Paris and the Costes name share a storied relationship that has shaped the city's dining scene for decades. When you mention 'Costes' to a Parisian, you'll likely see a knowing smile cross their face – these legendary venues have become synonymous with the capital's chicest dining experiences. The Costes brothers have crafted more than just restaurants; they've created social institutions where food, ambiance, and people-watching merge into unforgettable experiences. From celebrity sightings to beautiful interiors, these establishments offer a glimpse into a certain Parisian lifestyle that continues to fascinate locals and visitors alike. Whether you're seeking a lavish brunch, a glamorous dinner, or simply a coffee at one of the city's most stylish addresses, the Costes empire delivers with its signature blend of sophistication and scene.
Brasserie Thoumieux
A revitalized classic brasserie in the 7th arrondissement where traditional French cuisine meets contemporary Costes-inspired styling.
Situated on rue Saint-Dominique in the aristocratic 7th arrondissement, Brasserie Thoumieux represents hotelier Thierry Costes' take on the traditional Parisian brasserie, updated for contemporary sensibilities. The interior, designed by India Mahdavi, balances heritage elements with bold contemporary touches that revitalize rather than reinvent the brasserie concept. The restaurant sits at the base of Hotel Thoumieux, creating a complete hospitality experience that attracts both hotel guests and Parisians who appreciate the kitchen’s commitment to brasserie classics executed with precision. The clientele reflects the neighborhood's upscale character—politicians from the nearby government ministries, elegant locals, and sophisticated visitors who have discovered this slightly under-the-radar gem. What distinguishes Thoumieux within the Costes universe is its deeper respect for culinary tradition while maintaining the group's signature aesthetic appeal.
- The vibe: Refined comfort with a buzz of energy. The space feels warmly traditional yet fresh, attracting a well-heeled crowd that spans generations.
- The food: Classic French brasserie cuisine executed with technical precision and quality ingredients. The menu honors tradition while ensuring contemporary relevance through thoughtful sourcing and presentation.
- Must-try: The house foie gras terrine, perfectly executed sole meunière, and the Paris-Brest pastry with praline cream.
- Insider Tips: The banquettes along the wall offer the most comfortable seating for lingering meals. For a unique experience, ask about the day's off-menu chef's special, which often features seasonal ingredients not found on the regular menu.
- Rating: 4/5 (527 reviews on Google Maps)
- Address: 79 Rue Saint-Dominique, 75007 Paris
Café Beaubourg
A front-row seat to Pompidou plaza life with the reliable Costes formula of stylish interiors and people-watching perfection.
Situated at the foot of the Centre Pompidou, Café Beaubourg offers one of the most strategic people-watching positions in Paris. This Costes establishment embraces its location at the crossroads of art, tourism, and everyday Parisian life with a terrace that acts as a theater facing the plaza’s constant performance art. Inside, the décor follows the familiar Costes aesthetic with warm woods, comfortable seating, and carefully considered lighting that flatters both the space and its occupants. What sets Café Beaubourg apart from its siblings is its slightly more relaxed approach—it’s where you’ll find art gallery owners, Marais residents, and visiting academics mingling in a space that feels less intimidating than other Costes venues while maintaining the group's signature polish.
- The vibe: Artistic and intellectual with a comfortable buzz. The crowd blends neighborhood regulars, cultural professionals, and visitors drawn by the Centre Pompidou.
- The food: Classic French café fare elevated with quality ingredients and precise execution. The menu offers familiar comfort without sacrificing sophistication.
- Must-try: The goat cheese salad with honey dressing, perfectly executed steak frites with béarnaise sauce, and tarte tatin.
- Insider Tips: The window seats inside offer the best of both worlds—climate control with unobstructed views of the plaza's street performers and passing crowds. In winter, this is far preferable to the terrace.
- Price: €€
- Rating: 3.9/5 (2603 reviews on Google Maps)
- Address: 43 Rue Saint-Merri, 75004 Paris
Café Français
A modernized take on the traditional Parisian brasserie bringing Costes-style glamour to the historic Place de la Bastille.
Overlooking the iconic Place de la Bastille, Café Français represents the Costes brothers' contemporary reinterpretation of the classic Parisian brasserie. Designed by India Mahdavi, the space balances nostalgic brasserie elements with bold modern touches that create a visually striking setting. The expansive terrace offers front-row seats to the bustling Bastille intersection, while the plush interior provides a more intimate experience. What makes Café Français distinctive within the Costes portfolio is its neighborhood positioning—while maintaining the group's signature style and service standards, it feels more integrated into everyday Parisian life. You'll find a diverse clientele here, from opera-goers from the nearby Opéra Bastille to fashion industry professionals and residents of the trendy 11th arrondissement who appreciate the reliable quality and buzzing atmosphere.
- The vibe: Energetic and democratic with a fashionable edge. The atmosphere bridges traditional brasserie conviviality with contemporary design sensibility, attracting a diverse crowd that spans generations and professions.
- The food: Updated French classics that respect tradition while incorporating modern techniques and presentation. The kitchen delivers reliable quality with occasional creative flourishes.
- Must-try: The seafood platter, perfectly crisp duck confit with roasted potatoes, and profiteroles with warm chocolate sauce.
- Insider Tips: The corner banquettes offer the best combination of comfort and people-watching. Come for a late afternoon drink to secure a prime spot before the dinner rush transforms the space.
- Price: €€
- Rating: 4.6/5 (4632 reviews on Google Maps)
- Address: 24 Rue Saint-Ambroise, 75011 Paris
Café Germain
A two-level Saint-Germain hotspot where fashion meets art in a space that perfectly captures the Costes aesthetic.
Located in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Café Germain stands as one of the most visually distinctive entries in the Costes portfolio. The ground floor offers a more accessible café experience, while the upstairs restaurant delivers the full Costes treatment with India Mahdavi's bold design and a massive Xavier Veilhan sculpture dominating the space. This artistic approach perfectly suits the neighborhood's gallery-rich environment while maintaining the group's signature attention to atmosphere and service details. The clientele reflects the dual nature of the space—gallery owners and collectors mix with fashion industry figures and sophisticated tourists who have graduated beyond the area's more obvious establishments. Unlike some Costes venues that can feel transplanted into their locations, Café Germain genuinely engages with its artistic surroundings while maintaining the group's unmistakable style.
- The vibe: Artistic and fashion-forward with vibrant energy. The space shifts from casual daytime café to see-and-be-seen dinner destination as evening approaches.
- The food: Contemporary French with creative presentations. The kitchen balances accessibility with enough artistic flair to complement the design-forward space.
- Must-try: The salmon tartare with avocado, roasted chicken with seasonal vegetables, and the pavlova with fresh berries.
- Insider Tips: The upstairs restaurant requires reservations, but the ground floor café operates on a first-come basis. Arrive around 7pm to secure a prime spot for aperitif hour when the space fills with the neighborhood's most stylish residents.
- Price: €€€
- Rating: 3.7/5 (490 reviews on Google Maps)
- Address: 25 Rue de Buci, 75006 Paris
Café Marly
A spectacular Louvre-facing terrace where Parisian elegance meets tourist accessibility under the watchful eye of the Costes group.
Perfectly positioned beneath the arcades of the Louvre Museum with front-row views of the glass pyramid, Café Marly offers one of the most prestigious dining locations in Paris. This Costes group establishment balances its tourist-attracting location with an authentically chic Parisian atmosphere that keeps locals coming back. The interiors pay homage to French classical design with a contemporary twist, featuring rich red upholstery and marble tabletops that complement the historic architecture. While tourists snap photos of the Louvre from the terrace, fashion industry insiders and art dealers conduct business meetings inside. The service maintains the signature Costes blend of efficient professionalism with a dash of studied aloofness that has become part of the experience.
- The vibe: Refined yet relaxed elegance with a mix of international visitors and well-heeled Parisians. The terrace buzzes with energy while the interior offers more intimate sophistication.
- The food: Reliable French brasserie classics executed with precision and presented with flair. The menu doesn’t take risks but delivers quality with a focus on fresh ingredients.
- Must-try: The truffle croque monsieur, perfectly prepared beef tartare, and the lemon tart for dessert.
- Insider Tips: Skip the peak lunch hours if you want a prime terrace table without a reservation. Arrive around 3pm when the lunch crowd has dispersed but before the evening gatherings begin.
- Price: €€€
- Rating: 3.7/5 (9014 reviews on Google Maps)
- Address: 93 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris
Hôtel Costes
The original temple of Parisian chic where celebrities, fashion insiders, and the beautiful people come to see and be seen.
Located in the heart of the 1st arrondissement, Hôtel Costes stands as the quintessential Parisian hotspot that launched the Costes brothers' hospitality empire. This opulent establishment, with its Jacques Garcia-designed interiors, creates an atmosphere of dark, sensual luxury that has become the brothers' signature style. The courtyard terrace, arguably one of the most coveted spots in Paris during warmer months, offers a lush retreat from the city bustle. Here, beneath the canopy of greenery, you'll dine alongside fashion editors, models, and celebrities who have made this their Parisian headquarters. The Costes experience goes beyond mere dining—it's about inhabiting a carefully crafted world of exclusivity that has maintained its allure despite numerous imitators over the years.
- The vibe: Darkly opulent with velvet-covered furniture, candlelit corners, and a soundtrack that's become so famous it spawned its own music series. The crowd is international, fashionable, and sometimes refreshingly notorious.
- The food: The menu offers beautifully presented French classics with Asian influences, overseen by chef Didier Mendez. The kitchen maintains high standards with dishes that complement the setting rather than outshine it.
- Must-try: The tiger prawn carpaccio, Costes chicken with creamy mashed potatoes, and the chocolate mousse with salted caramel.
- Insider Tips: Reserve well in advance for the courtyard in summer. For the full experience, come for a late lunch that transitions into evening cocktails as the DJ sets the mood around 7pm.
- Price: €€€€
- Rating: 4/5 (2946 reviews on Google Maps)
- Address: 7 Rue de Castiglione, 75001 Paris
La Société
A Saint-Germain-des-Prés literary quarter institution where Costes elegance meets Left Bank intellectual heritage.
Nestled on the Place Saint-Germain-des-Prés, La Société is the Costes brothers' tribute to the Left Bank's storied intellectual history, reimagined through their contemporary lens. Christian Liaigre's interior design creates a sophisticated atmosphere with warm woods and leather banquettes that feels both timeless and decidedly modern. The location puts you at the heart of Saint-Germain's literary heritage, steps from Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots, yet La Société carves out its own distinct identity with a more polished, international approach. The clientele reflects this blend of tradition and cosmopolitanism—publishing executives lunch alongside fashion designers, while visiting celebrities appreciate the discreet service and relative privacy afforded by the intimate space. The terrace, while not the restaurant's main draw, offers prime positioning for observing the rhythm of one of Paris's most charming neighborhoods.
- The vibe: Literary chic with understated luxury. The space feels exclusive without being showy, attracting a crowd that values discretion and comfort alongside style.
- The food: Refined French cuisine with subtle global influences. The menu balances familiar favorites with elegant innovations, maintaining consistent quality rather than chasing culinary trends.
- Must-try: The langoustine ravioli, perfectly cooked sole meunière, and the chocolate soufflé with vanilla ice cream.
- Insider Tips: The bar area offers the most interesting people-watching within the restaurant and can sometimes accommodate walk-ins when the dining room is fully booked. For the ultimate experience, request the corner table by the window that offers views of both the interior and the historic church across the square.
- Price: €€€€
- Rating: 4.1/5 (592 reviews on Google Maps)
- Address: 4 Pl. Saint-Germain des Prés, 75006 Paris
Le Georges
A modernist aerie atop the Centre Pompidou offering panoramic Paris views with Costes-style service and scene-making energy.
Perched on the top floor of the Centre Pompidou, Le Georges stands as one of the most visually striking restaurants in Paris. The futuristic design by Jakob + MacFarlane, with its curved white pods and floor-to-ceiling windows, creates a space that feels both of the moment and timeless. This Costes group restaurant cleverly balances its dual identity as both a tourist destination and a legitimate hangout for the Parisian creative class. The breathtaking 180-degree views sweep from Montmartre to the Eiffel Tower, providing a geographic context to your dining experience that few restaurants can match. The staff maintains the trademark Costes attitude—beautiful, aloof, yet ultimately professional—moving gracefully through the space as the sunset transforms the restaurant into a glowing nighttime hotspot.
- The vibe: Sleek and cosmopolitan with a mix of art enthusiasts, fashion industry fixtures, and visitors seeking the quintessential Paris rooftop experience. The atmosphere shifts from casual daytime dining to see-and-be-seen evening glamour.
- The food: Contemporary French cuisine with Asian and Mediterranean influences. The kitchen balances the need to please international palates while maintaining sufficient creativity to interest regular Parisian clientele.
- Must-try: The tuna tartare with avocado, the Georges burger with truffle fries, and the chocolate sphere dessert with hot caramel sauce.
- Insider Tips: Request a table along the western-facing windows for sunset and Eiffel Tower views. The restaurant allows entry for drinks at the bar without reservations, which can be a strategic entry point if the dining room is fully booked.
- Price: €€€
- Rating: 3.9/5 (7234 reviews on Google Maps)
- Address: du Centre Georges Pompidou, 75004 Paris
Restaurant Amour
A bohemian-chic dining spot where South Pigalle's creative energy meets Costes-inspired hospitality in an intimate garden setting.
Tucked away in the increasingly fashionable South Pigalle district, Restaurant Amour brings the Costes sensibility to a more bohemian setting. Created by Thierry Costes in collaboration with artist and nightlife entrepreneur André Saraiva, the restaurant extends the concept of the adjoining Hotel Amour with a similar artistic, slightly risqué aesthetic. The garden terrace is an unexpected oasis in this densely urban neighborhood, offering a lush retreat that feels worlds away from the city despite being steps from bustling rue des Martyrs. The crowd skews creative—musicians, artists, and fashion industry figures who appreciate the relaxed yet curated atmosphere. While maintaining high standards of service and cuisine, Restaurant Amour feels less formal than other Costes establishments, with a playfulness that suits its name and neighborhood.
- The vibe: Bohemian-luxe with an intimate, creative energy. The atmosphere is casual yet carefully curated, attracting a crowd that values both style and authenticity.
- The food: French bistro classics with contemporary touches and market-driven seasonal ingredients. The kitchen focuses on straightforward preparation that lets quality ingredients shine.
- Must-try: The tuna carpaccio with citrus, perfectly executed steak tartare, and the chocolate pot de crème.
- Insider Tips: The garden terrace is one of Paris's best-kept secrets—reserve well in advance for summer evenings. During colder months, request a table near the glass wall overlooking the garden to enjoy the greenery while staying warm inside.
- Price: €€
- Rating: 3.9/5 (342 reviews on Google Maps)
- Address: 8 Rue de Navarin, 75009 Paris
Hôtel Amour
A boutique hotel with a restaurant that captures the artistic spirit of South Pigalle with Costes-influenced hospitality and style.
Situated in the heart of South Pigalle, Hôtel Amour has established itself as a cornerstone of the area's creative renaissance. The hotel's restaurant, conceived by Thierry Costes and nightlife impresario André Saraiva, brings together the Costes attention to detail with a more playful, artistic sensibility. The space is filled with eclectic art pieces and vintage furniture that create an atmosphere of curated imperfection—a stark contrast to the more formal Costes establishments but sharing the same commitment to creating a distinct world for guests. The clientele reflects the neighborhood’s evolution from its red-light district past to its current status as a creative hub—fashion photographers, musicians, and advertising professionals gather here alongside travelers seeking a more authentic Parisian experience. The intimate courtyard garden provides a surprisingly tranquil backdrop for dining, especially during summer months.
- The vibe: Artistically charged with a casual-cool atmosphere. The space feels like the living room of a particularly stylish friend, encouraging relaxed socializing that often extends late into the evening.
- The food: Straightforward French bistro fare with quality ingredients and unfussy presentation. The menu prioritizes satisfaction over innovation, delivered with consistent execution.
- Must-try: The beef carpaccio with parmesan, roast chicken for two with herb butter, and the apple tart with vanilla ice cream.
- Insider Tips: The restaurant transforms throughout the day—come for a late morning coffee to enjoy the space at its most calm, or after 10pm when the neighborhood's night owls create a more energetic atmosphere. The small tables along the garden edge offer the best balance of people-watching and relative privacy.
- Price: €€
- Rating: 4/5 (954 reviews on Google Maps)
- Address: 8 Rue de Navarin, 75009 Paris
At Kollection, we pride ourselves on curating trustworthy, local-approved recommendations crafted by Parisians born and raised in the city. Unlike traditional guides, our team of experts scours a robust database of over 16,000 establishments in Paris, blending data from renowned sources like Michelin, Google Maps, Le Fooding, Thefork, The World 50best with the buzz of Instagram reels and the authenticity of real reviews.
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