The best Parisian bistros

The best Parisian bistros

The best Parisian bistros will enrich your visits to the French capital with a sweet melody that has very French undertones. Indeed, what could be more French than a bistro? The whole world has tried to draw inspiration from them everywhere, but the Parisian bistro is, of course, best… in Paris!

According to Le Petit Robert, a bistro is defined as “a café, a drinking establishment (usually small and modest).” This is precisely what it is, and Paris has always been filled with these establishments where one can dine, often very well and sometimes at low prices.

Parisian bistros are, in every neighborhood, endless sources of joy, where you can meet colorful characters—Parisian ones, of course. Despite the significant rise in prices everywhere, bistros have been less affected, and foot traffic there remains relatively stable, much to everyone’s delight.

For more recommendations on the best Parisian bistros or other good addresses in Paris, like Tastet favorites in Paris, and to help you navigate the City of Light during your stay, download our Tastet+ app.

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Café du coin

It is often said that happiness is found in the simple things in life. Café du Coin in the 11th arrondissement seems to follow this magic formula to the letter. At first glance, it appears to be just another café at the corner of two streets, like many others in Paris. However, when you linger a bit, you might find yourself staying there for a good part of the day. Don’t hesitate to settle in; from breakfast to dinner, the lovely team welcomes you and treats you to delightful dishes at affordable prices.

9 Rue Camille Desmoulins
Paris
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Bistrot Des Tournelles

Le Bistrot des Tournelles is the new kid on the block, shining alongside the more established ones. If you’re wondering why, just look at the sign on the front of this establishment in the 12th arrondissement: “Specialties of meats and wines from Beaujolais.” It’s a simple concept, but oh so comforting! Get your forks ready; one bite of the famous cordon bleu, and you’ll be hooked.

6 Rue des Tournelles
Paris
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Parcelles

At this address in the 3rd arrondissement, white tablecloths and festivities are the order of the day. The menu at Parcelles continues to receive accolades from all over Paris. The star of the menu? The sweetbreads, which are the guest of honor for both lunch and dinner, along with potato gnocchi with sage butter and calf’s head carpaccio. As for the wine list, it features beautiful appellations and rare labels.

13 Rue Chapon
Paris
Cafe Ministeres

Café des Ministères

Café des Ministères in the 7th arrondissement is one of those legendary spots in the capital where, on one hand, it’s very difficult to get a reservation, and on the other, it’s impossible not to loosen your belt a notch when leaving because the portions are gargantuan. Here, generosity goes hand in hand with precision, both in service and on the menu. Just between us, the owner couple will serve you the best vol-au-vent of your life… and every word is carefully chosen.

83 Rue de l'Université
Paris
Baratin

Le Baratin

Le Baratin is the restaurant in the 20th arrondissement that everyone keeps returning to and never tires of. A victim of its own success, the restaurant is always packed, both at lunch and dinner. The services roll on, but nothing changes; all the delights on the menu seem to have remained the same since the bistro opened in the late 1980s. Le Baratin is still impeccable. While the entire menu is worth trying, co-owner and chef Raquel Carena has several surprising recipes, including stuffed cabbage, veal sweetbreads, and brain with lemon that are to die for. We might want to keep this bistro a secret if it weren’t already adored by Parisians, chefs from around the world, and food-loving tourists.

3 Rue Jouye-Rouve
Paris
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Le Mermoz

Good bistronomy spots are rare in the vibrant Champs-Élysées area. Yet, Le Mermoz, this little gem of a neo-bistro in the 8th arrondissement, delights us with every visit thanks to its creative cuisine that blends tradition and modernity. The dazzling pairings, a well-crafted selection of natural wines, and a decor that is both beautiful and effective make it a must-visit.

16 Rue Jean Mermoz
Paris
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Le Cadoret

Perched on the heights of this part of Belleville, in the 19th arrondissement, lies a little bistronomic haven where happiness shines on the plate. At Cadoret, you can indulge in revisited classics, rhythmically inspired by the seasons, all paired with good wines in small or large formats. With a relaxed atmosphere and truly satisfying indulgence, it’s the perfect spot from early morning until midnight.

1 Rue Pradier
Paris
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Bistrot Paul Bert

A true institution in the Faidherbe neighborhood of the 11th arrondissement, Bistrot Paul Bert serves up classic Parisian dishes with consistent excellence. Despite its global success and appearances on numerous international shows, this spot remains one of our favorites in Paris and embodies the essence of a French bistro. With offerings like knife-cut tartare, marrow bones, farmhouse pork chop, peppered beef tenderloin with fries, and Grand Marnier soufflé, just reading this makes our mouths water! The bustling atmosphere of this Parisian bistro has never been more delightful.

18 Rue Paul Bert
Paris
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Les Arlots

The famous bistro on Rue du Faubourg Poissonnière in the 10th arrondissement seems to stand the test of time without ever losing its charm. Some even say it embodies ultimate comfort. While their renowned knife-cut sausage and mashed potatoes have established the place’s reputation, the entire menu is worth exploring or re-discovering, as the establishment showcases a perfect mastery of classic Parisian bistro dishes. Let yourself be guided by the sommelier, who navigates among the thousand and one references on the wall of natural wines.

136 Rue du Faubourg Poissonnière
Paris
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