Paris and escargots are a match made in culinary heaven. While it may be a novel experience for visitors, local chefs turn escargot into an art form. Each bite, perfectly seasoned with butter, garlic, and parsley, encapsulates the essence of French gastronomy. From traditional preparations in charming bistros to modern reinterpretations in Michelin-starred restaurants, this guide will lead you to the best places to try this iconic dish.
Au Doux Raisin
A charming Latin Quarter bistro where Burgundian snails shine in a cozy, authentic setting.
Tucked away on a quiet street in the historic Latin Quarter, Au Doux Raisin offers a genuine slice of traditional French dining. This family-owned bistro has built a loyal following for its exceptional escargots, prepared according to an old Burgundian recipe passed down through generations. The intimate dining room, with its exposed stone walls and vintage wine posters, creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels distinctly Parisian without trying too hard. What sets their escargots apart is the quality of ingredients - they source directly from a small producer in Burgundy and prepare them with a butter mixture that's heavy on fresh herbs and enhanced with a splash of white wine. The result is escargots that taste intensely flavorful without being overwhelmingly garlicky. The restaurant's name, meaning "The Sweet Grape," hints at another strength: a thoughtfully curated wine list featuring excellent Burgundies that pair perfectly with your snail starter.
- The vibe: Cozy and unpretentious with a neighborhood feel that attracts local academics from nearby universities, discerning tourists, and longtime regulars who appreciate authentic French cooking.
- The food: Traditional French bistro fare with a strong Burgundian influence. The menu changes seasonally, but always features several preparations of escargots alongside other regional specialties.
- Must-try: Classic escargots in garlic-herb butter, Escargots served in their shells with a Chablis sauce, Cassolette of escargots with forest mushrooms
- Insider Tips: Visit on Wednesday evenings when the owner's father, a former chef, often helps in the kitchen and prepares a special off-menu escargot dish that varies each week - just ask your server what Papa has created today.
- Price: €€
- Rating: 4.4/5 (565 reviews on Google Maps)
- Address: 29 Rue Descartes, 75005 Paris
Benoit
Alain Ducasse's historic bistro serving refined escargots that honor tradition while showcasing culinary excellence.
Holding the distinction of being one of Paris's oldest bistros (established in 1912) and now under the stewardship of legendary chef Alain Ducasse, Benoit represents the perfect marriage of historic charm and culinary precision. Located in the heart of the Marais, this Michelin-starred establishment has preserved its original Art Nouveau décor, from the mahogany bar to the red velvet banquettes to the ornate ceiling moldings, creating an atmosphere of authentic Parisian elegance. Their escargots exemplify the restaurant's philosophy of respecting tradition while executing with exceptional skill. Using only the finest Burgundy snails, the kitchen prepares them with a butter that's infused with garlic, shallots, and an assortment of herbs that have been slowly dried to concentrate their flavors. The presentation is classically simple, allowing the extraordinary quality of the ingredients and preparation to shine. What truly sets Benoit's escargots apart is the perfect temperature at which they're served - hot enough to keep the butter bubbling slightly but not so hot that you can't appreciate the complex flavors immediately.
- The vibe: Refined yet comfortable bistro atmosphere that balances luxury with accessibility. Attracts food enthusiasts, business diners, and special occasion celebrants looking for exceptional French cuisine in a historical setting.
- The food: Classic French bistro cuisine elevated through superior ingredients and technical precision. The menu honors traditional recipes while subtly updating them with contemporary sensibilities.
- Must-try: Escargots de Bourgogne with herb butter, Pâté en croûte, Cassoulet with duck confit
- Insider Tips: The restaurant maintains a special cellar of aged Armagnacs dating back several decades. After your meal, ask your server to recommend a vintage that pairs well with your birth year or another significant date - it's a splurge, but the taste of history makes for an unforgettable conclusion to your meal.
- Price: €€€€
- Rating: 4.2/5 (2286 reviews on Google Maps)
- Address: 20 Rue Saint-Martin, 75004 Paris
Bouillon Chartier
Historic budget-friendly dining hall serving classic escargots in a lively Belle Époque setting.
A Parisian institution since 1896, Bouillon Chartier offers the rare opportunity to enjoy traditional escargots in a stunning historical setting without breaking the bank. The concept of "bouillons" - restaurants serving simple, affordable food to workers - has experienced a revival in Paris, and Chartier stands as the magnificent original. Walking into the soaring dining room with its Belle Époque splendor, mirrored walls, and long communal tables creates an immediate sense of stepping back in time. Their escargots are refreshingly straightforward - prepared in the classic Burgundian style with plenty of garlic and parsley butter, served piping hot in their traditional dimpled dish. What these escargots lack in innovation, they make up for in authentic execution and exceptional value. The restaurant's unique charm extends to the service, where waiters in traditional black and white attire write your order directly on the paper tablecloth and calculate your bill by hand. The combination of historical ambiance, reasonable prices, and properly prepared escargots makes Chartier an essential Parisian dining experience.
- The vibe: Bustling, energetic dining hall with a democratic atmosphere that welcomes everyone from budget travelers to local office workers to families spanning multiple generations, all seated side by side at long tables.
- The food: Traditional French classics served quickly and affordably. The menu has barely changed in decades, focusing on straightforward preparations of bistro standards.
- Must-try: Classic escargots de Bourgogne, Leeks vinaigrette, Steak frites
- Insider Tips: Arrive right when they open at 11:30 am or during the afternoon lull around 3 pm to avoid the notorious queues that often stretch down the block. If you're seated with strangers at a shared table (part of the authentic bouillon experience), a friendly "Bonjour" can lead to unexpectedly delightful mealtime conversations.
- Price: €
- Rating: 4.1/5 (27571 reviews on Google Maps)
- Address: 7 Rue du Faubourg Montmartre, 75009 Paris
Le Poulbot
A Montmartre gem serving perfectly executed escargots with spectacular views of Paris.
Perched on the slopes of Montmartre, Le Poulbot combines spectacular city views with some of the most carefully prepared escargots in Paris. This charming restaurant, named after the street children of old Montmartre immortalized in Francisque Poulbot's drawings, offers a genuine neighborhood feel away from the tourist crowds at Sacré-Cœur. The dining room, with its red-checkered tablecloths and vintage photos of the neighborhood, creates a nostalgic atmosphere that complements the classic cuisine. Their escargots arrive sizzling hot, bathed in a butter sauce that achieves the perfect balance of garlic and parsley, with a hint of shallot that adds complexity. What makes their preparation special is the attention to texture - the snails remain tender without becoming rubbery, a common pitfall in lesser establishments. The friendly staff, many of whom have worked here for decades, treat regulars and newcomers with equal warmth, creating a dining experience that feels authentically Parisian.
- The vibe: Cozy, neighborhood bistro with a local atmosphere that provides a welcome respite from the tourist-heavy areas of Montmartre. Popular with artistic locals and visitors looking for authentic Parisian dining.
- The food: Traditional French bistro fare with a focus on recipes from northern and eastern France. The menu features seasonal ingredients and changes regularly, though the escargots remain a constant favorite.
- Must-try: Traditional escargots de Bourgogne, Escargots served with a blue cheese sauce, Potato gratin topped with escargots and garlic cream
- Insider Tips: Request a table by the window in the early evening to enjoy the sunset over Paris while savoring your escargots, and don't be shy about asking for extra bread - the servers will happily bring more for soaking up the delicious butter sauce.
- Price: €€
- Rating: 4.6/5 (4582 reviews on Google Maps)
- Address: 3 Rue Poulbot, 75018 Paris
L'Escargot Montorgueil
A historic temple to snails where tradition meets luxury in the heart of Paris.
With its stunning Second Empire décor and over 200 years of history, L'Escargot Montorgueil stands as an institution in Paris's culinary landscape. This restaurant has been serving its namesake dish since 1832, perfecting the art of escargot preparation for nearly two centuries. Walking into this golden-hued establishment feels like stepping back in time - the ornate mirrors, red velvet banquettes, and gleaming woodwork create an atmosphere of timeless elegance. Located on the bustling rue Montorgueil, this restaurant has welcomed countless celebrities and food enthusiasts through its doors. What makes their escargots so special? It's the perfect balance of tradition and quality - they source the finest Burgundy snails and prepare them with a house recipe butter that's rich with garlic, parsley, and just the right amount of salt. Each snail arrives at your table sizzling hot in its individual dimple, ready to be extracted with the special tongs and fork provided.
- The vibe: Refined yet welcoming historical setting with an upscale atmosphere that attracts both tourists seeking authentic French cuisine and locals celebrating special occasions.
- The food: Classic French cuisine with a special focus on various escargot preparations. Their menu offers traditional dishes executed with precision and respect for French culinary heritage.
- Must-try: Escargots de Bourgogne with garlic and herb butter, Escargots in puff pastry with wild mushrooms, Escargots with Roquefort cream sauce
- Insider Tips: Ask for a table in the upstairs dining room where you'll enjoy a quieter, more intimate setting away from the tourist crowds, and don't hesitate to request extra bread to soak up every last bit of the exquisite garlic butter.
- Price: €€€
- Rating: 4.2/5 (6280 reviews on Google Maps)
- Address: 38 Rue Montorgueil, 75001 Paris
Petit-Pontoise
A Left Bank institution where perfectly executed escargots meet old-world Parisian charm.
Just steps from the Seine on the historic Left Bank, Petit-Pontoise has been serving exceptional traditional French cuisine since 1966. This beloved neighborhood bistro manages to feel both timeless and vibrant, maintaining the standards of classic French dining while avoiding any hint of stuffiness. The dining room, with its wood paneling, vintage posters, and soft lighting, creates a warm cocoon that encourages lingering over your meal. Their escargots have achieved local fame for good reason - they're prepared in a rich butter that's enhanced with shallots, garlic, and a generous amount of flat-leaf parsley, plus a secret addition of Pernod that adds a subtle anise note that works surprisingly well with the earthiness of the snails. Each escargot arrives perfectly tender, neither chewy nor soft, showcasing the kitchen's attention to proper cooking times. The owner, who still oversees the dining room most evenings, treats regular customers like family while making newcomers feel equally welcome, creating the quintessential neighborhood bistro experience that keeps people coming back year after year.
- The vibe: Cozy, authentic bistro with a neighborhood feel that attracts a mix of longtime local residents, visiting writers and artists, and in-the-know tourists seeking genuine Parisian dining.
- The food: Traditional French bistro cuisine executed with careful attention to quality ingredients and proper technique. The menu changes slightly with the seasons while maintaining beloved classics.
- Must-try: Escargots with Pernod-enhanced butter, Duck confit with garlic potatoes, Classic crème brûlée
- Insider Tips: The corner table by the window is considered the best seat in the house, but must be reserved well in advance. If you become friendly with the owner, ask about the 'carte noire' - an unofficial menu of dishes they prepare only for regular customers, including an escargot preparation with black truffle that's not listed on the regular menu.
- Price: €€
- Rating: 4.6/5 (1385 reviews on Google Maps)
- Address: 9 Rue de Pontoise, 75005 Paris
Les Fêtes Galantes
A poetic Latin Quarter bistro where escargots are prepared with artistic flair and historic recipes.
Named after the romantic 18th-century paintings depicting aristocratic garden parties, Les Fêtes Galantes brings the same sense of refined pleasure to its dining experience. This intimate bistro, hidden on a quiet Latin Quarter street, feels like a discovery even to Parisians. The interior, with its vintage chandeliers, antique mirrors, and walls lined with old books, creates a literary atmosphere that pays homage to the neighborhood's intellectual history. Their escargots stand out for their exceptional preparation method - the snails are first marinated in Cognac before being cooked in a butter infused with no fewer than seven fresh herbs. The result is a depth of flavor that goes beyond the standard garlic-parsley combination found elsewhere. The chef, who trained in Burgundy (the spiritual home of escargot cuisine), brings both technical precision and creative touches to this classic dish. With just ten tables, the service is attentive and personalized, making you feel like a guest at a private dinner party rather than a restaurant.
- The vibe: Romantic, intimate setting with a literary ambiance that attracts professors from nearby universities, couples seeking a special evening, and food lovers looking for authentic French cuisine prepared with care.
- The food: Refined traditional French cuisine with seasonal influences. The menu changes monthly but always features their signature escargots alongside carefully sourced market-fresh dishes.
- Must-try: Escargots in Cognac-herb butter, Escargots en croûte with tarragon cream, Seasonal vegetable tart topped with escargots
- Insider Tips: Visit on Thursday evenings when the owner's partner, an accomplished pianist, sometimes plays the small upright piano in the corner, creating an enchanting soundtrack for your meal. Also, the chef is happy to explain her herb blend if you ask - though she keeps the exact proportions a closely guarded secret.
- Price: €€
- Rating: 4.2/5 (210 reviews on Google Maps)
- Address: 17 Rue de l'École Polytechnique, 75005 Paris
La Maison de l'Escargot
A specialized boutique-restaurant devoted entirely to snails in all their glorious forms.
As the name suggests, La Maison de l'Escargot is entirely dedicated to celebrating the humble snail in its many culinary iterations. This unique spot in the 15th arrondissement functions as both a gourmet shop and a restaurant, making it a true paradise for escargot enthusiasts. The bright, modern space features glass counters displaying an impressive variety of ready-to-eat and take-home escargot preparations. What makes this place special is its singular focus and expertise - the owner, a third-generation escargot farmer, knows everything there is to know about these delicacies and sources all snails from his family's farm in Eastern France. The restaurant section offers a tasting menu that takes you on a journey through different escargot preparations, from the most traditional to surprisingly innovative creations. It's fascinating to discover how versatile this ingredient can be in the hands of passionate specialists. Whether you're dining in or taking some home to prepare yourself (with expert instructions provided), La Maison de l'Escargot offers an educational and delicious experience.
- The vibe: Bright, contemporary space with a specialist boutique feel that attracts curious food enthusiasts, escargot aficionados, and locals from the residential 15th arrondissement looking for something special.
- The food: Entirely focused on escargot preparations, from traditional to experimental. They offer both classic French preparations and fusion dishes that incorporate influences from other cuisines.
- Must-try: Tasting plate of six different escargot preparations, Escargot-stuffed ravioli with sage butter, Escargots prepared with curry and coconut milk
- Insider Tips: Before your meal, ask for the mini tour of their boutique section where you can learn about the different varieties of snails they use and the farming methods - the staff loves sharing their knowledge and will often offer samples of their newest creations.
- Rating: 4.5/5 (40 reviews on Google Maps)
- Address: 79 Rue Fondary, 75015 Paris
Lescargot
A modern Montmartre bistro reinventing the classic escargot with creative global influences.
Despite its straightforward name, there's nothing basic about the escargot preparations at this contemporary Montmartre bistro. Opened by a young chef who trained in both French and international kitchens, Lescargot brings a fresh, creative approach to this traditional dish while maintaining respect for the main ingredient. The restaurant space is minimalist yet inviting, with natural wood tables, exposed brick walls, and large windows that flood the room with light during the day. Their menu offers several different escargot preparations that showcase global influences - you might find them prepared with Thai basil and lemongrass or with Spanish chorizo and smoked paprika. What makes these creative interpretations successful is that they're not mere gimmicks; each variation is thoughtfully conceived to complement the natural flavor of the snails rather than mask it. The chef sources from a small cooperative of snail farmers committed to sustainable practices, ensuring that the quality of the main ingredient stands up to the innovative preparations. With its seasonal menu and contemporary approach, Lescargot offers a fresh perspective on this classic French delicacy.
- The vibe: Modern, relaxed bistro with an artistic energy that reflects its Montmartre location. Popular with younger Parisians, creative professionals, and adventurous eaters looking for something beyond traditional French cuisine.
- The food: Contemporary French cuisine with global influences, focusing on seasonal ingredients and creative preparations. The menu changes frequently based on market availability and the chef's inspiration.
- Must-try: Escargots with Thai basil, lemongrass and coconut, Escargot risotto with parmesan and preserved lemon, Escargots with chorizo, smoked paprika and sherry vinegar
- Insider Tips: The chef offers an occasional 'snail workshop' where you can learn to prepare escargots in different styles - these intimate classes are announced only on their Instagram page and fill up quickly, so follow them to get notified. During your meal, don't hesitate to ask questions about the preparations; the staff is passionate about educating diners on their innovative approach.
- Rating: 4.5/5 (51 reviews on Google Maps)
- Address: 6 Rue Sainte-Isaure, 75018 Paris
L'escargot Bar
A trendy canal-side spot reimagining escargots as casual, approachable tapas in a lively setting.
Bringing escargots firmly into the 21st century, L'escargot Bar has transformed this traditionally formal dish into something casual, shareable, and undeniably fun. Located along the trendy Canal de l'Ourcq in the increasingly hip 19th arrondissement, this modern bar-restaurant features an industrial-chic interior with colorful accents and a sprawling terrace that's packed during warmer months. Their concept is brilliantly simple: escargots prepared in various styles, served as tapas meant for sharing. The menu typically features 8-10 different preparations, from classic garlic-parsley butter to more adventurous options like escargots with blue cheese or spicy harissa. What makes the experience special is the relaxed, convivial atmosphere - the owners have successfully removed any intimidation factor from eating escargots, making them accessible to younger diners and those new to this traditional delicacy. The bar program complements the food perfectly, with natural wines, craft beers, and creative cocktails that pair surprisingly well with the different escargot preparations. It's a thoroughly modern Parisian experience that shows how traditional cuisine can evolve while maintaining its essential character.
- The vibe: Buzzing, youthful atmosphere with a casual energy that attracts a diverse crowd of trendy locals, curious tourists, and food-loving millennials. The terrace becomes one of the neighborhood's liveliest spots during summer evenings.
- The food: Creative small plates centered around different escargot preparations, designed for sharing. The menu offers both traditional and innovative flavor combinations in an approachable tapas format.
- Must-try: Classic mini-escargots with garlic butter (served by the half-dozen), Escargot sliders with herb mayo, Escargot skewers with bacon and sage
- Insider Tips: Every Thursday evening features a 'snail happy hour' from 6-8pm with special pricing on select escargot tapas and paired drinks. For the best experience, gather a group of 4-6 friends and order the 'Tour des Escargots' - a tasting platter with all their current preparations that isn't listed on the regular menu but is available if you ask.
- Price: €€
- Rating: 4.6/5 (675 reviews on Google Maps)
- Address: 50 Rue de la Villette, 75019 Paris
About Kollection
Kollection prides itself on offering genuine, locally endorsed recommendations compiled by true Parisians. With a thorough evaluation process that combines insights from over 16,000 Parisian establishments, renowned critics, and real customer reviews, our guide to escargot dining is second to none. Our approach is free of paid placements, ensuring that your culinary adventure remains authentic:
FAQ
More articles to explore
Discover more curated restaurants and food experiences in Paris that match your interests.