Top 21 Legendary Brasseries to Experience in Paris

Parisian brasseries are more than just restaurants—they’re part of the city’s culture. With Art Deco or Belle Époque charm, they serve classics like steak frites and snails, paired with fine wines. It’s not just about the food but the lively Parisian atmosphere.

 

21. Wepler

14 Pl. de Clichy, 75018 Paris

 

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Established in the late 19th century, Wepler is famed for its fresh seafood and lively atmosphere.

It once drew many artists from the nearby Montmartre district.

Even today, this Art Deco brasserie keeps its charm with wide bay windows and continuous service.

 

20. La Rotonde

105 Bd du Montparnasse, 75006 Paris

Opened in 1911 in Montparnasse, La Rotonde was a favorite haunt of Picasso and Modigliani.

Inside, you’ll find grand columns, velvet banquettes, and subdued lighting, an elegant setting for enjoying French classics such as escargots and foie gras.

 

19. Brasserie Mollard

115 Rue Saint-Lazare, 75008 Paris

Next to Saint-Lazare train station, Mollard (founded in 1895) is a true architectural gem.

Listed as a historical monument, its opulent décor dazzles visitors.

The menu features seafood specialties as well as timeless brasserie dishes.

 

18. Terminus Nord

23 Rue de Dunkerque, 75010 Paris

In operation since 1925, Terminus Nord welcomes both travelers and local foodies.

Mirrors, wood paneling, and cozy banquettes create a warm vibe.

Expect classic French brasserie fare, think choucroute, seafood platters, and hearty daily specials.

 

17. Brasserie Bellanger

140 Rue du Faubourg Poissonnière, 75010 Paris

 

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A new-generation brasserie in the 10th arrondissement, Bellanger is known for updating traditional French comfort food at reasonable prices.

The friendly ambiance, local ingredients, and generous portions make it a popular spot among Parisians.

 

16. Le Dôme

108 Bd du Montparnasse, 75014 Paris

Established in 1898 in Montparnasse, Le Dôme gained fame for its seafood, especially the ultra-fresh oyster platters.

Once a gathering place for writers and artists of the Lost Generation, it retains an air of refined bohemian charm.

 

15. Balzar

49 Rue des Écoles, 75005 Paris

 

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Since 1894, this institution in the Latin Quarter has drawn everyone from students to philosophers like Sartre and Camus.

Balzar specializes in classic French staples, veal liver, duck confit, in a cozy, old-school brasserie setting.

 

14. Le Vaudeville

29 Rue Vivienne, 75002 Paris

 

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Founded in 1918 near the Bourse, Le Vaudeville is a classic Art Deco brasserie.

With its bustling terrace, elegant interior, and emphasis on seafood platters, it remains a favorite for business lunches and leisurely dinners alike.

 

13. Au Pied de Cochon

6 Rue Coquillière, 75001 Paris

 

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Open 24/7 since 1947 in Les Halles, Au Pied de Cochon is a genuine Parisian landmark.

Famous for its onion soup and namesake dish (pig’s trotter), it’s the perfect late-night spot for a hearty meal after an evening out.

 

12. Le Petit Poucet

5 Pl. de Clichy, 75017 Paris

 

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Nestled on the serene Île de la Jatte, Le Petit Poucet offers a contemporary dining experience with spacious terraces overlooking the Seine.

The chef crafts fresh, seasonal cuisine, selecting the finest market ingredients.

Ideally situated near Porte Maillot and the La Défense business district, it’s a perfect spot for both business lunches and leisurely dinners.

 

11. La Closerie des Lilas

171 Bd du Montparnasse, 75006 Paris

A historic fixture in the 6th arrondissement, La Closerie des Lilas hosted Hemingway, Fitzgerald, and Picasso.

Now, it’s a refined spot for oysters, lobster, and fine wines.

The piano bar at night exudes a romantic, literary ambiance.

 

10. Bouillon Julien

16 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis, 75010 Paris

This jewel in the 10th arrondissement was designed by Louis Trézel and boasts original Art Nouveau decor.

The cuisine features brasserie classics—lobster, confit, crème brûlée—served in a setting that evokes the splendor of the Belle Époque.

 

9. Le Grand Colbert

2 Rue Vivienne, 75002 Paris

 

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Close to the Palais-Royal, Le Grand Colbert offers a sumptuous Belle Époque backdrop.

Famously featured in the film Something’s Gotta Give, it’s a top pick for a special evening, serving refined French dishes in a majestic atmosphere.

 

8. Brasserie Floderer

7 Cr des Petites Écuries, 75010 Paris

Tucked near République, Brasserie Floderer has preserved its late-19th-century charm.

Expect Alsatian specialties (sauerkraut, flammekueche) alongside fresh seafood.

Its understated elegance and cozy vibe make it perfect for a relaxed yet sophisticated meal.

 

7. Chez Paul

13 Rue de Charonne, 75011 Paris

In the 11th arrondissement, Chez Paul is the embodiment of a friendly neighborhood brasserie.

Known for comforting French dishes—boeuf bourguignon, confit de canard—it’s cherished for its nostalgic bistrot vibe and welcoming staff.

 

6. Bouillon Chartier

7 Rue du Faubourg Montmartre, 75009 Paris

 

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Since 1896, Chartier has been famed for its affordable prices and authentic bouillon-style dining.

Expect French classics like poireaux vinaigrette or steak frites, all served in a lively, ever-busy atmosphere that retains its historical charm.

 

5. Brasserie Bofinger

5-7 Rue de la Bastille, 75004 Paris

 

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Just steps from Bastille, Bofinger has dazzled diners since 1864.

Revered for its Alsatian choucroute and seafood towers, it also features one of the most striking Art Nouveau interiors in Paris.

A must-see for lovers of classic French design.

 

4. La Coupole

102 Bd du Montparnasse, 75014 Paris

 

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Opened in 1927, it has been a meeting place for artists and writers like Picasso and Hemingway.

With its frescoes, columns, and lively brasserie buzz, it has been a cornerstone of Montparnasse’s cultural scene for decades.

Don’t miss their impressive platter of shellfish.

 

3. Le Procope

13 Rue de l’Ancienne Comédie, 75006 Paris

 

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Established in 1686, Le Procope is famed as the oldest café-restaurant in Paris.

Voltaire, Rousseau, and even Benjamin Franklin once graced its tables.

Today, you can savor French favorites—coq au vin, crème brûlée—in a living piece of literary history.

 

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    2. Brasserie Lipp

    151 Bd Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris

     

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    Founded in 1880, Lipp has hosted writers, politicians, and celebrities for generations.

    Its classic dishes—choucroute, andouillette—and spirited atmosphere have endured, making it one of the Left Bank’s most storied brasseries.

     

    1. Le Train Bleu

    Gare de Lyon, Pl. Louis Armand hall 1, 75012 Paris

     

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    Housed in the Gare de Lyon since 1901, Le Train Bleu is nothing short of a palace on rails.

    From the ornate woodwork to the glittering chandeliers, every inch is lavish.

    The menu pays homage to timeless French gastronomy (roast lamb, foie gras), served with impeccable style.