Perched on the 15th and 16th floors of the SO/ Paris hotel, Bonnie delivers one of the most spectacular settings in the capital – a sweeping vista that captures the Seine, Ile Saint-Louis, and eastern Paris from a perfectly positioned vantage point. The restaurant's design is as impressive as its location, with floor-to-ceiling windows that slide completely open during warm weather, effectively turning the entire space into a covered terrace. Unlike many hotel rooftops that play it safe with decor, Bonnie embraces bold contemporary design with jewel-toned velvet seating, brass accents, and artistic lighting that creates a glow reminiscent of Paris's golden hour all evening long. What elevates Bonnie beyond just another pretty rooftop is its serious approach to cuisine – this is a place where the culinary ambition matches the view. The cocktail program deserves special mention, with creations that incorporate house-made ingredients and unexpected techniques that provide a perfect accompaniment to watching the boats glide by on the Seine below.

Tucked away in the historic Latin Quarter, Dar Mima feels like a delightful discovery even for longtime Parisians. This intimate rooftop restaurant transports you straight to Marrakech through both its authentic flavors and thoughtful design. Colorful zellige tiles, intricately patterned textiles, and scattered poufs create a warm, convivial atmosphere that feels worlds away from typical Parisian dining. The modest-sized terrace offers surprisingly impressive views of Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Left Bank rooftops, particularly magical at dusk when the sky turns pink and the city lights begin to twinkle. What truly sets Dar Mima apart is how genuine the experience feels – family recipes passed down through generations, spices imported directly from Moroccan markets, and hospitality that makes you feel like you're dining in someone's home rather than at a restaurant.

Crowning the luxurious Cheval Blanc Paris, Le Tout-Paris delivers on its ambitious name ("All of Paris") by offering what might be the most spectacular panorama in the city. This sleek, retro-inspired rooftop brasserie wraps around the top floor of the hotel, providing a 360-degree viewing experience that captures Paris's major monuments and the sinuous path of the Seine below. The striking design by Peter Marino blends Art Deco influences with bold contemporary touches – think curved red banquettes, gleaming brass accents, and an abundance of mirrors strategically placed to multiply the views. Unlike many rooftops that rest on their locational laurels, Le Tout-Paris maintains a genuine commitment to culinary excellence, serving refined brasserie classics that stand up to the setting's grandeur.

While many Parisian rooftops compete for the most glamorous setting, Mama Shelter in the 20th arrondissement takes a refreshingly different approach. This colorful, casual rooftop captures the creative spirit of eastern Paris, bringing together a diverse crowd in a setting that feels like a friend's particularly cool terrace party. Multicolored chairs, string lights, ping pong tables, and oversized loungers create a jubilant atmosphere that's a welcome contrast to the stuffier rooftops of western Paris. The views here aren't about ticking off monument sightings, but rather appreciating the authentic Parisian roofscape stretching toward Père Lachaise cemetery and beyond. What makes this rooftop particularly special is its genuine neighborhood feel – a mix of hotel guests and locals who return regularly for the laid-back vibe as much as for the reasonably priced drinks and satisfying food. When Paris weather cooperates, there are few more enjoyable places to spend a lazy afternoon that stretches into evening.

Crowning the iconic Printemps department store, Perruche (meaning "parakeet") soars high above the 9th arrondissement, offering what might be the most complete panorama of Paris available from any restaurant. This expansive 500 square meter terrace feels like discovering a secret garden in the sky, with lush vegetation, terracotta planters, and natural wooden furnishings creating a Mediterranean atmosphere far removed from the shopping floors below. What distinguishes Perruche from other department store rooftops is its genuine commitment to quality dining rather than merely banking on the view. The space cleverly balances its grandeur with intimate corners and varied seating arrangements, making it suitable for everything from romantic dinners to casual drinks. As the sun sets and the golden light washes over Haussmannian rooftops, with the Eiffel Tower and Sacré-Cœur visible from opposite sides, you'll understand why securing a reservation here remains one of Paris's more competitive dining achievements.