Frederic Simonin

Cuisine

Michelin-starred French gastronomy showcasing seasonal ingredients, masterful sauces, and precise technique from Meilleur Ouvrier de France Frédéric Simonin.

The Vibe

An intimate, refined atmosphere that balances Michelin-starred sophistication with the warmth of a Parisian salon.

Frédéric Simonin cultivates an atmosphere that feels distinctly Parisian yet refreshingly unpretentious for a Michelin-starred establishment. The restaurant eschews the sometimes intimidating formality of haute cuisine in favor of a more intimate, welcoming approach that puts guests at ease while maintaining impeccable standards of service and presentation.

The dining room exudes a sense of quiet sophistication, where conversations flow naturally and the focus remains on the culinary experience rather than ostentatious display. The space feels like a private dining room in a well-appointed Parisian home, creating an environment where guests can fully immerse themselves in the gastronomic journey without distraction. This cozy, bourgeois ambiance near the Ternes neighborhood attracts a discerning clientele who appreciate refined cuisine in a setting that feels both special and comfortable.

The service style reinforces this balanced approach—attentive and knowledgeable without being stuffy, professional yet personable. Staff members demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for the cuisine and wine program, sharing insights about preparations and pairings in a manner that enhances rather than interrupts the dining experience. The pacing of meals allows for relaxed enjoyment, whether you're savoring a business lunch or celebrating a special evening.

Decoration

A sophisticated Parisian apartment aesthetic with beige tones, parquet floors, and elegant mirrors creating an intimate bourgeois setting.

The interior design at Frédéric Simonin evokes the refined elegance of a classic Parisian apartment, creating an environment that feels both luxurious and intimately residential. The restaurant's décor centers on a sophisticated beige palette that provides a neutral, calming backdrop for the colorful presentations that arrive from the kitchen.

Parquet flooring adds warmth and authenticity to the space, grounding the room in traditional Parisian style while contributing to the overall sense of being in a private residence rather than a commercial dining establishment. Strategically placed mirrors enhance the sense of space and light, reflecting the soft illumination that bathes the dining room in a flattering, comfortable glow. These mirrors also add depth to the relatively intimate space, creating visual interest without overwhelming the understated elegance of the overall design.

The furnishings and table settings maintain this balance between comfort and refinement. Tables are dressed with quality linens and appointed with elegant tableware that complements rather than competes with the cuisine. The layout provides appropriate spacing between tables, ensuring privacy for conversations while maintaining the cohesive atmosphere of the room. Every element of the décor has been chosen to support the dining experience—sophisticated enough to match the caliber of the cuisine, yet warm enough to encourage guests to relax and enjoy their meal without feeling constrained by excessive formality.

Uniqueness

A Meilleur Ouvrier de France's Michelin-starred restaurant offering exceptional value through refined lunch menus and masterful sauce work in an intimate setting.

Frédéric Simonin distinguishes itself in Paris's competitive gastronomic landscape through several unique attributes that elevate it beyond typical Michelin-starred establishments. Most notably, the restaurant offers exceptional value, particularly during lunch service, where guests can experience the chef's Michelin-starred cuisine through well-priced menus starting at €65 for two courses—a rarity for this caliber of cooking in Paris.

The chef's status as Meilleur Ouvrier de France 2019 represents one of the highest honors in French cuisine, a distinction that guarantees exceptional technical skill and dedication to craft. This prestigious title, combined with the restaurant's Michelin star and Gault&Millau rating of 16/20 as a Table Remarquable, positions Frédéric Simonin among Paris's elite dining destinations while maintaining a more intimate, accessible atmosphere than many competitors.

Simonin's particular mastery of sauces and jus has become a signature element that sets the restaurant apart. In an era when many contemporary chefs focus on minimalist presentations, Simonin's commitment to these classical elements of French cuisine—executed with modern precision—provides a distinctive dining experience that honors tradition while embracing innovation. His ability to create remarkable depth of flavor through these preparations demonstrates both technical excellence and creative vision.

The restaurant's setting in a bourgeois Parisian apartment-style space, rather than a more conventional fine dining environment, creates a unique atmosphere that balances sophistication with intimacy. This approach makes Michelin-starred dining feel more approachable and personal, removing barriers that sometimes prevent diners from fully enjoying haute cuisine experiences.

The availability of private parking represents a practical advantage rare among Paris restaurants, particularly in this category. Combined with the restaurant's location near the Ternes neighborhood—slightly removed from the most tourist-heavy areas—Frédéric Simonin offers a more authentic Parisian dining experience while remaining easily accessible.

The thoughtful attention to details beyond the main courses—from the selection of artisanal breads to the choice of quality coffees—demonstrates a comprehensive approach to hospitality that ensures every element of the meal receives appropriate consideration. The wine program's focus on selections from renowned vignerons, with options available by the glass, allows for sophisticated pairings without requiring full bottle purchases.

Insider Tips

Book well in advance for this popular Michelin-starred restaurant, and consider the exceptional value lunch menus for your first visit.

Reservations at Frédéric Simonin are essential and should be made well in advance, particularly for dinner service and weekend availability. The restaurant operates Monday through Friday only, closing on Saturdays and Sundays, as well as throughout August—a detail to keep in mind when planning your visit. You can book directly through the restaurant's website at www.fredericsimonin.com or via their online reservation system.

For first-time visitors or those seeking exceptional value, we strongly recommend experiencing the lunch service. The two-course menu at €65 or three-course option at €85 provides an accessible entry point to Simonin's Michelin-starred cuisine at prices significantly lower than dinner tasting menus, while maintaining the same standards of quality and execution. Lunch service runs from 12:00 to 14:00, offering a more relaxed timeframe than some Parisian restaurants.

If you're driving, take advantage of the private parking facility—a rare amenity for Paris restaurants that eliminates the stress of finding street parking in the 17th arrondissement. However, note that pets are not permitted in the dining room, so plan accordingly if you typically travel with animals.

The restaurant's wine program offers excellent selections by the glass, allowing you to explore pairings without committing to full bottles. Don't hesitate to consult with the sommelier about options that complement your chosen menu—the staff's knowledge and enthusiasm for the wine program can significantly enhance your experience.

Pay attention to the bread and coffee selections, as these details reflect the restaurant's comprehensive approach to quality. The variety of artisanal breads and choice of quality coffees demonstrate the same care applied to every element of the meal.

For dinner, arrive at or shortly after the 19:30 opening to enjoy a more leisurely pace, as the restaurant serves until 22:00. The tasting menu format works best when you can relax and savor each course without feeling rushed.

Given the restaurant's intimate size and popularity, flexibility with dates can improve your chances of securing a reservation. If your preferred date is unavailable, consider adjusting your schedule—the experience is worth planning around.

Must-try Dishes

Royale de foie gras, Lièvre à la royale, Dessert litchi framboise eau de rose, Menu Dégustation