Paris is full of history, and its cafés and restaurants are part of it. Some have been around for centuries and are now famous landmarks. In this article, I’ll explore some of the oldest spots, like La Petite Chaise from the 1600s and the elegant Le Train Bleu. Each place has its own story, showing the culture, art, and food of Paris through the years.
La Tour d’Argent – Founded in 1582
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La Tour d’Argent is not just a restaurant; it’s a Parisian legend.
Known for its invention of pressed duck and its royal history, this fine dining establishment boasts breathtaking views of Notre-Dame and an unrivaled wine cellar.
Dining here is an unforgettable experience, blending French culinary excellence with over four centuries of history.
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La Petite Chaise – Founded in 1680
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La Petite Chaise, located at 1 rue du Pont aux Choux, is often cited as the oldest restaurant in Paris.
Founded in 1680, this historic establishment has stood the test of time, offering traditional French cuisine.
With its authentic decor and rich history, it remains a true Parisian institution.
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Le Procope – Founded in 1686
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Le Procope, at 13 Rue de l’Ancienne Comédie, is the oldest café in Paris and a landmark of intellectual life.
Established in 1686 by Francesco Procopio dei Coltelli, it hosted illustrious figures such as Voltaire, Diderot, and Benjamin Franklin.
Today, it retains its historic charm, filled with mementos from its storied past.
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Au Chien Qui Fume – Founded in 1740
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Located near Les Halles, Au Chien Qui Fume (“The Smoking Dog”) is one of Paris’s oldest brasseries.
Known for its charming name and classic French dishes, this historic spot has been serving Parisians for nearly three centuries.
Its cozy interiors and timeless recipes make it a must-visit for fans of Parisian history.
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Lapérouse – Founded in 1766
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Lapérouse, located on the banks of the Seine, has been a symbol of Parisian elegance since 1766.
Originally a meeting place for writers, artists, and lovers, it’s famous for its intimate private dining rooms, historic mirrors, and discreet charm.
This legendary spot offers a taste of Paris’s romantic and literary past, paired with exquisite French cuisine.
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Le Grand Véfour – Founded in 1784
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Located at 17 rue de Beaujolais, Le Grand Véfour is a gem of French gastronomy.
Opened in 1784, it is renowned for its elegance and luxurious decor, featuring frescoes and gilded mirrors.
Frequented by historical figures like Napoleon and Victor Hugo, it stands as a testament to 18th-century splendor.
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L’Escargot Montorgueil – Founded in 1832
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This iconic restaurant on Rue Montorgueil has been delighting diners with its famous escargots for nearly 200 years.
L’Escargot Montorgueil is a Parisian institution, offering classic French cuisine in a historic setting.
Its golden snail sign and elegant interiors create a memorable dining experience in one of the city’s liveliest neighborhoods.
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Polidor – Founded in 1845
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Polidor is a charming, no-frills restaurant in the Latin Quarter that has been serving hearty French classics for more than 175 years.
With its communal wooden tables, vintage vibe, and connection to literary greats like James Joyce, it offers a truly authentic slice of Parisian life in a historic setting.
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Café de la Paix – Founded in 1862
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Opened in 1862, Café de la Paix, near the Opéra Garnier, is a symbol of Parisian elegance.
With its Second Empire decor and refined atmosphere, this café has hosted numerous celebrities and continues to attract an international clientele.
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Brasserie Bofinger – Founded in 1864
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Located in the Marais, Brasserie Bofinger is often called the oldest Alsatian brasserie in Paris.
Its elegant Belle Époque design, complete with a stunning stained-glass ceiling, adds to the charm.
Specializing in Alsatian dishes like choucroute (sauerkraut with sausages), it’s a blend of history, style, and delicious French cuisine.
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L’Européen – Founded in 1867
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Located just across from Gare de Lyon, L’Européen is a Belle Époque brasserie that has been welcoming diners since 1867.
Known for its timeless decor, this elegant spot serves traditional French dishes in a lively, historic setting.
Its proximity to the train station makes it a convenient and memorable stop for travelers.
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Les Deux Magots – Founded in 1885
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Established in 1885, Les Deux Magots is located in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
Known as a gathering spot for intellectuals and artists such as Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, and Ernest Hemingway, this café offers a classic setting with a bohemian atmosphere.
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Café de Flore – Founded in 1885
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Opened the same year as Les Deux Magots, Café de Flore is another iconic intellectual hotspot.
Located at 172 boulevard Saint-Germain, it has hosted writers, philosophers, and artists.
Its Art Deco decor and warm ambiance make it a favorite for enjoying a coffee or meal.
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Bouillon Chartier – Founded in 1896
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Founded in 1896, Bouillon Chartier is famous for its bustling atmosphere and Belle Époque decor.
Located at 7 rue du Faubourg Montmartre, this restaurant is dedicated to providing traditional French cuisine at affordable prices, in an authentic setting where time seems to stand still.
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Le Dôme Café – Founded in 1898
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Established in 1898, Le Dôme Café at 108 boulevard du Montparnasse was a hub for artists and writers in the early 20th century.
Known for its seafood, this café retains a traditional ambiance and a decor reminiscent of Montparnasse’s golden era.
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Le Train Bleu – Founded in 1901
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Inaugurated in 1901, Le Train Bleu is a landmark restaurant in the Gare de Lyon.
Its sumptuous Belle Époque decor, featuring frescoes, chandeliers, and carved woodwork, provides a luxurious dining experience that transports guests to another era.
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La Rotonde – Founded in 1911
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Founded in 1911, La Rotonde, at 105 boulevard du Montparnasse, is a legendary brasserie known for being a haven for artists and intellectuals.
Figures like Picasso and Modigliani found inspiration here.
Today, La Rotonde continues to attract a diverse clientele, blending tradition with modernity.
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With a passion for travel and having visited over 50 countries, Dorian is eager to share his favorite spots and expert tips to help you explore Paris and France like a local.
