two feet. They also have a piano bar downstairs with music starting at 10 PM. You might have to wait a bit for a table but the experience (and the drinks!) are certainly worth it.
5. Le Mabillion (Saint-Germain-des-Prés)
AROUND THE CLOCK EATS
This restaurant was practically around the corner from our Airbnb so we ended up here a few times. It's open for 22 hours- from 7 AM to 5 AM so it works for any meal at any hour. The service was very friendly, the wine was reasonably priced, and the Burger and Shrimp Risotto were delectable! Order the Tropézienne tart from Sénéquier for dessert!
6. Kozy Notre Dame (Latin Quarter)
BRUNCH & GOOD COFFEE
For scrumptious food and good, solid coffee, try Kozy. They use fresh, seasonal ingredients and serve brunch until 3 PM on weekdays (4 PM on weekends). I opted for the French Toast and was pleasantly surprised that they had a large iced coffee selection.
7. Les Antiquaires (7th)
BUSTLING BISTROThis was another favorite stop for my parents which was close to their hotel. Les Antiquaires is a quintessential Paris bistro whose name translates to 'The Antique Dealer.' It was very busy no matter the time of day, the service was friendly, and the French Onion soup was to die for. My mom also said she had never tasted cheese so good!
