2015 was a good year for Paris’ restaurant scene. From the brasserie that changed the landscape of a previously unfavoured area, to the cafe brought to you by an iconic Parisian bookstore, there was something for everyone. To celebrate the end of the year, here’s my roundup of the best Paris had to offer in 2015 – some are brand new while others are stand-outs that deserve a shout-out. Bonne année, et surtout, bon appétit!
NEW
Photo courtesy of Brasserie Barbès
I’m kicking off with Brasserie Barbès because it’s been a game-changer in what was once considered a seedy part of the 18ème (remember when Fox News untruthfully labelled the area a “no-go zone” this past January?). Well, this place proves that it’s become the place to be. Located across the street from Barbès-Rochechouart metro station and Louxor Cinema, this four-floor establishment is hard to miss. With a stark white facade, this imposing structure continues to impress once inside where you’ll find a large dining room, a dance floor, an upper-level terrace with an open sunroof, along with a rooftop patio. I kept coming back for mojitos under the sun this summer and for their typical brasserie fare with a re-imagined twist.
Bones has been a local favourite ever since Australian-born chef James Henry opened it in 2013, so it was understandable when fans were disappointed at the news that the culinary heartthrob was leaving the establishment. However, Bones isn’t closing, but it is in the midst of a reboot. As of just a few days ago, Bones is now Jones. It will officially open after the holidays but here’s what we already know: Gone is the four-course menu at €55. Jones will serve coffee and lunch during the day, along with small, tapas style dishes in the evening.
Photo courtesy of Hero
Korean fried chicken made a comeback this year when Hero set up shop in the second arrondissement on rue Saint-Denis. With an all-black facade that leads to a dimly-lit dining hall, the food is decently priced (€2-€15) and consists of crispy fried chicken slathered with spicy sauce, pork buns, white rice, kimchi, and a selection of Korean snacks.
Faggio, the newest Italian pizzeria to hit Paris, opened its doors this summer in the 9ème. While on my way to test the restaurant out for the first time, I was quite worried as I had just returned from a month-long trip to Italy. The verdict? I was not disappointed and I’ve been back several times since! From welcoming service from the owner every time I visit (he remembers patrons that live in the neighbourhood), to generous servings that will curb even the biggest glutton’s hunger, Faggio’s pizza is definitely a must-try. My go-to is the Capriccio (ricotta, bresaola, lemon olive oil, and arugula).
Photo courtesy of Big Mamma / by Renaud Cambuzat
Brought to you by the same people behind Ober Mamma, East Mamma made its debut into the hip 11ème’s foodie scene this spring – and it’s been quite the hit. This Italian restaurant has become known for its impressive use of fresh ingredients straight from Italy, all without pretension or fuss. The menu changes seasonally, but you can’t go wrong with the pizza, pasta, or classic charcuterie platters.
What’s better than digging into a good book while sipping on a coffee on a Parisian terrace? Shakespeare and Company recently made this a reality when it launched its very first literary cafe. Situated next door to the legendary bookstore, the cafe has teamed up with Bob’s Bakeshop to offer everything from freshly brewed coffee to gluten-free snacks.
NOTABLE
Photo courtesy of Buvette
Buvette made the list for being a favourite among those who reside – and party – in the SoPi area (South Pigalle). Brunch is the star here, whether you’re craving a croissant, or want a full breakfast of eggs, bacon, smoked salmon, and waffles. Arrive early in the evening if you’re hoping to snag one of their coveted tables or enjoy a bottle of wine with your meal at the bar.
Celebrating its two-year anniversary next month, Mandoobar’s Korean cuisine will entice you with its minimalist setup and menu. Nestled on a small street in the 8ème, go for the food, stay for the experience. Patrons sit around the bar, which doubles as the kitchen (there are no tables here, just about a dozen bar stools), while marveling at the head chef’s creations. The menu consists of eight menu items: beef, vegetable, and kimchi dumplings, steak and tuna tartare (order both!), rice, soup, and salad. Pair your meal with a Korean beer or tea.
Photo courtesy of Frenchie To Go / by Virginie Garnier
From the makers of the reputed Frenchie restaurant, Frenchie To Go is their daytime joint. Serving up breakfast and lunch, you can either take your food to go (hence the name!) or snag one of their limited seating spots and savour their breakfast menu – like the bacon, egg, and English muffin sandwich (picture eating a refined egg McMuffin).
American-style BBQ is definitely hard to find in Europe when you’re craving it. Thanks to Flesh, that’s no longer a problem. Located in the heart of Pigalle, they’ve been serving up beef short ribs, black Angus beef, pulled pork, and garlic fries since 2014. Pair your meat selection with their “Flesh” cocktail, a gin-based concoction with lemon and agave syrup. Be sure to make a reservation – this place is always a full!
Photo courtesy of Big Fernand
Big Fernand has been my favourite hamburger joint in Paris ever since I sunk my teeth into one of their juicy burgers in 2013. I’m not the only fan. The eatery has quickly expanded throughout France, London, and Hong Kong over the years. I order Le Bartholomé, which comes with bacon, raclette cheese, fresh herbs, and caramelized onions, paired with their signature fernandines French fries.
Did your favourite restaurant make the list? What would you add to this Paris roundup?
I’m looking to visit Paris soon, these definitely provide me with a great selection of places to try! 🙂
Awesome! Let me know if you visit them 🙂
I’ve never been to Paris, but all of these options look delightful 🙂 Great choices!
Thank you! Hopefully you’ll make it out here soon 🙂
Yum!! This food looks incredible!! I’ve never been to Paris before. Are all these places fairly close to each other?
Thank you! Yes, the majority of these restaurants are located on the Right Bank (with the exception of Shakespeare and Company Cafe) 🙂
My BIL lives right outside Paris. I’ll have to remember these spots if we get to visit him soon.
Nice! You definitely should 🙂
Thanks for your restaurants guide! I’m an Italian Cousine lover, so I would like to go to Faggio 🙂 All photos are so yummy 🙂
Thanks! You will definitely approve of Faggio 🙂
It is so exciting to see more Korean food pop up around the world! I live in the US and Korean food is becoming so popular here and some of the flavors still are a very underground movement!
Agreed! Both restaurants mentioned above are so different in style yet equally delicious 🙂
OMG, Shakespeare & Co. has its own restaurant now?!?! I used to live in Le Vésinet, and I miss France SO much. I even had the chance to take a writing course at Shakespeare & Co., in addition to introducing it to many of my expat friends. My husband & I are tentatively planning a trip to visit France later this year. We’ll have to check out some of these recommendations! When I lived in France, I was an au pair the first year, and a teaching assistant the second year, so I rarely went out to eat on my tiny income. 🙂 It will be fun to splurge a bit with my spouse, who has never been to France, or anywhere in Europe, for that matter.
Yes!! It’s such a lovely cafe. I went on a fairly warm winter day and there were people sitting on their outdoor terrace 🙂 The writing course sounds great – I think I’ll check it out! Have a wonderful trip – sounds like it will be quite nostalgic for you 🙂 Hopefully, you’ll get to try some of these places out!
Seeing as how Paris is one of my favorite cities and currently sits at number one on places I want to see I’m definitely bookmarking this post so I can reference it if I ever visit Paris.
Glad to hear that! Wishing you happy travels for 2016 🙂
I LOVE Paris! Thanks for the recommendations 🙂
You’re welcome 🙂
Never ever knew these restaurants existed in Paris. I will keep this list as a guide for next time. Thank you
You’re welcome! Hopefully, you’ll get to visit a few!
This is great! I am going to Paris next month. Super excited 🙂
Awesome! Have a good trip 🙂
Wow these all look amazing!
Thanks, Jennifer!
I’m saving this list for our next trip to Paris. We went over 10 years ago, and I don’t remember where we ate. I think we missed a lot of great restaurants, though!
Paris has so many great restaurants – and just as many tourist traps, unfortunately. It’s definitely one of those cities that demands plenty of research beforehand!
Thanks for sharing! We’re headed to Paris in spring and I’m definitely going to check out some of these places.
Awesome! Do let me know if you visit any of these restaurants! Have a lovely trip 🙂
Paris has been on my bucket list for 20 years! Love your compilation of all things wonderful.
Thanks! Hope you get to visit soon 🙂
excellent! I now have a foodie bucket list to try if I go back to Paris!
Awesome! Glad to know you’ll try a few out 🙂