The Eiffel Tower, while known primarily as an architectural wonder, has a rich culinary history that contributes to its global acclaim. When it was inaugurated in 1889, the tower featured several restaurants that catered to the tastes of the Paris Exposition's international visitors. Over the years, the Eiffel Tower's dining scene has evolved, with restaurants being refurbished and names changed, all while maintaining a standard of world-class French cuisine and luxurious dining experiences.
In particular, the tower's fine dining restaurant originally known as Le Restaurant Francais was transformed several times, and today it's known as Le Jules Verne, a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a gourmet dining experience with breathtaking views of Paris. With a commitment to French culinary traditions, the restaurants within the Eiffel Tower have always offered a taste of French hospitality and gastronomy to visitors from around the world.
Here is a list of top 10 must-try dishes in and around the Eiffel Tower:
1. Crepe – A delicate, thin pancake often filled with ingredients such as chocolate, fruit, or jam - Veg
2. Ratatouille – A traditional French Provençal stewed vegetable dish that is hearty and flavorful - Veg
3. French Onion Soup – A rich and savory soup topped with croutons and melted cheese - Veg
4. Macarons – Sweet meringue-based confections coming in an array of colors and flavors - Veg
5. Quiche Lorraine – An open pie with a filling comprising chiefly of cheese, cooked ham, and eggs, usually enjoyed as a starter - Non-Veg (No Cow Non-Veg)
6. Salade Niçoise – A colorful salad from Nice typically featuring tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, olives, and anchovies - Non-Veg
7. Escargot – Snails cooked with garlic and parsley butter, a unique French delicacy - Non-Veg
8. Croissant – Butter pastry that's crisp on the outside with a soft, layered inside - Veg
9. Baguette – The quintessential French bread, known for its length and crisp crust - Veg
10. Chocolate Soufflé – A light, fluffy baked dessert made with egg yolks and beaten egg whites combined with chocolate - Veg
Le Jules Verne
Address: Avenue Gustave Eiffel, 75007 Paris, France
Famous Food: Gourmet French cuisine (includes both veg and non-veg options)
58 Tour Eiffel
Address: 1st floor of the Eiffel Tower, Champ de Mars, 75007 Paris, France
Famous Food: Traditional French dishes served in a picnic-style lunch and a chic bistro dinner (includes both veg and non-veg options)
Le Buffet
Address: 1st floor of the Eiffel Tower, Champ de Mars, 75007 Paris, France
Famous Food: Quick snacks and light meals like sandwiches and salads (includes both veg and non-veg options)
The Champagne Bar
Address: Top floor of the Eiffel Tower, 75007 Paris, France
Famous Food: Although known for its selection of champagne, it offers small plates and appetizers to enjoy with the sparkling wine (includes both veg and non-veg options).
Whether you are dining in an upscale restaurant or enjoying a quick bite from one of the buffet-style eateries, eating at the Eiffel Tower provides a truly Parisian gastronomical experience fused with stunning views of the city of lights. Bon appétit!