There are thousands of bars and restaurants in Paris, some are known around the world like the Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots, famous for those who once drank there. But these are not the places where Parisians go to relax at the end of the day. So, if you’re looking for an authentic bar or restaurant, one that the locals love and frequent, here are four fab bars and restaurants in Paris you could easily miss but are sure to love.
Hotel OFF Paris Seine
For something really different, this converted catamaran is a place that makes you stop in your tracks. It’s the first floating hotel in Paris, moored on the left bank and well located for transport right by Gare de Lyon and Gare d’Austerlitz. It’s a two storey hotel that’s been renovated in style with suites over the river and quayside. It also has a terrific bar and restaurant and Parisians flock here for the ambiance, the views, the friendly service and the huge summer terrace on the quay. Me, I like the gold swan in the tiny swimming pool on deck – and the cocktails! In just three words: funky, friendly and floating.
Find it at: 20-22 Port d’Austrelitz Paris 13th offparisseine
Les Ombres
This restaurant is tucked away at the top of Musée du Quai Branly. It’s a most extraordinary location, not just because it’s on top of a museum but for the incredible views it offers over the roof tops of Paris. And for the sight of the most famous lady in France – the Eiffel Tower. I went for dinner and without fail, everyone in the restaurant was mesmerised by the twinkling tower which puts on a light show on the hour. Cameras clicked, videos whirred, diners ooh’d and ah’d. That poor chef I thought to myself as the food was delivered and didn’t have quite the same effect. The restaurant is open whether the museum is or not. It’s an expensive restaurant (lunch is cheaper than dinner) but for that view – well worth va va vooming in the lift to the rooftop.
Restaurant Pozada
This great little restaurant is nestled between the Rue de Montreuil and Boulevard Voltaire in the east of Paris. An inexpensive, utterly delicious menu in a beautifully renovated building makes this a very popular place with the locals. You can get a snack and a beer or glass of wine here as well as a menu which features the best of produce from independent farms and artisans. Seasonal and scrumptious with a great atmosphere and don’t miss the melt in your mouth cheese and tomato tarts!
2 rue Guénot Paris 11th Metro: Nation / Rue des Boulets; pozada
Rosa Bonheur
An unusual and quirky bar on a huge barge on the Seine! With great tapas, beer, wines and cocktails, Parisians adore this friendly bar with a unique atmosphere. Built in 1867, the green and white boat is a “guinguette” a traditional word used to describe a place where you can eat, drink and dance. It’s a great place for a food and drink place during the day but it’s at night when this place comes alive. Picnic style food, a heaving dance floor, eclectic music and a friendly atmosphere make this one of the most fun night time venues in Paris.
Port des Invalides, Quai d’Orsay, Paris 7th; Metro Invalides; rosabonheur
