Paris is a very old city and despite tumultuous centuries of wars, occupation and revolutions, the city is home to some seriously old restaurants. How old is old? Well the oldest restaurants in Paris go back to the 1500s and there are some that are still in the original buildings!.
If you’re on the hunt for traditional and authentic French food in an old Parisian setting then this list is for you.
Which are the Oldest Restaurants & Cafés in Paris?
Le Procope
Le Procope is the oldest restaurant in the Saint Germain des Prés area of Paris. They opened their doors in 1686 and have seen many famous figures dine there (including Voltaire and Diderot).
Like many of the oldest restaurants, it’s changed multiple times over the years. Founded by Francesco Procopio dei Coltelli (Italian chef & inventor of ice cream), the café quickly became extremely popular with well-known Parisian literary figures.
The café continued operating for over 200 years until it finally closed in 1890. It reopened shortly after becoming a Chartier restaurant – one of the famous bouillon restaurants in Paris. It finally reopened again in 1957 under the old name, Le Procope.
Go today and you’ll step back in time. It’s a beautiful restaurant with historical documents adorning the walls. You’ll even find Napoleon’s hat in the entrance! The food is of course classically French. French onion soup, pâté en croute and langoustine ravioli for entrees. They even have historical dishes on the menu including tête de veau (veal head) served just like it was in 1686 and ‘revolutionary’ beef fillet served with red wine sauce and seared foie gras.
Address: 13 Rue de l’Ancienne Comédie, 75006
Le Train Bleu
To the east of the city, in the 12th arrondissement, you’ll find Le Train Bleu, an iconic restaurant located in the city’s Gare de Lyon.
Whilst only established in 1901, Le Train Bleu actually has been operating non-stop having only changed its name once in 1963. Its opulent interior features gilded ceilings, intricate frescoes and grand chandeliers – it really is stunning.
Originally named Buffet de la Gare, it was renamed in homage to the famous Paris-Ventimiglia train which took those on the Grand Tour down to the French Riviera.
You might think Le Train Bleu only caters to those waiting to board their TGV train with a rapid service but it’s very much a refined old school restaurant. Serving food all day (breakfast, lunch and dinner) it’s a great spot for an authentically Parisian meal.
The food is classic as you can get on the refined side (and yes it is quite pricey). One of my favourite fish (and Provençal dishes) dishes – John Dory fillets with Artichokes à la Barigoule – is done very well. Roast leg of lamb, served medium rare is roasted and carved table side.
Address: Gare de Lyon, Pl. Louis Armand hall 1, 75012
Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole
Au Vieux Paris d’Arcole is one of the oldest (as well as being quite the mouthful) restaurants in Paris next to Notre Dame. A stones throw away (a little over 100m) from the cathedral itself, it’s a very pretty restaurant away from the hustle and bustle on the Île de la Cité.
The brasserie has a rather unique history as the building itself was constructed in 1512 to be home of the Canon of Notre-Dame. What’s that you ask? Well it was someone who was in charge of leading prayer, conducting the choir and helping the poor.
The building was eventually sold by the Diocese in 1737 becoming a wine bar. Since then, it’s become a popular spot for Parisians to drink, eat and socialise.
In its current guise, the restaurant serves up classical French cuisine. Expect foie gras, snails in garlic butter and house terrine for entrees and confit duck leg and sole meunière for mains. Note that I have not dined here – it is in a very touristy area – oh and it is pricey!
Address: 24 Rue Chanoinesse, 75004
La Tour d’Argent
Le Tour d’Argent is supposedly the oldest restaurant in Paris’ Latin Quarter, dating back 1582. Situated on the left bank right next the Seine, it’s modern (yes it has changed a lot inside) dining space gives stunning views over to the Notre-Dame Cathedral.
The origins of the restaurant are rather uncertain as the owners claim that it was opened in 1582 yet there’s not a lot evidence to support this.
It’s said that a French Chef, Rourteau, opened the restaurant – L’Hostellerie de La Tour d’Argent – on the banks of the Seine, next to the Château de la Tournelle. The restaurant was said to have been situated within a Renaissance style tower and decorated with Mica. The shiny and sparkly qualities of the materials gave the restaurant its name (The Silver Tower in English).
It’s also supposedly where King Henry III discovered the fork as the Italian merchants who used them, frequented the restaurant.
The current iteration of the Le Tour d’Argent dates back to 1911 when the Terrail family bought the restaurant from Frédéric Delair.
Despite the restaurant losing its 3rd and 2nd stars, it’s still a very famous restaurant and a foodie destination. Today they hold 1 Michelin star and offer tasting menus that range from €160 for lunch to €450 for dinner,.
Le Tour d’Argent is known for one dish that has remained on the menu for the last 100 years – canard à la presse (pressed duck). This is a roast duck that’s carved at the table and the carcass is pressed releasing all the juices to make a meaty, roast duck sauce.
Address: 15 Quai de la Tournelle, 75005
