There are things you simply must do in Paris, and an evening in a genuine classic brasserie is one of them. Not for nostalgia, but for the experience. High ceilings, mirrored walls, waiters in black-and-white uniforms, a menu that has proven its worth over decades. I'd reserve at least one evening for one of the places below. Preferably more.
Bofinger: A Classic Brasserie in Paris for a Special Night Out
Bofinger is the go-to brasserie for a night with a destination. I was there for Christmas, and the fruits de mer on the table immediately showed why this place has lasted so long. The interior is everything you'd expect: art-nouveau, mirrors, and that beautiful glass dome over the ground floor. Make sure you sit downstairs, upstairs is another restaurant. Book ahead, especially for weekends or special occasions. Bofinger is in the Marais, so combine it with a night in the area. I previously wrote about the best boutique hotels in the Marais.
Le Balzar: More About Atmosphere, Less About Spectacle
Le Balzar has existed since 1886 and is located near the Sorbonne, which explains the atmosphere: intellectual, informal, not too stiff. This is the brasserie that has embraced the passage of time well. I had an avocado tartare with crab here that I still use as a benchmark, and the onion soup is just as it should be in Paris. For lunch, there's a 2-course menu for 26 euros, affordable at this level. Le Balzar is within walking distance of Quartier Latin. Want to know what else to do there? I wrote an entire article about it: what to do in Quartier Latin.
Le Procope: A Chocolate Cake and Three Centuries of History
Le Procope opened in 1686 and is the oldest café in Paris. Voltaire, Rousseau, and Diderot visited here. The walls strive to convey that feeling, and they succeed. We came not for dinner but for the Salon Café; open every day from three to six. For 17.50 euros, you choose a dessert and a delightful coffee or tea. We had a chocolate cake that we of course deserved. The back of the restaurant faces a small street with outdoor tables, ideal if you want to pause between shopping.
La Coupole is My Favorite, Despite What People Say
La Coupole near Montparnasse is known as touristy, and that's somewhat true, but I've never been bothered by it. It's big, which makes it accessible: you can always find a place, any time of day, without a reservation if needed. The food is good, the atmosphere is lively, and it's close to a metro station. For us, it has become a bit of a tradition, and that says it all. You can reserve online, but walking in spontaneously also works.
Lipp: Start with an Aperitif at Les Deux Magots
Lipp is best experienced with the ritual: start with an aperitif on the terrace of Les Deux Magots, directly across. The brasserie itself is small and the tables are close together (your table needs to be pulled forward to get out), giving the setting a somewhat theatrical ambiance. But it's an experience, and that's exactly why you go.
Breakfast in Paris? I've rounded up 10 of my favorite breakfast spots in Paris, from classic cafés to great coffee and pancakes. Check out my favorite breakfast spots in Paris.
Five Classic Brasseries in Paris: At Least One Evening is a Must
Bofinger for seafood under a glass dome. Le Balzar for those who want classic without stiffness. Le Procope for a chocolate cake and three centuries of history. La Coupole for those who like big, accessible, and tasty. Lipp for the ambiance and the aperitif beforehand. A classic brasserie in Paris ensures a good evening. Plan it in.
Looking for More Great Dining Tips in Paris?
You'll find all my favorite hotspots in my Google Maps map. From restaurants and wine bars to hotels and addresses I've personally selected. So you only need to choose where to go first.
Check out the Mapped by Carole map of Paris
Frequently Asked Questions About Classic Brasseries in Paris
Do you need to reserve at a classic brasserie in Paris?
Reserving at Bofinger and Le Balzar is wise, especially on weekends. La Coupole is large enough for spontaneous visits. Lipp and Le Procope are in between; call ahead or book online.
What's the difference between a brasserie and a bistro in Paris?
A brasserie is larger, has longer opening hours, and usually serves all day. A bistro is smaller, more informal, and often has a smaller menu. The classic brasserie in Paris always features the classics like French onion soup or escargots on the menu.
