End of Year Roundup 2015: The Best Restaurants in Paris

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

Brasserie Barbès, Paris

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.

Hero, Paris

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).

East Mamma, Paris

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

Buvette, Paris

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.

Frenchie To Go, Paris

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!

Big Fernand, Paris

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?

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