Guide: Where to eat in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Paris

Saint-Germain-des-Prés, sitting in the heart of Paris’s Left Bank, is a captivating blend of historic charm and modern-meets-classic Parisian living.

Once the intellectual hub of existentialist philosophers like Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir, today it brims with stylish boutiques, art galleries, and world-famous cafés like Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore. Its cobblestone streets weave through centuries-old architecture, where antique bookshops and chic fashion houses coexist effortlessly. The neighborhood’s artistic soul is mirrored in its vibrant cultural scene, with the iconic Saint-Germain Abbey and contemporary art venues offering a rich tapestry of experiences. Saint-Germain exudes an understated elegance, perfect for those seeking both Parisian authenticity and cosmopolitan flair.

@saintgermaindespres_org

WHAT'S IT LIKE TO LIVE IN THE 6TH ARRONDISSEMENT OF PARIS

Living in the 6th arrondissement of Paris places you at the heart of the city’s most iconic landmarks, offering a lifestyle that blends everyday elegance with extraordinary proximity to history. Just steps from your door, you’ll find the famed Luxembourg Gardens, where locals jog, picnic, and enjoy peaceful afternoons amid manicured lawns. A leisurely walk along the Seine leads you to Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Louvre, making cultural immersion a part of daily life. Whether you’re admiring the masterpieces at the Musée d’Orsay or savoring the vibrant atmosphere at Odéon, living in the 6th arrondissement means the best of Paris is never more than a stroll away.

WHERE TO GO FOR WEEKEND BRUNCH: MAISON SAUVAGE

The café's lush, greenery-draped facade sets the tone for a relaxed yet stylish affair, where you can indulge in a vibrant mix of French and international brunch favorites. Sip on freshly squeezed juices or a signature mimosa as you savor decadent avocado toast, fluffy pancakes, or classic eggs Benedict, all crafted with fresh, local ingredients. The buzzing atmosphere spills out onto the cobblestone street, making it perfect for people-watching while enjoying an alfresco meal. With its lively ambiance and delicious offerings, Maison Sauvage transforms brunch into a leisurely, gourmet escape in one of Paris’ most picturesque neighborhoods.

Maison Sauvage
5 Rue de Buci
75006 Paris

@maisonsauvageparis
@lanouvellegarde

WHERE TO GO FOR PEOPLE WATCHING IN PARIS: BRASSERIE DES PRÉS

This new spot, which appeared in the opening scene of season 4 of Emily In Paris, is a modern twist on Parisian brasserie dining, blending contemporary flair with classic French gastronomy. The sleek, stylish interiors provide a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere, perfect for leisurely meals or chic dinners with friends. The menu is a delightful mix of French comfort food with an inventive edge — think steak tartare, roasted chicken, and decadent truffle pastas, all prepared with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Pair your meal with a carefully curated wine list or a signature cocktail as you soak in the lively ambiance. Brasserie des Prés combines culinary tradition with a cosmopolitan vibe, making it a go-to spot for both locals and visitors looking for a fashionable dining experience in one of Paris' most charming neighborhoods.

Brasserie Des Prés
6 Cr du Commerce Saint-André
75006 Paris

WHERE TO GO FOR A FRENCH BISTRO EXPERIENCE: BRASSERIE LIPP

Dining at Brasserie Lipp, an iconic institution on Boulevard Saint-Germain, is a step back in time to the golden age of Parisian brasseries. Since 1880, this historic spot has been serving classic French fare to writers, artists, and politicians alike. The menu is a celebration of traditional French cuisine, from rich cassoulet and buttery escargots to perfectly grilled steak-frites and decadent desserts like mille-feuille. Pair your meal with a crisp Chablis or a robust Bordeaux as you soak in the timeless atmosphere—think dark wood paneling, red leather banquettes, and an air of old-world elegance. Brasserie Lipp is not just a meal; it’s a taste of Parisian history, where the food is as authentic as the culture that surrounds it.

Brasserie Lipp
151 Bd Saint-Germain
75006 Paris

@lippbrasserie
@laperouse_paris

WHERE TO GO FOR A SPECIAL OCCASION DINNER IN PARIS: LAPÉROUSE

Dining at Lapérouse, perched along the Seine, is an enchanting journey into Parisian romance and history. Housed in a 17th-century mansion with lavishly appointed private dining rooms, this legendary restaurant exudes an intimate, old-world charm perfect for a candlelit evening. Once frequented by literary greats like Victor Hugo, Lapérouse continues to dazzle with its refined French cuisine. Indulge in exquisite dishes like foie gras, lobster, or perfectly seared filet mignon, paired with selections from an extensive wine list that highlights the finest vintages. The opulent interiors, adorned with gilded mirrors and plush velvet, create a dreamlike atmosphere where every detail whispers of Parisian elegance. Dining here feels like a timeless escape, where the art of romance and gastronomy converge along the banks of the Seine.

Lapérouse
51 Quai des Grands Augustins
75006 Paris

WHERE TO TAKE OUT-OF-TOWNERS VISITING PARIS FOR THE FIRST TIME: CAFÉ DE FLORE

Dining at Café de Flore, one of Paris' most legendary cafés, is an immersion into the city's intellectual and cultural heritage. This iconic spot has been a favorite haunt of literary giants like Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, and Albert Camus. The timeless art deco interiors, with red leather banquettes and mirrored walls, evoke an atmosphere of old Paris, where philosophers and artists once debated over coffee. Today, the café serves classic French dishes, from buttery croissants and tartines for breakfast to croque-monsieurs and hearty salads for lunch. Pair your meal with a glass of wine or their famously rich hot chocolate while soaking in the historic ambiance. At Café de Flore, the food is deliciously simple, but it’s the history and charm that make each meal feel like a chapter of Paris’ storied past.

Café de Flore
172 Bd Saint-Germain
75006 Paris

@parislens

If you’re considering moving to Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Paris, check out our available apartment rentals here

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