There is no shortage of picturesque dining options in the city of love, so choosing a select few of our favourite romantic restaurants was the best kind of a challenge (tough times over here, we know). From extravagant palace-like ballrooms to cozy candlelit bistros, these restaurants are all truly special.
6 Rue Jean du Bellay, 75004 Paris
Cafe St Regis is a can't miss, classic spot on Île Saint-Louis. With a perfect corner space right near the bridge behind Notre Dame, you'd think this lively bistro was a tourist trap. However it's known locally as the hip Le Saint Régis where regulars come for both breakfast pastries and evening oyster platters. The seductive mood is set from the moment you walk through the vintage interior reminiscent of a cozy 1920s cafe decked out with white ceramic-tiled floors, antique brass and mirror signage and even staff in crisp black and white uniforms.
[caption id="attachment_1271" align="alignnone" width="300"]
As seen in Woody Allen's Midnight in Paris, 2011[/caption]
One of our personal favourites, this antique bistro in Le Marais is a typically authentic Parisian spot where you can sip Cab Sauv while sharing sumptuous plates of decadent whole duck terrine or creme brûlée. The welcoming staff and old-fashioned French ambiance gives this place a relaxing vibe, really letting the quality of the food shine. Other great shareables include the escargot de Bourgogne and bone marrow with warm toast.
Bofinger
5-7 rue de la Bastille, 5004 Paris
Bofinger provides the traditional French brasserie experience that you'd imagine having in an 1980s Bond movie. Rich history oozes from every corner of this place: the iconic stained-glass skylight, polished brass railings, Art Deco lamps and plush banquettes. The oysters are an excellent way to indulge a loved one, or choose their classic choucroute. This staple of Bofinger is a massive dish consisting of a variety of Alsatian meats and sauerkraut, including smoked sausage, cured ham knuckles, and boiled pork belly (talk about one dish, two forks!). The Bofinger choucroute has been perfected (and never altered) since its 17-year existence on the menu!
Tour Maine Montparnasse, 33 Avenue du Maine, 75015 Paris
Talk about a literally elevated dining experience! While some say the view from Le Jules Verne (atop the Eiffel Tower) is unmatched, it can't compete with the sights atop the highest building in Paris, the Montparnasse Tower. The 70s-mod vibe of Le Ciel de Paris gives this romantic destination a groovy feel with circular mirrors and patterns along the ceiling. As well, floor to ceiling windows throughout the dining room give every seat a panoramic view. Guests will be swept off their feet not only by the fabulous decor, but with menu hits like decadent raviolis in a fondu au comté (hard cow's milk cheese infused with white white). For a real splurge, there's a “Grand Ecran” menu that includes “Dîner au Champagne Canard-Duchêne brut Rosé" (1 bottle of champagne per person!) so be sure you've got your ride home planned in advance.
Ferdi
32 Rue du Mont Thabor, 75001 Paris
Ferdi is a cozy bar-resto that's a favourite date-night spot for many celebs visiting Paris, including Kim and Kanye, sisters Bella and Gigi Hadid, as well as Kendall Jenner and the Biebs back in 2014 (his Selena years - scandal!). Though their menu offers gourmet Spanish and French gourmet items like an Ibérico ham-based charcuterie plate or filets of Norwegian smoked salmon, favourite items like their renown "Le Mac Ferdi" cheeseburger or guacamole and chips make this trendy spot surprisingly moderate in price. Here's where you go to see and be seen!
Le Dôme du Marais
53 B rue des Francs Bourgeois, 75004 Paris
This sophisticated spot is known not only for its incredible food, but Le Dôme is an architectural gem of Le Marais. Romance is in the air under the massive neoclassical metal and glass skylight that illuminates an entire wing of the restaurant that was originally commissioned under the reign of Louis XIII to sit atop the Crédit Municipal de Paris' original auction house. In this historic setting, the food differs from traditional French fare with an Asian twist. Dishes including sea bream tartare with lime and veal liver and carrot puree with bacon and caramelized sherry.
