What are the romantic fine dining eateries in Paris that are best for a first date, an anniversary meal, or a special night out with your beloved? Our correspondent Julie Chang Murphy has curated a list of the most romantic chic Parisian restaurants – here’s where to eat for a special night out in Paris this year.
There is perhaps no other city in the world that can elicit a feeling of romance like Paris. The old world charm emanates from its tree-lined promenades, atmospheric alleyways and soaring architecture. The grandeur of the setting creates just the right conditions for falling in love. Or falling back in love, as the case may be.
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Beyond the beautiful sights, the breadth and depth of the food and drink offerings in this culinary capital will awaken the rest of the senses. Whether your idea of the perfect romantic meal is eating oysters at a traditional bistro or dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant in a fresco-filled Belle Époque room, Paris exceeds all expectations.
The most romantic fine dining restaurants and eateries in Paris.
If you’re traveling to Paris as a rite of passage with your significant other, here are our top 10 picks for the most romantic restaurants, ordered by arrondissement.
the most romantic and chic restaurants in Paris
1st Arrondissement
1. Verjus
Verjus: Here’s a delicious secret . . . this charming and unpretentious restaurant located in a small passageway across from the Palais Royal is actually helmed by an American couple. If you can find this small, tucked away gem, you’ll be rewarded with an outstanding tasting menu that changes monthly.
One of the best fine dining restaurants of where to eat in Paris: Verjus. Courtesy Photo.
The food is inventive – chickpea fritter tacos filled with creme fraiche and herbs or porcini mushroom French toast – and the service is friendly and laid-back. It’s the perfect spot to start your rendezvous in Paris.
2nd Arrondissement
2. Dans le Noir
Dans le Noir: If Paris is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for you and your beau, then how about a once-in-a-lifetime dinner? In complete darkness. Dial up the mystery and sensuality with this unique venue where the 3-course tasting menu expertly mixes tastes and textures. But you won’t know what you’re eating until the end. In the meantime, speak your mind and get a little messy. No one will know.
One of the best fine dinning restaurants of where to eat in Paris: Dans le Noir. Courtesy Photo.
3. Caffe Stern
Caffe Stern: This Italian cafe is located inside Passage des Panoramas, the oldest and arguably the prettiest covered arcade in Paris. Famed designer Philippe Starck revived this historic letterpress shop into a luxurious space. Inspired by a baroque spirit, it features carved woodwork from the 17th century, a parquet floor and Murano chandeliers. Come for elegant and authentic Italian fare like celery root tortelli in vegetable broth with bergamot essence. Or the roasted suckling pig with Amatriciana sauce and puree of corona beans with oil.
Caffe Stern. Courtesy Photo.
6th Arrondissement
4. Guy Savoy
Guy Savoy is hailed as the “best in the world” by gourmands. Burgundy-born Guy Savoy’s restaurant, inside the neoclassical Monnaie de Paris (Paris Mint), is one of the most elegant and prestigious places for an extra-special date. From the red-carpeted entryway staircase to the three-Michelin star rated delicate cuisine, you really can’t go wrong.
One of the best fine dining restaurants of where to eat in Paris: Guy Savoy Courtesy Photo.
It would be understandable to assume that this temple to gastronomy is a snooty place. The good news, though? There is a fervor to please here. The staff is remarkably attentive, kind and knowledgeable. Which means you can relax and focus on your companion.
7th arrondissement
5. Le Voltaire
Le Voltaire: This jewel-box of a brasserie set alongside the Seine is a Paris icon, with its emerald awning and velvet curtains. It serves up quintessential French cuisine: escargots, filet mignon with béarnaise and fries and sole meunière. It’s a historic and romantic room that attracts the crème de la crème of society. Dress up and soak up the authentic Parisian vibe of this chic bistro.
One of the best fine dining restaurants for date night in Paris: Courtesy Photo.
8th arrondissement
6. La Maison du Caviar
La Maison du Caviar: It’s all about caviar and champagne in this swanky 1930’s era room inspired by the Orient Express. Think velvet benches, bronze mosaic walls, and an entirely gold-leaf-gilded ceiling. The intoxicating caviars are of the best provenances and perfect for woo-ing – or for celebrating a great love affair.
One of the best fine dining restaurants for date night in Paris: la Maison du Caviar. Courtesy Photo.
7. Lasserre
Lasserre: First opened in 1942, this exceedingly romantic restaurant once hosted Audrey Hepburn, Salvador Dali and Marc Chagall as regulars. And it still entices lovers of good taste. The upstairs dining room is accessed by a bellboy-operated lift, where diners enjoy a classic menu focusing on artisanal ingredients. The piece de resistance? A retractable ceiling that opens so you and your date can dine under the stars.
Laserre. Courtesy Photo.
9th arrondissement
8. Le Pantruche
Le Pantruche: Sometimes the most romantic meal is a simple affair at a neighborhood favorite. This classic and cozy bistro is pure Paris – antique mirrors, brass detailing and smiling staff.
La Pantruche. Courtesy Photo.
Chef Franck Baranger has worked at some of the most prestigious Parisian kitchens and brings a sophisticated but affordable French menu, including standouts like a foie gras black truffle risotto and a Grand Marnier soufflé for dessert.
11th arrondissement
9. Septime
Septime: Plan in advance because this hot spot is nearly impossible to get into. Which, of course, means your date will be majorly impressed when you whisk them to this stylish yet understated restaurant with its innovative and serious food.
A great place for date night while fine dining: Septime. Courtesy Photo.
The ingredient-driven menu includes an exquisite duck filet with laurel-infused jus, perfectly cooked Saint-Jean mackerel with sweet and padron peppers and tender Iberico ham and pumpkin. Impeccable service and an extensive wine list top it all off.
12th arrondissement
10. Le Train Bleu
Le Train Bleu: This legendary restaurant is a historic monument in and of itself and completely swoon-worthy. The 26-foot high ceilings, Belle Epoque interiors, and gorgeous 18th century frescoes set the stage for Michelin Star winning chef Michel Rostang’s elegant French cuisine. For sweeping that special person off their feet, this one will do the trick every time.
One of the most romantic chic restaurants in Paris: Le Train Bleu. Courtesy Photo.
the most romantic and chic restaurants in Paris
Love at first sight (and bite)…in Paris, it’s more than possible. Bon Appetit, love birds!
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Crediting her training as a cultural anthropologist at Wellesley College, Julie has immersed herself in various industries in the last 15 years including fashion design, event planning, and fitness. Julie lives in New York where she loves trying every ramen and dumpling restaurant with her husband and three children. She finds joy in bold prints, biographies of fierce women, kickboxing. And spending way too long finding the perfect polish color to express her mood.
Join our community
For access to insider ideas and information on the world of luxury, sign up for our Dandelion Chandelier newsletter. And see luxury in a new light.