The 10 most unique and unusual restaurants in Paris – A guide
Whenever I go to Paris, I look for fun and different places to eat. If you’re like me, you want to find cool restaurants that aren’t just the usual spots. But it can be hard to know where to look with so many choices.
Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. I’ve found some of the most unusual and exciting restaurants in Paris.
This guide is for anyone who loves trying new and unique places. I’m excited to share my top picks with you..
1. Le Jules Verne
Le Jules Verne is a very special restaurant in Paris. It’s not just any café or bistro; it’s located on the Eiffel Tower! Dining here means you get amazing views of Paris from above. The restaurant is in the 7th arrondissement, right on the Eiffel Tower’s second floor. That alone makes it a unique place to eat.
The food here is top-notch because of the famous chef, Frédéric Anton. The menu has delicious French dishes. You can try their famous foie gras or the tasty lobster. For dessert, their chocolate soufflé is a must! Dining at Le Jules Verne is a real treat, perfect for a special occasion.
- Address: Avenue Gustave Eiffel, 75007 Paris, France
- Open hours: 12 PM – 1:30 PM and 7 PM – 9:30 PM
- Website: Le Jules Verne
- Public Transport: Bir-Hakeim (Line 6), Trocadéro (Lines 6 and 9)
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2. Le Train Bleu
Le Train Bleu in Paris is a restaurant unlike any other. Located in the Gare de Lyon, this dining spot is famous for its stunning Belle Époque decor, making you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The grand chandeliers, detailed frescoes, and gilded woodwork create a luxurious atmosphere that’s hard to find elsewhere. This isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a full-on experience in Paris.
The menu at Le Train Bleu offers a variety of classic French dishes. Some of the standout items include the roasted leg of lamb carved right at your table and the pike quenelles served with a rich Newburg sauce. If you’re looking for recommendations, try the Bresse poultry with tarragon cream and the famous rum baba for dessert. Both dishes showcase the high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques that make Le Train Bleu special.
Here are the details you need if you plan to visit:
- Address: Place Louis Armand, 75012 Paris
- Open hours: Lunch: 11:15 am to 2:30 pm, Dinner: 7 pm to 10:30 pm, Lounge Bar: 7:30 am to 10:30 pm
- Website: Le Train Bleu
- Public Transport: Gare de Lyon (Metro Lines 1 and 14, RER A and D)
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3. Dans le Noir?
Dans le Noir in Paris is one of the most unique dining experiences you’ll find in the city. Unlike typical Parisian bistros or trendy Michelin-starred spots, Dans le Noir offers a meal in complete darkness. This unusual restaurant is located in the heart of Paris, near the Seine and the lively Marais district. Dining here means your senses of taste, smell, and touch are heightened, providing a memorable and immersive experience. The staff, who are visually impaired, guide you through the meal, adding a special touch to the evening.
The menu at Dans le Noir is a surprise, crafted to challenge your palate with a mix of flavors and textures. While you won’t know exactly what you’re eating until the end, previous menus have included dishes like sea bass, veal, and delicious French pastries. I’d recommend trying their tasting menu for the full experience. Each dish is carefully prepared to delight and surprise, ensuring a fun and adventurous meal in one of the most unusual restaurants in Paris.
- Address: 51 Rue Quincampoix, 75004 Paris
- Open hours: Monday to Sunday, 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM
- Website: Dans le Noir
- Public Transport: Closest metro stations are Châtelet – Les Halles (Lines 1, 4, 7, 11, 14) and Rambuteau (Line 11)
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4. La Recyclerie
La Recyclerie in Paris is one of the city’s most unique spots. Located in a former train station, this eco-friendly restaurant focuses on sustainability and community. It has a terrace overlooking the old railway tracks, now lush with greenery. The menu features seasonal, homemade dishes. They offer a variety of options, including vegetarian and vegan meals, making it a great spot for everyone. One of my favorite things to order is the brunch, available on weekends, which includes fresh veggies from their garden, scrambled eggs, and delicious pastries.
This place isn’t just about food. They also host workshops on DIY projects and urban farming. You can even visit their on-site farm, complete with chickens and a composting area. La Recyclerie is a perfect blend of good food and positive environmental impact, making it a must-visit in Paris.
- Address: 83 Boulevard Ornano, 75018 Paris
- Open hours: Mon-Thu 8:00-00:00, Fri-Sat 12:00-02:00, Sun 11:00-22:00
- Website: La Recyclerie
- Public Transport: Metro line 4, Porte de Clignancourt station
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5. Sur Un Arbre Perché
Sur Un Arbre Perché in Paris is a fun and different place to eat. What makes it special is that you can sit on swings while you dine! It’s near the Opera and the Bourse, right in the heart of the city. This spot is great if you want to try something new while exploring Paris.
The menu has lots of tasty options. For starters, you can have crispy chicken, goat cheese makis, or pea soup with coconut milk. Main dishes include Caesar salad, saffron risotto, and duck breast with cherry sauce. For dessert, try the chocolate cake or rhubarb crumble.
Here are some details for your visit:
- Address: 1, rue du 4 Septembre, 75002 Paris
- Open hours: Monday to Friday: 12:00-14:30 / 19:30-00:00; Saturday: 19:15-00:00
- Website: Sur Un Arbre Perché
- Public Transport: Metro Bourse (Line 3)
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6. Derrière
Derrière is one of Paris’s most unique restaurants, hidden away in the chic Le Marais district. It’s like stepping into a quirky, stylish home, complete with a ping-pong table, eclectic furniture, and even a bed you can dine on upstairs. This spot feels more like a friend’s house than a restaurant, which makes the whole dining experience fun and relaxed.
The menu at Derrière offers a mix of classic French and contemporary dishes. Some favorites include the tender veal with mashed potatoes, and the delicious cod with herbs. They also have a great brunch that features a variety of fresh, tasty options. If you’re a fan of fine dining with a twist, you should definitely try their risotto and steak frites. The ambiance, combined with the creative dishes, makes Derrière a must-visit when you’re looking for something different in the City of Light.
- Address: 69 Rue des Gravilliers, 75003 Paris, France
- Open hours: Monday-Saturday: 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM, 8:00 PM – 11:30 PM; Sunday: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM, 8:00 PM – 11:30 PM
- Website: Derrière Restaurant
- Public Transport: Closest metro stations are Arts et Métiers (Lines 3 and 11) and Réaumur-Sébastopol (Lines 3 and 4)
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7. O’Château
O’Château in Paris is one of my favorite restaurants to try because it offers a truly unique dining experience. Located near the Louvre, this spot in Paris combines delicious food with amazing wine. The restaurant serves traditional French cuisine, but what sets it apart is its extensive wine selection. They have a cozy wine bar where you can taste different wines from all over France. The staff go out of their way to help you choose the perfect wine to go with your meal. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy some of the best food in Paris.
The menu at O’Château is full of classic French dishes. You can start with fresh oysters or a creamy truffle soup. For the main course, try the duck breast or the filet mignon. If you love cheese, their cheese platter is a must. And don’t forget to pair your meal with a glass of their finest blanc. If you’re looking for something sweet, the crème brûlée is fantastic. This restaurant located near many Paris attractions is a perfect spot for a memorable dinner.
- Address: 68 Rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau, 75001 Paris, France
- Open hours: Monday to Saturday: 4 PM – 10 PM, Closed on Sundays
- Website: O’Château
- Public Transport: Louvre-Rivoli (Line 1), Les Halles (Line 4)
8. L’Avant Comptoir
L’Avant Comptoir in Paris is a unique spot that really stands out among the city’s many restaurants. This cozy gem in the 6th arrondissement is all about small plates and big flavors, offering a fresh take on the classic French bistro experience. Instead of pizza, you’ll find delicious bites like croquettes, tartines, and amazing charcuterie. It’s perfect for anyone who loves French food and wants to try something a bit different.
When you visit L’Avant Comptoir, you have to try their famous foie gras waffle. It’s a unique blend of flavors you won’t forget. The atmosphere is casual and bustling, with friendly waiters always ready to help. The restaurant is within walking distance of the Marché des Enfants, making it a great stop while exploring. Plus, it’s close to Pigalle and the Canal Saint-Martin, so it’s easy to fit into your day around Paris. If you trust Condé Nast’s recommendations for the best places to eat, this is a must-visit. Be sure to add L’Avant Comptoir to your list of Paris’s coolest spots!
- Address: 3 Carrefour de l’Odéon, 75006 Paris, France
- Open hours: 12 PM – 11 PM daily
- Website: avant-comptoir
- Public Transport: Odéon Metro Station (Lines 4 and 10)
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9. Les Ombres
Les Ombres is one of those Paris restaurants that really stands out. It’s perched on the rooftop of the Quai Branly Museum, offering an unbeatable view of the Eiffel Tower. This isn’t just any dining experience; it’s a feast for your eyes and taste buds. Imagine enjoying a delicious meal while the iconic Eiffel Tower lights up right in front of you. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’re in the heart of Paris. The food here is amazing too. Les Ombres serves up French cuisine with a modern twist, featuring dishes like foie gras, lobster, and lamb. Every plate looks like a piece of art, and it tastes just as good as it looks.
When you visit, start with the foie gras – it’s smooth and rich. For the main course, I’d go for the lamb. It’s cooked just right and full of flavor. And don’t even get me started on dessert. The chocolate fondant is to die for. Plus, they have a fantastic wine list with some of the best French wines. Dining at Les Ombres feels like such a treat, thanks to the incredible view and top-notch service. If you’re looking for a unique dining experience in Paris, this is the place to be.
- Address: 27 Quai Branly, 75007 Paris, France
- Open hours: Monday to Sunday, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM, 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Website: Les Ombres
- Public Transport: Closest metro stations are Alma-Marceau (Line 9) and Iéna (Line 9)
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10. Bustronome
Bustronome is one of the most unique dining experiences in Paris. Imagine enjoying a gourmet meal while cruising through the city, taking in sights like the Eiffel Tower and the Champs-Élysées from big panoramic windows. It’s like a fancy dinner and a sightseeing tour rolled into one. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like it in Paris.
The menu at Bustronome is a delicious mix of French classics and modern dishes. Starters might include rich foie gras or a velvety soup. For the main course, you can choose from options like tender beef or fresh fish. And don’t even get me started on the desserts – the chocolate cake is to die for. If you’re looking for a dining experience that’s a bit out of the ordinary, this is it. Plus, it’s a nice change from the usual cafés and diners around the city.
- Address: 2 Avenue Kléber, 75116 Paris
- Open hours: Daily, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM, 7:45 PM – 10:00 PM
- Website: Bustronome
- Public Transport: Charles de Gaulle-Étoile (Lines 1, 2, 6), Kléber (Line 6)
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