Paris is a dream destination for those of us who are true romantics at heart, and what’s more symbolic of the City of Love than the Eiffel Tower? Whether it’s your first time or your hundredth, no trip to Paris is complete without visiting the Eiffel Tower.
Located in the western portion of Paris in the 7th arrondissement, the Eiffel Tower is easily the city’s busiest attraction, drawing nearly 7 million visitors annually. But as with so many popular monuments around the world, the surrounding area can be tricky to navigate when you’re on the hunt for a good meal.
While tourist traps and mediocre cafés abound near the Eiffel Tower, after living here, I’ve found there’s an impressive selection of top-notch eateries — you just have to know where to look. To make things easier for you, I’ve rounded up my favorite romantic spots you should try before or after your tower visit.
So here it is — my insider’s guide to where to eat near the Eiffel Tower for couples.
1. The picture-perfect brunch at Carette
A veritable Parisian institution, Carette is famous for their pastries, cakes, macarons, and of course, their delightful sweet and savory brunch fare. Established in 1927, this chic tea house now has three locations around Paris, but, in my opinion, the view at the Trocadero location makes it the best for couples by a long shot.
Situated on the Place de Trocadero facing the Iron Lady herself, Carette’s expansive terrace offers breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower. It’s hard to go wrong with any dish on the menu, but if you have to choose just one thing – head pastry chef Frederic Tissier makes an unforgettable Saint-Honoré cake.
Local tip: Be sure to reserve a table in advance for weekend mornings, this place is popular for a reason.
2. A taste of the Sud-Ouest at la Fontaine de Mars
The beautiful Fontaine de Mars restaurant offers authentic cuisine from Southwest France in a classic Parisian brasserie setting.
Established in 1908, just a stone’s throw from the Eiffel Tower, la Fontaine de Mars is one of the oldest authentic brasseries in the city. The menu is just as timeless as the place itself and features hearty, traditional dishes from the Southwest with a Parisian flair. The duck confit, cassoulet, and foie gras are all tried-and-true favorites, and their extensive wine list is sure to please.
3. A classic French meal at Café Constant
This place is truly a hidden gem, and it’s right in the middle of the city’s most touristic area! Just a quick hop from the Eiffel Tower itself, Café Constant is tucked away on Rue Saint-Dominique. So much so that you’d walk right by if you didn’t know what to look out for.
This little café offers classic French fare and is open all day long (a rare find in the area, believe me). This is a great spot to grab breakfast and coffee before a day of sightseeing or to unwind over a good meal after a day in Paris. Head upstairs to their cozy dining room and tuck into a romantic meal with your chéri(e).
4. A crêpe at Crépuscule
There’s hardly a snack more classically French than a delicious warm crêpe. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, Crépuscule has you covered.
Situated a short walk from the Iron Lady, Crépuscule is a traditional Breton restaurant that specializes in — you guessed it — crêpes. You can dine in or take your crêpes to go and enjoy them on a romantic walk in front of the Eiffel Tower.
5. The views from Les Ombres
Sun setting behind the Eiffel Tower; lovely vow renewal at Les Ombres Restaurant in Paris. Congrats, Sam & Patrick! pic.twitter.com/ikuy19PpUb
— Lindsey Kent (@pictoursparis) December 2, 2013
It’s hard to find a great restaurant for couples that is closer to the Eiffel Tower than Les Ombres. On top of the Quai Branly Museum along the Seine riverbanks, Les Ombres is an upscale French restaurant with stunning vistas of the Eiffel Tower. This is one place that will be sure to dazzle your date, no matter how many times they’ve been to Paris.
The menu features French classics, updated with a modern touch. Think foie gras with mango-pineapple compote or slow-cooked lamb with cranberries. And to top it all off, the glass-paned dome roof provides a stunning view of the tower — it’s so close it’s like you could reach out and touch it!
The best places to eat near the Eiffel Tower
In case you thought the neighborhood surrounding the Eiffel Tower was exclusively home to tourist traps or fast food chains, now you know better! As you now know, there are plenty of great dining options for couples near the Eiffel Tower. You just have to know where to look. These really are some of the best restaurants for couples near the Eiffel Tower.
I’d advise you to plan as many of your meals in advance as you can while in Paris, it will make your trip to the City of Love much less stressful, and way more romantic — delicious!
Need more romance with this pretty Paris landmark? See the Eiffel Tower lit up at night!
