Standing in front of the Musée d’Orsay, you are surrounded by some of the most famous Impressionist paintings in the world. Yet after hours of admiring Monet, Van Gogh, and Renoir, hunger has a way of pulling you back to the present. The neighborhood around the former train station is undeniably elegant, but it is also surprisingly practical when it comes to food. You do not need a Michelin-starred reservation or a hefty expense account to eat well here.
Many visitors assume that dining near a major Parisian landmark means overpaying for mediocre tourist menus. While that risk exists on the main boulevards, the side streets of the 7th arrondissement tell a different story. This is a residential area where civil servants, gallery owners, and locals still demand honest, affordable cooking. If you know where to look, a satisfying meal can cost less than a museum audio guide.
The key is to step away from the immediate riverfront and explore the Rue du Bac, Rue de Verneuil, and the streets surrounding the Marché Saint-Germain. These areas are a short walk from the museum but feel like a different world. Here, traditional bistros sit next to modern salad bars, and Japanese set lunches compete with classic French crêperies. The variety is excellent for such a compact district.
Because the Musée d’Orsay attracts a global crowd, the local restaurants have adapted to serve both quick lunches and leisurely early dinners. You can find a warm bowl of pho, a perfectly crisp croque-monsieur, or a fresh falafel wrap within a ten-minute stroll. The best part is that many of these spots offer fixed-price formulas at lunch, giving you two or three courses for a fraction of the evening cost.
Timing matters just as much as location. Parisians eat lunch between noon and 2 p.m., and many affordable restaurants stop serving hot food after that window. If you plan to visit the museum in the morning, aim to eat a late lunch around 1:30 p.m. to avoid the rush. Alternatively, grab a snack from a bakery and wait until the early dinner service begins around 7 p.m.
This guide focuses on places where a full meal typically costs under €20 per person. That includes a main dish and a drink, or a two-course lunch formula. Prices in Paris fluctuate, but these spots have built their reputations on consistency and value. They are not secret, but they are reliable, and that is exactly what you need after a long museum visit.
Below is a curated list of affordable, high-quality options within walking distance of the Musée d’Orsay. Each one offers something distinct, from classic French comfort food to fresh international flavors.
Café de l'Empire
| Address | 17 Rue du Bac, 75007 Paris |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | 01 40 15 60 61 |
You must visit this place when in Paris. Visited after leaving Musée d’Orsay.
- great location.
- even better atmosphere
- all staff especially Nola were exceptionally friendly and patient with us.
- my first French meal in Paris was everything I’d dreamt it would be.
- the food, wine and service were without fault.
- the prices were surprisingly very very reasonable especially as we had just considered a couple of other restaurants nearby and walked away.
What a fantastic experience of Paris and their lovely hospitality.
THANK YOU 🙏❤️
Amazing place, super nice staff, delicious food!
Duck confit! Ahh! ❤️
Twe waiter was great, he even suggested a different wine to go with my food and brought some for me to taste. And suggestion really worked very well!
Highly recommend!
Very cozy also, and great music!
Café de l’Empire – a good lunch
We stopped here for lunch and overall, we were happy with it. Good food, friendly and efficient service, and a pleasant Parisian atmosphere. Nothing spectacular, but everything was just as it should be. A good place for lunch while sightseeing.
We selected this place to grab a fast and reasonably priced dinner after coming off a long train ride. Pros: typical bistro menu (reasonably priced), very professional head of waitstaff, seating possibilities near windows. Cons: quality was not very good (fish overcooked, salad with few greens that wilt under the warm meat), you ate dining within 6 inches of your neighbor. It fulfilled my expectation of being a quick dinner but would not come back again.
I ordered duck and a dessert. Both were delicious. The portion of duck was really big. The service was great and the staff were very patient. The price is reasonable too. Highly recommend this place!
A little incident: I left my power bank on the chair. Luckily, a nearby customer and a waiter helped keep it safe. I’m so glad I got it back. Thanks again to both of you ❤️
Les Antiquaires
| Address | 13 Rue du Bac, 75007 Paris |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 AM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 AM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 AM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 AM Friday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 AM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 AM |
| Phone | 01 42 61 08 36 |
Amazing service from Esteban, thank you very much for the great lunch together with my parents. He gave great hospitality and rapid service. Please allow tipping possibility by card.
Seabass, duck, and meat were all 10/10. Great authentic french dishes of the highest quality and great location.
An unforgettable lunch experience! The atmosphere is absolutely wonderful, creating the perfect setting for a memorable meal. Every dish was of exceptional quality, showcasing outstanding French cuisine. The service was fast, friendly, and professional, making us feel truly welcome from start to finish. We left genuinely impressed and are already looking forward to coming back to try the rest of the menu. Highly recommended!
Such a lovely meal! The atmosphere was really nice and relaxed, the food was delicious especially the Tortiglioni Serrano, definitely my favourite! 😋
A little shout-out to Goksel for looking after us so well too super friendly, attentive and genuinely lovely. He definitely made our evening even nicer. Merci beaucoup, Goksel! 🥂🫰
Enjoyed our time a lot, thanks for the wonderful food and experience!
My husband loved it so much that we came back again for his birthday. Seafood is amazing, linguine is awesome.
Everything is fantastic
An amazing restaurant! That’s the best way I can describe it.
It was only a five-minute walk from our hotel, which is why we chose it, and it also had excellent Google reviews. It absolutely lived up to the hype and was definitely worth visiting!
There were four of us, and each person ordered two dishes. Every single one was outstanding—there wasn’t a single thing we didn’t enjoy.
Our waitress was kind, friendly, and fun. She patiently answered all of our questions, and when we accidentally ordered two of the same dish, she happily changed one of them without any issue.
The food was simply incredible—I honestly wish I could be back there eating it again. The service was a perfect 10/10. We didn’t have to wait long, and we felt genuinely welcomed throughout the evening.
Even though the restaurant was completely full all night, they still managed to find a table for us, which we really appreciated.
I would absolutely come back again without hesitation!
La Bonne Excuse
| Address | 48 Rue de Verneuil, 75007 Paris |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 01 42 61 50 21 |
I was unable to get to my Seine River dinner and was feeling a little sorry for myself. Walking back to my hotel, I came upon La Bonne Excuse. What a lucky find! I had a delightful solo dinner - excellent food, nice wine and lovely proprietors. I had the foie gras—yum! Not something I eat often but it was delicious, served with a red jelly which added a nice touch. Then I had the asparagus starter which was very different, but delicious. It was white asparagus, lightly grilled, with some bits of salty ham. I know, sounds strange, but it was very good. Had the vanilla ice cream with chocolate fondant. A couple of glasses of white burgundy topped it off.
One of the best dining experiences in Paris. This restaurant is owned by a cute French couple, the lady talks perfect English. She is professional with her job. I was impressed by the food. The ingredients that the chef uses is super fresh. Highly recommend.
The place is not massive so if you come for lunch it’s best to reserve. We had a lunch menu and a la carte. The avocado sauce with shrimp was delightful. The sauce on the salmon with risotto was lovely, but the risotto was too cooked for my taste. The sauce on the beef was delicious.
The only thing we didn’t appreciate was that they served people who came after us first, because they were in a hurry. It was during lunch break, so we went back quite late because of the delay.
A family vibe bistro with high quality, balanced and matching ingredient selection and combination. Tuna, salmon and prawn are all fresh and excellently flavored. The staff is extremely friendly and welcoming.
Cozy little gem near the musee d'orsay. Friendly and attentive service, although 2 person running the restaurant (includes the kitchen) instead of feeling left out, it's much more personal and warm. Sometimes the chef will bring the dishes and you can mingle with him. The server is very friendly and speaks English well and you can tell she is genuinely happy to serve. We have a wonderful meal there, will definitely recommend the place.
PS tonight's guail is excellent, the sauce is sweet and rich plus the grapes adding a touch of sweetness and freshness makes perfect balance.
Le Drop Café
| Address | 36 Rue de Bellechasse, 75007 Paris |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 01 45 51 54 09 |
The food was very good. I got a salad with grilled chicken - the portion is large, it’s tasty and filling, definitely enough to get as a whole meal by itself. The plat du jour deal was also great. Very filling and tasty. The staff was friendly. Good place to have lunch, but beware that it’s jam-packed and very loud as every centimeter is full of talking people
I got chicken with mash, and it was great. I also got a chocolate mousse. Our server was excellent. The atmosphere was also great. Not a ton of tourists here either. Overall a great experience.
Croque monsieur and croque campagnard madame for lunch. Soooo good and excellent fries. Great service. And a bunch of good looking and nice staff. Jeremie was the man today.
Wonderful staff. They encouraged us to try new drinks, helped us explore new flavors and practice our French in a friendly atmosphere. This bar is also in a great location for sightseeing. They have a “French toast” dessert that is excellent and goes great with a coffee or cocktail.
A great find in the Saint Germain neighborhood! We happened upon this place after another restaurant did suit our needs. We were seated right away and the staff were friendly and attentive. They were accommodating of my husband’s allergies to nuts and peanuts. We started with the eggs and mayonnaise then I ordered the onion soup while my husband had the steak and fries. Everything was very tasty! The atmosphere was laid back and enjoyable. Definitely recommend!
Di Como
| Address | 16 Rue du Bac, 75007 Paris |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | 01 42 60 37 74 |
Good food, good size, king of expensive but if you don’t eat that much, you could even share a plate.
I recommend it, I’d come again.
Te crust of the pizzas is really great and they give you a generous quantity of Parmesan for the pastas.
🕓 I visited Di Como restaurant on Wednesday 3 June 2026 in the early evening. I was with three other people. This was my first visit.
📍I used Google Maps to find the restaurant, which was easy and led me straight to the right place.
🍽 The restaurant is fairly small with full table service - it was bright and clean.
🤗 The team were very friendly and welcoming and I had no issues - we got everything we expected in good time and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
🍕 I enjoyed the Diavola pizza for my main course. The food arrived hot, was well presented and tasted really good. There was a good selection of food and I found something that appealed to me easily.
💷 The food was very good value for money, I paid around £20 for my pizza and a soft drink.
⭐️ Overall I really enjoyed my visit and would thoroughly recommend the restaurant.
Walked in with no expectations and walked having eaten one of the best Spaghetti alle vongole's that I have had in France. Service was charming and the waitress made me use all nine words I know in French. Will definitely come back to this neighborhood Trattoria!
Amazing food, lasagna pesto and citron dessert were superb! Great service by Francesco, he was very friendly and attentive.
Food and service were excellent!! The pizza, the spaghetti, the gnocchi were the best food we’ve had in Paris! Our server Masimo was excellent! Loved this place!! Highly recommend!
La Dauphine
| Address | 237 Bd Saint-Germain, 75007 Paris |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:30 AM – 10:30 PM Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 10:30 PM Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 10:30 PM Thursday: 7:30 AM – 10:30 PM Friday: 7:30 AM – 10:30 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | 01 45 51 32 23 |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A wonderful surprise in Paris.
We stopped here for lunch after visiting the Musée d’Orsay, and it turned out to be one of the highlights of the day. The Salade Norvégienne had just been added to the menu that very day, and it was absolutely delicious—fresh, beautifully balanced, and full of flavor.
The waiter recommended (and served) a glass of Gris Blanc Rosé, which paired perfectly with the salad. One of the best food-and-wine combinations I’ve enjoyed in a long time.
Friendly service, relaxed atmosphere, and a lovely terrace. I would happily come back on my next visit to Paris.
Very good service and nice atmosphere. I only tried their cocktails - they were great. Because on hot days this is the best. Next time I will try the cuisine as well, as the menu was tempting.
The food was great, nothing to complain about. The decor is very pleasant and climatic songs play in the background, but what really deserves to be mentioned is the great attitude of the staff! Our waiter was very friendly and funny and even offered to take a photo of us it's a great surprise to find a place full of such kind people.
Delicious food, really well made. The price-to-quality ratio is perfect, but the thing that really took my heart was the staff. Five of my family members and I really appreciated the service from two wonderful waitresses (unfortunately I do not know their names) who took care of us and spoke English very well, which helped us – tourists – communicate better. The atmosphere was great and after the main course we decided to eat dessert, which was delicious as well. Compared to restaurants all around Paris, this one in particular was really welcoming and warm. I recommend tourists, and not only, to visit this place.
Everything was excellent and very delicious. The service was wonderful. We came back twice.
Le Bistrot de Paris
| Address | 33 Rue de Lille, 75007 Paris |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 7:00 – 10:30 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 7:00 – 10:30 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 7:00 – 10:30 PM Friday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 7:00 – 10:30 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 7:00 – 10:30 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 01 42 61 16 83 |
Le Bistrot de Paris is a little French brasserie hidden like gem. I felt like I e traveled in time back to my childhood in the eighties. The food was simple but delicious and the waiters were so adorable. All the ambiance was surreal and I felt like in the mi ie A Night in Paris. I got out of there felling nostalgic, happy and almost high.
What a fun place to be and people watch. I liked the selection of entree/plat/dessert here compared to other bistro fare in the area. The entrees were delicious and sometimes rather large. The plats were all well seasoned and richly sauced. The desserts were delicious. The server staff left their rum bottle on the table for the entirety of our dessert consumption. The crème de Chantilly was served on the side and we used it with both the warm cake that was sliced open in front of us and the generous scoop of chocolate mousse served from the bowl table side. The restaurant plays international dance music and on a weekday night the place was hopping.
My friend who lives in Paris recommends this place to everyone coming to visit and it makes perfect sense. Service is friendly and funny. The food is VERY French. Everything was delicious. Would definitely come back. Make a reservation! We tried to walk in and was told they were fully committed but reservations the day prior or even morning of are easy to make
Don't come here as a solo traveler. They treat you as an imposition, without much courtesy, even though you're paying as much for your meal as every other individual here. They didn't bring me the menu of specials, refused to make the cocktail I ordered (a gin martini without olives--they have the ingredients and list cocktails on their menu), brought bread but took away the bread knife because I already ordered steak, didn't bring butter or a plate for the bread, and grabbed my waterbottle off the table before I was finished.
The atmosphere is less charming than other reviews suggest.
The only saving grace is the food. Not the best entrecote in Paris, but it was good and came with good bread and good fries.
Came under recommendation by Le Frenchies and it did not disappoint. The food was fantastically prepared. We had the duck leg, gnochi, tuna tartar, chocolate mouse and ice cream pastrie with chocolate sauce. We had several drinks of wine and cocktails to match each dish. Total bill was €150 for 2. The service was unusually attentive for French restaurants. We know very few words in French but all the staff were helpful and knew English. This is a hot spot for local French people so if you want a non tourist experience, romatic dinner and high quality food at a reasonable price, highly recommend.
La Petite Chaise
| Address | 36 Rue de Grenelle, 75007 Paris |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:30 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:30 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:30 PM Friday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:30 PM Saturday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 7:00 – 10:30 PM Sunday: 12:00 – 2:30 PM, 7:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | 01 42 22 13 35 |
Really amazing dinner. All dishes we tried were absolutely delicious, great tartare, great fish, crab salad was to die for. Maybe the tarte tatin was a bit too much burnt for my liking but still soo buttery and so crispy! Food, wine and cocktails are definitely 5/5 but unfortunately I have to take a point from the experience and here is why. The place is lovely and small, but tables are ridiculously too close to each others. It feels like one big family dinner, and I believe this place is only for XS people unfortunately, because it’s hard to stay this way eating this good!
La Petite Chaise in Saint Germain is a special place.
From the moment we arrived Bruno and his team were warm and professional. There was a bit of confusion with our reservation through the hotel concierge but it was handled with total grace and ease which set the tone for the night.
The food was outstanding. The duck with foie gras was rich and perfectly done. The Dover sole was classic and executed beautifully. The steak tartare was easily one of the best I’ve ever had and definitely in my top five.
Louie our waiter was excellent. Kind, knowledgeable and genuine. He guided us without ever pushing which made the experience feel natural and relaxed.
The wine list is exceptional with depth and serious options if you enjoy great bottles.
You will hear a mix of English and French but don’t let that fool you. This is not a tourist trap. It is authentic Paris with incredible food and a great atmosphere.
Highly recommend.
Dining at La Petit Chaise in Paris was a truly charming experience. The food was exceptional, with each dish full of rich, memorable flavor and clearly prepared with great care.
The atmosphere is deeply romantic and steeped in history, which makes the whole evening feel even more special. The service was courteous, attentive, and quick, striking a perfect balance between professionalism and warmth.
The only slight downside is that the tables are a bit close together, which can make the space feel somewhat tight. Even so, it hardly takes away from the experience — it was a beautiful evening and one I would happily repeat.
Superb food and extensive wine list with plenty of reasonably priced options! Wait staff were knowledgeable and very attentive, special kudos to Lucas who took great care of us! Don’t miss enjoying this culinary gem that has been pleasing guests since 1680. Highly recommended!
We have been here a few times in the past. We absolutely loved it then and loved it this time as well. We would recommend this restaurant to everyone. The food was amazing. My husband had the French onion soup and the chicken. I had the veal and it was the greatest I’ve ever had. The chocolate mousse was decadent and delicious.
The Family
| Address | 7 Rue La Fayette, 75009 Paris |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | 01 42 80 03 54 |
We visited “The Family” restaurant in Paris and had a great experience.
We ordered the onion soup, which was one of the best we’ve ever had – perfectly balanced in flavor and rich in taste. The tartare was also excellent: fresh, well-prepared, and full of flavor.
We also tried the fish and a dessert that came as a trio of small portions, which was a great way to sample different flavors. Everything we had was delicious and of high quality.
Overall, a very enjoyable experience with great food. Highly recommended!
Had lunch with a friend in this cosy restaurant. No reservation needed but it was packed! I had the Onglet de boeuf at medium-rare. It’s pretty good. I liked the pepper sauce over the blue cheese.
We found a random spot near Galaries Lafayette. We did not have any reservation. The staff was kind and patient. Asked us to wait 10mins. They will try to get a table for us.
It is a cosy restaurant. We ordered tandoori salmon with basmati rice, cod fish filet, risotto, linguine and french onion soup.
Soup was very good. Melted cheese made it super good. Tandoori salmon was soft and melt easy in mouth. Risotto with big prawns were fantastic ! Cod fish was good.
We certainly enjoyed the lunch. Highly recommended.
This place has very good food and wonderful staff and service. The gentleman working are very nice. This is such a cozy little restaurant next to the galeries lafayette.
We ate at "The Family" three times during our vacation last week because everything was simply fantastic. The food was excellent (and we tried quite a few dishes), the atmosphere was very pleasant, and the service staff, in particular, were incredibly friendly—we had a wonderful time! Many thanks to everyone at the restaurant for that!
Oh, and one more thing: I’ll miss the pepper sauce the most 🙂
Happy Caffé
| Address | 214 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:30 AM – 10:30 PM Tuesday: 7:30 AM – 10:30 PM Wednesday: 7:30 AM – 10:30 PM Thursday: 7:30 AM – 10:30 PM Friday: 7:30 AM – 10:30 PM Saturday: 7:30 AM – 10:30 PM Sunday: 7:30 AM – 10:30 PM |
| Phone | 09 53 52 96 91 |
Savory crêpes here are so good that we ended up ordering a second one after finishing the first. Highly recommend the kebab + cheese + egg combination — super flavorful and satisfying. We also tried the banana chocolate crêpe for dessert and it was delicious too. Definitely worth a visit!
You will be missing out if you don’t eat here. The 6 gentlemen work like clockwork, knowing what the other is thinking. Efficient, friendly, small establishment that’s big on taste, value, and team work. The New York sandwich is great sandwich that starts with a nice crunch of the French baguette. The crepes are exceptionally large and loaded, and packed with flavour and freshness. This is a bucket list restaurant for lunch that’s outstanding value. My kids loved the food. You guys are brilliant, thank you.
Happy Café was such a fun stop for us—definitely one we’ll remember!
We ordered two Nutella crepes, a Kinder Bueno crepe, a Nutella crepe with pistachio ice cream, and a marshmallow-topped donut, and everything was delicious. The crepes were warm, soft, and generously filled (we clearly couldn’t get enough of the Nutella 😄). The Kinder Bueno crepe was super indulgent and perfect for chocolate lovers, and the Nutella crepe with pistachio ice cream was a great combo—rich, creamy, and a little different. The donut topped with marshmallows was also a fun, sweet treat.
But by far, the highlight was the owner. He was absolutely hilarious and created such a welcoming, friendly atmosphere. He made us feel right at home from the moment we arrived, which really made the whole experience stand out.
Great desserts, amazing vibes, and an owner who truly makes the place special—we’d definitely come back!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Best Milkshakes and coffee in opposite big wheel. Paris – Bon Appétit!
If you’re looking for one of the best milkshakes in Paris, this place is a must-visit! The milkshakes are incredibly rich, creamy, and perfectly blended with high-quality ingredients. Every sip is packed with flavor, and the presentation is just as impressive as the taste.
The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and the staff are friendly and attentive, making the whole experience even better. Whether you’re craving a classic chocolate shake or something more indulgent, you won’t be disappointed.
Highly recommended for anyone with a sweet tooth. Bon appétit!
Happy Café definitely lives up to its name. The people here are genuinely kind, friendly, and seem to enjoy what they do. The menu has plenty of great options, and everything we ordered was fresh and delicious. You can really see why it’s called Happy Café. It’s not just the food, it’s the people. We’d happily come back the next time we’re in Paris.
One small thing that really stood out: one of our orders was taking a little longer than expected, and since it was such a hot day, the staff brought us complimentary lemon drinks while we waited to make sure we stayed hydrated. It’s little gestures like that which turn a good meal into a memorable experience.
Brasserie Le Bourbon
| Address | 1 Pl. du Palais Bourbon, 75007 Paris |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM Friday: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | 01 45 51 58 27 |
If you are looking for an authentic French dining experience, this is the place to be. From the moment you walk in, the atmosphere feels quintessentially French—charming, welcoming, and elegant without being overly pretentious.
They offer a fantastic choice of French cuisine, covering all the classics you’d hope to find. Whether you’re a fan of seafood, rich meats, or delicate vegetarian starters, there is something for everyone.
It’s a great spot if you want to explore the depth of French flavors beyond just the typical tourist dishes.
The quality of the food is nice. You can tell the ingredients are fresh and prepared with real expertise. Portions are quite large and very satisfying. You definitely get great value for your money, and you certainly won't leave feeling hungry!
The service adds to the overall wonderful vibe of the meal. I would highly recommend this restaurant to anyone who appreciates high-quality, hearty French meals in a historical setting.
“Good service deserves applause. Bad service deserves notes.”
We stopped here after visiting Musée de l'Orangerie looking for a leisurely lunch and honestly, they delivered exactly the kind of Paris afternoon you hope for.
We ordered the Greek salad, the beef tartare prepared (with pickles), and steak. All dishes were fresh, flavorful, and clearly handled with care. The tartare was exceptionally well balanced, the salad tasted bright and fresh. The steak had a few slightly chewy spots, but the flavor was excellent and everything was served properly hot, so it definitely didn’t stop the plate from being cleaned. Both plates came with sides of potatoes (fries for tartar, fried potatoes for steak) that arrived absolutely piping hot and perfectly prepared — which sounds like a small detail until you realize how often potatoes show up lukewarm at otherwise good restaurants.
The location itself is gorgeous, and the covered heated patio ended up being the perfect escape from whatever strange identity crisis Paris weather is having this May.
As Americans, we were treated warmly and professionally by the staff from start to finish. The French clientele may have been throwing us a little side-eye here and there, but honestly? That’s part of the atmosphere package at this point. The staff remained welcoming, attentive, and never rushed us.
If you ARE American visiting Paris, lean into the culture here. Sit longer. Talk more. Enjoy the pacing of the meal instead of treating lunch like a pit stop. But if you are in a rush, just communicate that to your server — they absolutely adjusted the pacing once they knew what guests wanted.
Paris may occasionally judge you, but this lunch made us feel welcome anyway.
Verdict: Round of applause. No notes.
The atmosphere is good, the server is nice too! However, there are bones in my salmon pasta and the noodles are kinda hard.
Amazing Steamed Scottish Salmon! It had little tomato and mango and cucumber chunks on it and rice with it. Great Gelato as well!
Excellent Steak Frites!
The atmosphere is great. Everything is clean and the decorations and paintings really add to that.
The waiters are friendly and gave me an english menu immediately after realizing I did not speak french.
I definitely recommend the Flank Steak with shallot sauce! The fries were crunchy and the steak was a perfect medium.
Brasserie des Prés
| Address | 6 Cr du Commerce Saint-André, 75006 Paris |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | 01 42 03 44 13 |
Dinner was great! Be sure to make a reservation for dinner in advance if you can. Otherwise, be prepared for a line if you walk up. We showed up about 20 minutes before they opened and were able to get in, but the line behind us was at least 20 people long before the restaurant (kitchen) even opened!
We had the escargot, fish of the day, deviled eggs and the duck. All the food was great!
Cocktails and wine were also both fantastic.
We had an excellent dinner here! The restaurant is tucked away in a charming little alley. We arrived around 7:30–8pm and there was a line for a table, but the wait was quite short and we were seated before long.
The service was absolutely top-notch from start to finish. We each started with a spritz, which was a little different from the usual Aperol Spritz, but still very good and refreshing.
My partner had the beef tartare and I had the beef bourguignon. It normally comes with pasta, but I asked if I could have mashed potatoes instead and they were happy to accommodate. Both dishes were excellent!
For dessert, we shared the cherry clafoutis and the Paris-Brest and… just wow! Such a great way to end the meal.
Excellent food, wonderful service and a beautiful setting. I highly recommend this restaurant and would absolutely return!
I had a great time with my partner when we walked-in for dinner on July 19. The terrine was delicious and the pork dish for two was so rich and comforting. For dessert the crème brûlée and saint honoree and Paris-brest were scrumptious, we cleaned our plates! Florian was an excellent server and extremely friendly and helpful to us the entire time we dined. I would definitely come back again for the great service and food.
We ordered the onion soup and the beef bourguignon. The onion soup had a smoky, fire-grilled flavor that made it absolutely delicious. It’s definitely a dish each person should try at least once.
The beef bourguignon had a slight mix of pork as well. The mushrooms were well-seasoned, and the meat was tender and flavorful. The pre-meal bread was also pleasantly chewy, like it had been freshly baked in-house.
I ordered a small 250 ml beer, which I really appreciated since you can adjust the portion size. Even though the line was long, the staff were very busy and efficient, and the food was prepared quickly.
Overall, it’s a truly excellent restaurant. It will definitely brighten your day.
Had a lovely dinner out on the little terrace at this brasserie. It's in a very busy little laneway which adds to atmosphere. Food and drinks were delicious, well priced. Florian our waiter was the absolute best and kept everything running so smoothly!!! Thank you for a memorable dinner!
Would recommend making a reservation especially on a weekend!
Tips for Eating Affordably Near the Musée d’Orsay
Saving money near a major museum requires more than just picking the right restaurant. A few smart habits can cut your food budget in half while improving the quality of your meal. The following tips reflect how locals approach lunch and dinner in this upscale but practical neighborhood.
1. Order the lunch formula. Most bistros and brasseries offer a “formule déjeuner” or “menu du midi” on weekdays. This typically includes a starter and main, or main and dessert, for €15 to €20. The same dishes ordered à la carte in the evening can cost 40% more.
2. Drink tap water. In France, asking for “une carafe d’eau” is completely normal and free. Bottled water can add €5 or more to your bill. The tap water in Paris is perfectly safe and often served chilled.
3. Avoid eating on the museum’s immediate perimeter. The cafés directly facing the Musée d’Orsay pay high rent and pass that cost to you. Walk five to seven minutes inland toward Rue du Bac or Rue Saint-Dominique. You will find better food at lower prices almost immediately.
4. Buy picnic supplies from a market or bakery. If the weather is pleasant, pick up a baguette, some cheese, and fruit from a nearby fromagerie or the Marché Saint-Germain. The Seine riverbanks and the Tuileries Garden are lovely spots for an affordable picnic with a view.
5. Look for ethnic restaurants at lunch. Vietnamese, Lebanese, and Japanese spots in the 7th arrondissement often serve generous set menus for under €15. These are especially good options if you want vegetables, lean protein, or a break from rich French sauces.
6. Skip the café crème at the table. Coffee in a sit-down restaurant can cost €5 or more. Instead, finish your meal and walk to a nearby stand-up bar or bakery counter, where an espresso costs around €1.50 to €2.
Eating well near the Musée d’Orsay does not require compromise. The neighborhood rewards those who wander a few blocks, follow the lunch crowd, and embrace the local rhythm. Whether you want a steaming bowl of ramen, a classic omelet with frites, or a fresh salad bowl, there is an affordable table waiting for you.
After your meal, you can return to the museum’s collection or simply stroll along the Seine with a full stomach and a clear conscience. Paris is a city of indulgence, but that indulgence is best enjoyed when you know you have eaten well without overspending.
