Avail. January 4th, 2024
Faubourg Saint-Martin – 41 m²
Mornings are spent sipping café au lait at corner bistros as locals greet each other with effortless chic, while afternoons unfold along the Seine, where art and history come alive at every turn. The city’s rhythm is a blend of sophistication and laid-back flair, from the elegance of Haussmannian architecture to the creativity pulsing through areas like Le Marais and Montmartre. Culinary delights are endless, with bustling markets and intimate patisseries offering fresh bread, rich cheeses, and the famed French pastries that make each day feel indulgent. Yet beneath its postcard-perfect exterior, Paris is a vibrant metropolis of innovation, where heritage meets modernity, and life’s finest pleasures are always within reach.
Paris stands as the undisputed culinary capital of the world, where food is not merely sustenance but a celebration of artistry and tradition. From Michelin-starred temples of gastronomy to charming bistros tucked in quiet side streets, the city offers an unparalleled array of dining experiences. The markets hum with the vibrancy of seasonal produce, while patisseries turn out delicate pastries that have become global icons in their own right. French cuisine, with its emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and time-honoured techniques, is showcased in every corner of Paris, making it a living classroom for chefs and food lovers alike. Whether indulging in a perfectly crafted croissant at dawn or savouring a sophisticated dégustation menu at dusk, Paris remains a place where food and culture are inseparable, and every meal is an experience to be savoured. Here’s where to eat in Paris, a list of the cheapest Michelin-starred restaurants.
Benoit, one of Paris’ most iconic Michelin-starred bistros, brings the timeless charm of French cuisine under the expert direction of celebrated chef *Alain Ducasse*. This historic eatery, dating back to 1912, offers a refined take on traditional French dishes, with Ducasse preserving its rich culinary heritage while adding his signature touch. Among the standout dishes are the *Pâté en Croûte* and the hearty *Cassoulet*, both showcasing the chef’s commitment to classic flavors. Benoit’s inviting ambiance and menu make it a must-visit for those seeking a true taste of Parisian bistro dining, where heritage and Michelin-star quality converge.
Benoit (1 star)
20 rue Saint-Martin
75004 Paris
In one of Paris’ most famous and iconic hotels, Pavillon de La Reine is Restaurant Anne, named after Queen Anne of Austria, who lived in Place des Vosges. Arguably one of the best valued Michelin meals, their set menu of 89€ allows diners one starter, one meat fish, one fish dish and a dessert to round it out. Under the creative direction of celebrated chef Mathieu Pacaud. The restaurant’s sleek, minimalist interior – with its light oak furnishings, soft lighting, and muted tones – sets the tone for a sophisticated yet unpretentious meal. Pacaud’s set lunch menu is a perfect showcase of his talent, blending seasonal ingredients with modern French techniques. Dishes such as a silky cauliflower velouté or roasted duck with a fragrant citrus glaze reveal the depth of flavour he draws from simple, high-quality produce. The ambience is warm and inviting, with attentive service and a quiet hum of conversation that makes it feel like a hidden gem, offering a relaxed oasis amidst the vibrant bustle of Paris. For those seeking a taste of Pacaud’s culinary brilliance without the formality of fine dining, Anne delivers a perfect balance of creativity and comfort.
Anne (1 star)
28 Place des Vosges
75003 Paris
Located in the 7th arrondissement, Auguste is a refined gem that delivers an unforgettable dining experience, where innovation meets French tradition with impeccable finesse. The minimalist yet chic interior, with its sleek white walls, contemporary art, and soft lighting, creates a relaxed but elegant atmosphere — perfect for those looking for a refined escape in the heart of Paris. Chef Geoffrey Fores' menu is a sophisticated blend of seasonal ingredients and cutting-edge technique, with signature dishes like the melt-in-your-mouth foie gras, served with a tangy rhubarb compote, and a delicate line-caught fish, perfectly paired with a velvety sauce. The tasting menu is a journey, each course a revelation, and complemented beautifully by a wine list that features both well-known French regions and hidden gems. To start the evening, expertly crafted cocktails set the tone for an experience that feels both intimate and modern, effortlessly embodying the essence of contemporary Parisian dining.
Auguste (1 star)
54 Rue de Bourgogne
75007 Paris
Substance, tucked away in the refined 16th arrondissement, is a quiet revelation in the city's ever-evolving dining scene. Under the meticulous guidance of chef Matthias Marc, the restaurant delivers a menu that redefines modern French cuisine with elegance and subtlety. The interiors, minimal and chic, feature soft lighting, natural wood, and sleek design, setting the stage for an immersive culinary experience. Marc’s signature dishes, like the perfectly cooked roasted cod paired with delicate beurre blanc or a sublime roasted pigeon with root vegetables, showcase his skill in balancing bold flavours with finesse. Every plate at Substance tells a story of high-quality, seasonal ingredients, elevated with a contemporary twist. The atmosphere is calm and refined, offering an intimate setting where guests can savour each course at a leisurely pace, with attentive service that feels both professional and personal. Substance is a restaurant where every detail, from the food to the ambiance, feels considered and sophisticated, making it a standout for anyone seeking a true taste of modern Parisian fine dining.
Substance (1 star)
18 rue de Chaillot
75016 Paris
In Sentier is Pantagruel, an intimate culinary retreat where chef Jason Gouzy reimagines French classics with refreshing originality. The restaurant’s sleek, yet serene interiors invite an atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the buzz of the neighborhood. Gouzy’s menu is a masterclass in refined comfort, with signature dishes like his succulent pigeon roasted to perfection, served with earthy salsify and rich jus, or a playful take on foie gras, elevated by seasonal fruit pairings that bring unexpected brightness to the palate. Each plate is crafted with an eye for detail, showcasing Gouzy's commitment to technique and his playful nod to French tradition. Pantagruel is effortlessly sophisticated, with a relaxed ambiance and attentive service that makes each guest feel at home — the kind of place that’s both polished and approachable, perfect for those looking to experience the artistry of modern French cuisine.
Pantagruel (1 star)
24 Rue du Sentier
75002 Paris
In the heart of Paris' 1st arrondissement, Omar Dhiab’s eponymous restaurant is a quiet but powerful entry in the city’s fine dining scene, offering a fresh take on French gastronomy that is both intricate and deeply personal. The space is elegant yet understated, with muted tones, minimalist decor, and a warm, inviting glow that feels intimate and carefully curated to keep the spotlight on the food. Chef Omar Dhiab crafts each dish with a delicate precision, transforming familiar ingredients into refined, artful compositions. Signature dishes like his tender lobster, gently poached and served with a fragrant bisque, or a deceptively simple roasted cauliflower adorned with seasonal herbs, showcase his talent for balancing depth with subtlety. Dhiab’s approach is refreshingly restrained yet undeniably sophisticated, blending French tradition with a light, inventive touch that invites guests to experience Parisian dining in a new way. It’s a space where flavours feel pure, and every detail—from the plating to the service—reflects Dhiab’s commitment to elegance and innovation.
Omar Dhiab
23 Rue Hérold
75001 Paris
