Is It Worth Eating At The Eiffel Tower Restaurant in France?

Last updated on February 21st, 2024 at 05:39 pm

Thinking about eating at the Eiffel Tower on your next trip to Paris and wondering if it’s worth it?

Well, I can happily say it’s definitely worth eating at the Eiffel Tower Restaurant in France. Not only do you get some of the best views of the French capital, but it’s an experience like no other.

Since its inauguration in 1889 for the Universal Exposition, this most famous monument has featured various restaurants, cafes, and buffets at different levels. 

When I went a few years ago, we worked up an appetite by skating on the ice rink on the first level, but sadly, it’s no longer a feature.

But whether you’re drinking champagne at the top of the tower or indulging in a gastronomic delight at the Michelin star restaurant, it’s an unforgettable experience you won’t forget.

Eating at the Eiffel Tower Restaurant in France

In 1889, the year of the Universal Exhibition in Paris, the very first Eiffel Tower restaurant opened its doors on the first floor. 

There are now two main restaurants, one on the first floor and one on the second, both run by world-famous chefs with Michelin stars.

📌 Insider tip! Ask to have a window table that’s north-facing for the best views. But be prepared to pay more for these tables.

The 2 Eiffel Tower Restaurants

Madame Brasserie

Madame Brasserie restaurant opened on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower in 2022 and is in the hands of Thierry Marx, a Michelin-starred chef who makes all the dishes with local ingredients.

With an extensive wine list and classic French cuisine including dishes such as foie gras, steak tartare and seafood platters, it’s the perfect place to enjoy lunch with a view or a romantic dinner for two.

There is even a private elevator to whisk you up to the first floor to give you the complete VIP experience.

Serving Times

• Breakfast: For breakfast with a view, Madame Brasserie serves a traditional French breakfast, between 10 am – 12 pm, and there is no need to reserve a table.
• Lunch: There are two lunch sittings daily at 12 pm and 1:30 pm, and you should make a reservation if you want to get a guaranteed table. There’s nowhere better to enjoy a three-course meal with all of Paris laid out before you.
• Snacks and Afternoon Tea: Between 3 pm – 6 pm daily, you can enjoy pastries and light snacks without worrying about a reservation.
• Dinner: Dinner is served at 6:30 pm and 9 pm, and there is a choice of two set menus, The Gustave Menu and The Grand Dame Menu, both with plenty of French dishes to choose from. It’s your chance to see Paris lit up at night with a glass of something sparkling in your hand. Reservations are advisable.

WHAT OTHERS HAVE SAID

Having dinner at the Eiffel Tower was the highlight of our trip. The food and service were excellent, and we really enjoyed ourselves.

karen

Le Jules Vernes Restaurant

If it’s gourmet cuisine you’re after in an iconic location, then Le Jules Verne with its beautiful decor is a fine-dining Michelin-starred restaurant with amazing views, which won’t disappoint.

It opened its second-floor doors led by chef Thierry Marx in 1983 and since 2020 has been led by Chef Frédéric Anton. With a private entrance, you’ll get to skip the long lines and queues with no waiting around.

You’ll want to book well in advance to avoid disappointment and remember that sneakers and sportswear are not allowed, so plan your outfit accordingly.

📌 Insider tip! The best time to go is at night as the view of Paris at night when it’s all lit up really takes your breath away.

The Early Access Breakfast Experience

Start your day off the perfect way with breakfast at Le Jules Verne. Enjoy early access to the Eiffel Tower before the general public is allowed in, and take the private elevator to the second floor. 

Indulge in an exquisite French breakfast of pastries, eggs benedict, fresh juices, coffee and fruit designed by Frédéric Anton and take in the early morning views as the city of Paris wakes up.

WHAT OTHERS HAVE SAID

Awesome experience; felt like a VIP! We were the first on the Eiffel Tower and the breakfast was amazing! The views were spectacular.

annette

Are the Eiffel Tower restaurants expensive?

If you think about the experience of eating at this iconic landmark with its breathtaking views, then no, it isn’t expensive to eat at the Eiffel Tower.

However, it all depends on which restaurant you choose and what time of day you go.

Lunch and dinner at either restaurant are more pricey than breakfast, and Le Jules Vernes Restaurant is considered the more expensive of the two.

I’ve done both as I’ve been to Paris many times and it’s hard to choose between the two.

Is there a dress code for lunch and dinner?

Although there is no official dress code for either restaurant smart casual attire is expected, and sportswear is not allowed at Le Jules Verne.

The Eiffel Tower Bars and Casual Dining

If you’re looking for something quick and easy, especially if you’re with kids, then there are several casual buffets, or snack bars, to choose from on the Esplanade, 1st floor, and 2nd floor, which won’t send your budget sky-high.

Champagne Bar Eiffel Tower

Right at the very top of the Eiffel Tower, at an altitude of 276m, is the Champagne Bar, offering the best views in all of Paris. Either take the elevator or climb up to the summit and take in the sights sipping a glass of bubbly or something softer.

Choose from G.H.Mumm white or rosé, and if you fancy something really special, pair it with some Caviar.

There isn’t any dress code, and no reservations are required but you will need a ticket and expect to pay between €15 to € 20 for a glass of champagne.

The Macaron Bar

The Macaron Bar is on the lower level of the second floor and is a must-visit for those with a penchant for sweets, specifically macarons. 

Designed by the acclaimed “Picasso of Pastry,” Pierre Hermé, you’ll find a variety of macaron flavours alongside other sweet delights like tarts, cakes, chocolates, and teas. 

As part of the partnership, Pierre created two macarons to celebrate the Iron Lady, Jardin sur la Seine and Jardin sur les toits.

Jardin sur la Seine celebrates Paris as the City of Love with dark chocolate, raspberry ganache, and raspberry confit. 

Jardin sur les toits, on the other hand, has a slightly spicy scent of bergamot, paired with the sweet taste of Paris honey and the caramelised note of blond chocolate.

FAQS: Restaurants in the Eiffel Tower

Final thoughts: Dinner at the Eiffel Tower

I don’t care what anyone says, Paris is one of the best cities in the world to visit. It doesn’t matter what time of year, the City of Lights is always beautiful and there is always something to do.

The choice of hotels is huge and it’s the city of choice for a weekend getaway in Europe.

From the coffee shops to the wonderful Bouillon Paris Restaurants that have recently seen a revival, there are no shortages of places to eat and many with Eiffel Tower views.

However, if you get a chance to enjoy dinner at the Eiffel Tower, then do it, you won’t regret it and an unbeatable gastronomic experience.

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