Features > Best Of Travel > Five Unmissable Parisian Restaurants
Every Parisian neighborhood, if not every Parisian street, has its own brasserie – the warm, bubbling croque monsieurs (ham and cheese open-faced sandwiches) are consistently tempting! But sometimes the adventurous traveler goes in search of something more – seeking a truly special dining experience with food of a more uncommon sort, or atmosphere beyond a simple Parisian street. Here are five places to have an unforgettable meal that doesn't require breaking the bank.
1) Le Fille de L'O, off Quai St. Michel
It should be touristy – a restaurant on a boat overlooking Notre Dame cathedral, but somehow the clientele remains predominantly French, and the quality consistently local. Fresh fish – the “fantasie de saumon appetizer in particular is highly recommended” – and exciting side dishes (ie, black rice) abound here, but nothing makes this restaurant as special as the view: the boat is an oasis of calm overlooking the cathedral and river. Best of all, it's not particularly expensive, either.
2) La Buvette des Marionettes, the Luxembourg Gardens
This inexpensive mostly outdoor cafe benefits from some of the best scenery in all Paris – the elegantly colorful Luxembourg Gardens. But the vistas are rivaled by the crepes – the delicious “Simple” – with ham and egg or cheese- and decadent “Complete” – all three! -are staples of a good Parisian diet. Order a bottle of rose and spend the day in this idyllic spot.
3) Le Basilic, Rue des Abbesses
This restaurant, located at the corner of Rue Lepic and Rue des Abbesses in Montmartre, puts the neighborhood's tourist traps to shame. Decorated in the style of an old rural inn, with hearty food to match (and a specialty in seafood), Le Basilic isn't as cheap as its country counterparts, but it's well worth the price.
4) A Picnic, the Seine
For an inexpensive option worth ten times its price, stop at the traiteur (takeout place) on Rue Buci in the 6th arrondissement and purchase one of their succulent roast chickens. Abandon restaurants altogether and head down to the riverbank for a finger-licking, bone-gnawing picnic.
5) Allard, Rue des St. Andre des Arts
Extraordinary traditional French cooking in the picturesque 6th arrondissement – Allard may not be cheap, but it is decidedly special. The prix-fixe menus for lunch or dinner manage things somewhat, and with a succulent array of meats, vegetables, and desserts to choose from, this is a place for a lengthy and relaxed family meal.
By Tara Isabella Burton
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