The 9 Best Delicious Restaurants in Paris (Tastes Locals Swear By)

The 9 Best Delicious Restaurants in Paris (Tastes Locals Swear By)

An expertly curated selection of Parisian culinary treasures.

Last update on 2025-04-25

Paris and extraordinary food go hand in hand like wine and cheese, but finding genuinely remarkable dining experiences amid the sea of options can be overwhelming. The City of Light boasts over 14,000 must-try restaurants in Paris, ranging from humble bistros to lavish establishments adorned with Michelin stars. What truly distinguishes Parisian dining is not just technical perfection, but the reverence for quality ingredients and centuries-old culinary traditions adapted with modern sensibilities. Whether you're craving classic French cuisine or innovative fusion creations, the Parisian food scene offers something for every palate and pocket. The heart of French gastronomy beats strongest here, where meals aren't just sustenance but celebrations—cherished moments where time slows down and flavorful dining Paris takes center stage.

Café du Coin

Café du Coin

A revitalized corner bistro where traditional French comfort food meets natural wines in a welcoming neighborhood setting.

Café du Coin represents the best of Paris's neo-bistro movement, breathing new life into the classic corner café format. Situated on a quiet intersection in the 11th arrondissement, this welcoming spot has become a favorite among locals and food-savvy visitors alike. The restaurant's charm lies in its successful balance of old and new—the traditional zinc bar and vintage tiles remain, while the kitchen brings a contemporary approach to bistro classics. The team behind natural wine bar Le Dauphin has created a space where unpretentious comfort food is elevated through quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation. What makes Café du Coin special is its genuine neighborhood feel combined with seriously good cooking. The menu changes regularly but always includes hearty mains alongside shareable small plates that pair perfectly with their extensive natural wine selection. You'll find yourself settling in for what was planned as a quick meal, only to linger for hours as the warm service and convivial atmosphere work their magic.

  • The vibe: Classic Parisian bistro with a modern sensibility—think vintage décor, casual service, and a mixed crowd of neighborhood regulars and food enthusiasts. The atmosphere is bustling yet relaxed.
  • The food: Updated French bistro cuisine with occasional international influences. Dishes are generous and flavor-forward, with an emphasis on quality ingredients rather than elaborate techniques.
  • Must-try: Duck terrine with pickled vegetables; Pork belly with lentils and mustard sauce; Crispy potato galette topped with seasonal mushrooms; Chocolate mousse served tableside from a large copper bowl.
  • Insider Tips: The daily specials, written on the blackboard, often showcase the kitchen's most creative offerings and seasonal finds. Don't shy away from the more unusual natural wines—the staff is excellent at suggesting bottles that complement your meal perfectly.
  • Price: €€
  • Rating: 4.4/5 (782 reviews on Google Maps)
  • Address: 9 Rue Camille Desmoulins, 75011 Paris
Clamato

Clamato

A casual seafood-focused sister restaurant to Septime where small plates shine and natural wines flow freely.

Just a few doors down from its famous sibling Septime, Clamato offers a more accessible yet equally mouthwatering experience centered around the treasures of the sea. This no-reservations spot has become a weekend institution in the 11th arrondissement, drawing locals and visitors alike with its relaxed vibe and consistently excellent seafood. The compact space features a long bar where you can watch the kitchen team shuck oysters and plate beautiful seafood creations with remarkable efficiency. What makes Clamato special is its ability to showcase the purest flavors of each ingredient, whether it's a simple oyster with mignonette or a more complex preparation. The menu changes daily based on the freshest catches, written on a blackboard that servers helpfully explain. The restaurant's commitment to sustainable fishing practices means you can enjoy your meal knowing it's been thoughtfully sourced. You'll find yourself wanting to order "just one more dish" as the small plates format encourages exploration across the menu.

  • The vibe: Warm and convivial with shared wooden tables, a bustling open kitchen, and a lively crowd. The atmosphere is casual and energetic, perfect for lingering over multiple small plates and glasses of natural wine.
  • The food: Fresh seafood prepared with minimal intervention to highlight natural flavors. The focus is on sustainable fish and shellfish, complemented by seasonal vegetables and house-made condiments.
  • Must-try: Oysters with shallot vinegar; Lobster toast with coral mayo; Mackerel tartare with preserved lemon; Chocolate tart with sea salt.
  • Insider Tips: Arrive right when they open (noon for lunch, 7pm for dinner) to avoid the inevitable queue, especially on weekends. If you're seated at the bar, ask the chefs about their favorite items that day—they often have recommendations not explicitly detailed on the menu.
  • Price: €€€
  • Rating: 4.4/5 (1371 reviews on Google Maps)
  • Address: 80 Rue de Charonne, 75011 Paris
Clown Bar

Clown Bar

A historic belle époque bar transformed into one of Paris's most playful fine dining spots, serving inventive small plates in a circus-themed setting.

Housed in what was once the canteen for the winter circus next door, Clown Bar retains its whimsical heritage through original circus-themed ceramic tiles and painted glass ceilings depicting clowns. This historical charm provides a fitting backdrop for some of the most creative cooking in Paris. The kitchen delivers dishes that are both technically precise and surprisingly playful, reflecting the venue's unique character. What makes Clown Bar special is its ability to deliver serious gastronomy without taking itself too seriously. The small plates format encourages sharing and exploration, while the carefully curated wine list focuses on natural and biodynamic options from small producers. The restaurant has become a fixture in the international food scene, attracting chefs and food lovers who appreciate its boundary-pushing approach combined with genuine hospitality. You'll find yourself pointing at neighboring tables' dishes, curious about each artistic creation coming from the open kitchen.

  • The vibe: Lively and eclectic with stunning belle époque décor featuring vintage clown-themed tiles and art. The atmosphere is buzzing with conversation, creating an energetic yet intimate dining experience.
  • The food: Contemporary French cuisine with Japanese influences and a focus on unusual ingredients and fermentation techniques. The kitchen is known for its creative handling of offal and seasonal vegetables.
  • Must-try: Veal brain with capers and brown butter; Duck heart skewers with sansho pepper; Wild mushrooms with egg yolk sauce; Chocolate and buckwheat dessert with smoked vanilla ice cream.
  • Insider Tips: The counter seats surrounding the open kitchen offer the best view of the chefs at work and increase your chances of receiving the occasional off-menu bite the team is testing. In nice weather, the few outdoor tables are perfect for people-watching in this artistic neighborhood.
  • Price: €€€
  • Rating: 4.3/5 (1158 reviews on Google Maps)
  • Address: 114 Rue Amelot, 75011 Paris
Khun Akorn International

Khun Akorn International

A colorful culinary journey through regional Thai cuisine in an unassuming 11th arrondissement storefront.

Behind its modest façade, Khun Akorn International delivers a bold and authentic exploration of Thailand's diverse regional cuisines. The restaurant stands out in Paris's growing Thai food scene by focusing on lesser-known specialties beyond the usual pad thai and green curry. The small, colorful space is decorated with vintage Thai advertisements and family photographs, creating an atmosphere that feels transported from Bangkok. What makes Khun Akorn special is its dedication to regional specialties from across Thailand, particularly the fiery dishes from the north and northeast that are rarely found elsewhere in Paris. The kitchen doesn't compromise on heat levels or funky fermented flavors, resulting in dishes with the complex depth that defines true Thai cooking. The restaurant's friendly owners take time to explain unfamiliar dishes, guiding newcomers through the menu while encouraging culinary adventure. You'll discover new favorite Thai dishes you never knew existed, expanding your understanding of this sophisticated cuisine beyond the simplified versions often served in Europe.

  • The vibe: Casual and cheerful with bright colors, Thai music, and a steady stream of both Thai expats and adventurous French diners. The atmosphere is unpretentious and fun, perfect for relaxed dining.
  • The food: Regional Thai specialties with an emphasis on northern and northeastern (Isaan) cuisine. Dishes feature authentic ingredients imported from Thailand, including herbs, spices, and fermented products.
  • Must-try: Nam prik ong (northern Thai chili dip with pork and vegetables); Laab ped (spicy duck salad with toasted rice powder); Gaeng pa (jungle curry without coconut milk); Khao niew mamuang (mango with sticky rice) during mango season.
  • Insider Tips: Ask for the separate Thai menu that's typically offered to Thai customers—it contains regional specialties not listed on the main menu. Explaining that you're interested in authentic flavors will often lead to personalized recommendations from the chef-owner.
  • Price: €€€
  • Rating: 4.3/5 (803 reviews on Google Maps)
  • Address: 8 Av. de Taillebourg, 75011 Paris
Epicure

Epicure

Triple Michelin-starred excellence where French culinary tradition meets artistic innovation in the heart of Paris's golden triangle.

Hidden within the luxurious Le Bristol hotel, Epicure stands as one of Paris's most celebrated gastronomic temples. Chef Eric Frechon has maintained his three Michelin stars since 2009, creating dishes that honor French tradition while pushing culinary boundaries. The restaurant overlooks a stunning French garden, providing a serene backdrop for an extraordinary meal. The service here strikes that perfect Parisian balance: attentive without being intrusive, knowledgeable without being pretentious. What makes Epicure truly special is how it transforms dining into an event—each course tells a story through flavor, presentation, and the rich history of French cuisine. The restaurant's commitment to seasonal ingredients means the menu constantly evolves, showcasing the finest products from across France. You'll find yourself in a space where every detail matters, from the elegant place settings to the carefully curated wine list featuring some of France's most prestigious bottles.

  • The vibe: Refined elegance with white tablecloths, soft lighting, and impeccable service. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet comfortable, making special occasions feel even more memorable.
  • The food: Contemporary French haute cuisine that respects tradition while embracing innovation. Chef Eric Frechon sources the finest seasonal ingredients to create dishes of remarkable precision and depth.
  • Must-try: Stuffed macaroni with black truffle, artichoke, and duck foie gras; Bresse chicken poached in a bladder with crayfish; Chocolate soufflé with intense cocoa sorbet.
  • Insider Tips: Request a table overlooking the garden during the warmer months, and allow at least three hours to fully appreciate the tasting menu experience. The bread cart alone is worth the visit.
  • Price: €€€€
  • Rating: 4.7/5 (1483 reviews on Google Maps)
  • Address: 112 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, 75008 Paris
Le Clarence

Le Clarence

A two Michelin-starred château experience in the heart of Paris where French haute cuisine meets daring creativity and exceptional wines.

Housed in a stunning 19th-century mansion just steps from the Champs-Élysées, Le Clarence offers one of Paris's most extraordinary dining environments. The restaurant is owned by Prince Robert of Luxembourg, proprietor of Château Haut-Brion, connecting this Parisian gem directly to one of Bordeaux's most prestigious wine estates. Chef Christophe Pelé creates cuisine that respects French tradition while incorporating unexpected elements and techniques that surprise and delight. Each room of the mansion has been meticulously restored, creating intimate dining spaces that feel more like a private home than a restaurant. What makes Le Clarence special is its balance of opulent surroundings with cuisine that remains playful and unpretentious despite its technical brilliance. The tasting menu evolves constantly, following the chef's inspiration rather than a fixed progression of dishes. The wine program, as expected given the ownership, is exceptional, featuring rare vintages from Haut-Brion and La Mission Haut-Brion alongside a thoughtfully curated selection from other regions. You'll experience French fine dining that feels both timeless and thoroughly contemporary, served in a setting that rivals the palatial splendor of Versailles.

  • The vibe: Opulent yet intimate with multiple small dining rooms featuring period furniture, artwork, and lavish décor reminiscent of a private mansion. The atmosphere is refined but comfortable, with impeccable service that remains approachable.
  • The food: Modern French haute cuisine that respects classical techniques while incorporating surprising flavor combinations and international influences. The cooking style is bold yet precise, with a focus on intense flavors and creative presentation.
  • Must-try: Langoustine with foie gras and black truffle; Pigeon with cocoa and cherry sauce; Sea urchin with cauliflower cream and caviar; Chocolate soufflé with tobacco ice cream and rum.
  • Insider Tips: Request a table in the red salon on the first floor for the most romantic setting. Wine enthusiasts should inquire about special bottles from Haut-Brion that aren't on the regular list—the sommelier often has access to rare vintages for special occasions.
  • Price: €€€€
  • Rating: 4.7/5 (696 reviews on Google Maps)
  • Address: 31 Av. Franklin Delano Roosevelt, 75008 Paris
Orchid Thai

Orchid Thai

An elegant Thai dining room where royal court recipes meet contemporary presentation in the trendy 11th arrondissement.

Orchid Thai elevates Thai cuisine to fine dining status in Paris, focusing on the refined recipes once served in Thailand's royal court. Set in a sleek, contemporary space in the fashionable 11th arrondissement, the restaurant offers a more upscale approach to Thai food than most of its Parisian counterparts. Delicate carved vegetable garnishes and artistic plating demonstrate the kitchen's commitment to presentation without sacrificing authentic flavors. What makes Orchid Thai special is its ability to introduce Parisians to the sophisticated side of Thai gastronomy, moving beyond street food to showcase the country's complex culinary heritage. The menu features less common dishes alongside familiar favorites, all prepared with premium ingredients and careful attention to the balance of flavors. The restaurant's elegant cocktail program draws on Thai ingredients like lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime, offering perfect pairings to complement the aromatic cuisine. You'll appreciate the refined service and thoughtful wine list that includes options specifically selected to work with Thai flavors—something still relatively rare in Paris's Thai restaurant scene.

  • The vibe: Sophisticated and serene with contemporary décor, soft lighting, and elegant table settings. The atmosphere is upscale yet relaxed, making it suitable for romantic dinners and business meals alike.
  • The food: Refined Thai cuisine focusing on royal Thai recipes and presentation. Dishes feature traditional flavor profiles elevated through premium ingredients and artistic plating.
  • Must-try: Miang kham (betel leaf wraps with dried shrimp and coconut); Chor muang (steamed flower-shaped dumplings with chicken and peanut filling); Panang curry with Australian lamb rack; Coconut soufflé with passion fruit coulis.
  • Insider Tips: The chef offers a special tasting menu that isn't advertised but provides the best overview of the kitchen's capabilities. Request it when making your reservation, mentioning any preferences or restrictions, for a personalized royal Thai experience.
  • Price: €€
  • Rating: 4.6/5 (931 reviews on Google Maps)
  • Address: 10 Cr de Vincennes, 75012 Paris
Septime

Septime

A modern bistro where Chef Bertrand Grébaut crafts minimalist, produce-driven dishes that have earned both a Michelin star and international acclaim.

Septime has firmly established itself as one of Paris's most sought-after dining destinations, where securing a reservation feels like winning a culinary lottery. Located in the hip 11th arrondissement, this restaurant champions a farm-to-table philosophy long before it became fashionable elsewhere. Chef Bertrand Grébaut, who trained under Alain Passard, brings a light touch to his cooking, allowing pristine ingredients to shine through minimal intervention. The tasting menu changes frequently based on market availability, reflecting a deep commitment to seasonality and sustainability. What makes Septime truly special is its unpretentious approach to fine dining—the wooden tables, open kitchen, and relaxed service create an atmosphere where exceptional food doesn't come with stiffness or formality. The restaurant offers a genuine connection to the current Parisian food scene, where quality and ethics matter as much as flavor. You'll leave understanding why international food critics and locals alike continue to rave about this understated gem.

  • The vibe: Casual yet refined with an industrial-chic décor featuring wooden tables, exposed brick, and plenty of natural light. The ambiance strikes a perfect balance between relaxed and special occasion worthy.
  • The food: Neo-bistro cuisine focusing on vegetables and sustainable seafood. The menu changes regularly based on seasonal availability, with dishes that are visually stunning yet never sacrificing flavor for appearance.
  • Must-try: Raw sea bream with citrus and herbs; Roasted vegetables with beef jus; Poached white asparagus with wild garlic sabayon; Chocolate ganache with olive oil and sea salt.
  • Insider Tips: Reservations open exactly three weeks in advance and fill within minutes. Set an alarm and be ready to call precisely when the booking line opens. If you can't secure a dinner spot, lunch is slightly easier to book and offers the same exceptional experience.
  • Price: €€€
  • Rating: 4.4/5 (1299 reviews on Google Maps)
  • Address: 80 Rue de Charonne, 75011 Paris

Krung Thep

An authentic Thai haven in eastern Paris where vibrant flavors transport diners straight to the streets of Bangkok.

Tucked away in the 20th arrondissement, Krung Thep (Bangkok's Thai name) offers some of the most authentic Thai cuisine you'll find in Paris. Away from the tourist centers, this restaurant has built a devoted following among locals seeking genuine Southeast Asian flavors without compromise. The modest dining room, decorated with Thai artifacts and family photos, creates an intimate setting for a culinary journey to Thailand. What makes Krung Thep special is its unwavering commitment to traditional recipes and proper spicing—unlike many Thai restaurants in Europe, they don't tone down the heat for local palates. The family-run operation ensures consistency and care in every dish, from perfectly balanced som tam to complex curries simmered with housemade curry pastes. The restaurant's location in the diverse Belleville-Ménilmontant area reflects Paris's evolving food landscape, where some of the city's most exciting international cuisines can be found beyond the central arrondissements. You'll leave with a newfound appreciation for the complex balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy that defines proper Thai cooking.

  • The vibe: Cozy and unpretentious with simple décor, family photos, and Thai artwork creating an authentic neighborhood restaurant feel. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, with many regulars greeted by name.
  • The food: Traditional Thai cuisine with an emphasis on balancing the four fundamental Thai flavors: spicy, sour, sweet, and salty. Dishes are prepared with imported Thai ingredients and house-made curry pastes.
  • Must-try: Som tam (green papaya salad) with salted crab; Tom yum soup with river prawns; Gaeng panang (rich curry with lime leaves); Mango with coconut sticky rice.
  • Insider Tips: When they ask about your spice preference, be honest—their scale runs hotter than most Parisian Thai restaurants. The chef's specials written in Thai on the small blackboard are worth asking about, as they often feature seasonal specialties not on the regular menu.
  • Price: €€
  • Rating: 4.7/5 (373 reviews on Google Maps)
  • Address: 132 Grande Rue, 91290 Arpajon

About Kollection

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. Our advanced AI-powered analysis ensures only the crème de la crème makes the cut. And because our process is 100% independent—no paid placements here—you can trust every selection to be genuinely exceptional: - Expert Insights: Paris locals with in-depth knowledge of the city's culinary experiences. - Prestigious Distinctions: Recognition from trusted sources like Michelin, Le Fooding, and The World's 50 Best Restaurants. - Authentic Customer Feedback: Summarized reviews and ratings from platforms like Google Maps and TripAdvisor. - Current Trends: The latest hotspots and must-visit locations that define Parisian dining today.

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