10 Legendary Parisian Brasseries You Have to Dine at Before You Die

Classic Parisian brasseries are timeless, casual yet refined restaurants that serve traditional French dishes like steak frites, oysters, and escargot in a lively, open setting. With long hours and distinctive Art Deco or Belle Époque decor, they provide a special atmosphere that blends local charm with historical elegance.

Here are the 10 most iconic Parisian brasseries.

1. La Coupole

Located on Boulevard du Montparnasse, La Coupole has been a Parisian icon since 1927, and a gathering place for artists like Picasso, Hemingway, and Josephine Baker. The Art Deco interior, with striking pillars and colorful murals, embodies the 1920s Parisian spirit.

Unlike many brasseries, La Coupole serves a broad menu beyond traditional fare, including seafood platters and its signature lamb curry, a nod to colonial influences.

Prices range from €20-€50. Popular and bustling with a dining hall of over 300 seats, La Coupole doesn’t take reservations on the terrace, so early arrival is key to securing an outdoor spot.

2. Le Dôme

Founded in 1898, Le Dôme quickly became a gathering place for artists and intellectuals like Hemingway and Modigliani, making it a significant place in Montparnasse’s bohemian history. Le Dôme sets itself apart with a focus on fresh, high-quality seafood platters featuring oysters, lobster, and langoustines.

The elegant Art Deco interior, with polished wood and vintage mirrors, offers a refined, intimate ambiance compared to La Coupole’s lively setting. Prices are premium, around €30-€80, with a quieter, sophisticated atmosphere.

3. La Closerie des Lilas

Established in 1847, La Closerie des Lilas is one of Paris’s most historic brasseries, famous for hosting literary greats like Hemingway (who even mentions it in A Moveable Feast), Fitzgerald, and Apollinaire.

Also located on Boulevard du Montparnasse, it has an intimate setting with red leather seating, warm wood, and vintage decor – a distinctly romantic and nostalgic vibe.

The brasserie serves traditional French cuisine, with popular dishes like steak tartare and oysters, priced from €25-€60. With its inviting piano bar, La Closerie attracts both Parisians and international visitors thanks to old-world Parisian charm.

4. Bouillon Chartier

Founded in 1896 to make traditional French cuisine accessible, Bouillon Chartier remains a Parisian favorite for budget-friendly dining. Located in the 9th arrondissement, it serves classic dishes like escargot, beef bourguignon, and crème caramel, with most items priced around €10-€20.

The Brasserie stands out with its Belle Époque dining hall, grand mirrors, brass fixtures, and numbered coat racks, which create an authentic atmosphere. It has communal tables and a quick, efficient service, attracting both locals and tourists.

The no-reservations policy often leads to long lines, but the great ambiance is worth the wait.

5. Le Grand Colbert

Located near the Palais Royal, Le Grand Colbert historic brasserie was established in 1900. It boasts a grandiose Belle Époque interior with mosaic floors, decorated mirrors, and large chandeliers.

It became internationally famous after being featured in the film Something’s Gotta Give, a 2003 romantic comedy starring Diane Keaton and Jack Nicholson.

The menu offers French classics like onion soup, roast chicken, and crème brûlée, with prices in the mid-to-high range, typically €20-€40 for mains. An elegant setting that reflects Parisian brasserie culture in a beautifully preserved space.

6. La Rotonde

Founded in 1911, La Rotonde also has close ties to early 20th-century artists and intellectuals in Montparnasse. Unlike others, it became a haven for struggling creatives, with owner Victor Libion famously letting artists like Modigliani and Picasso stay on credit.

The Art Deco interior features brass fixtures and red leather banquettes. With classic French dishes such as steak frites, coq au vin, and seafood platters, mains are priced around €20-€50.

Today, La Rotonde maintains a relaxed policy, welcoming patrons to linger, making it ideal for unhurried meals or quiet reflection.

7. Brasserie Bofinger

Founded in 1864 near the Bastille, Brasserie Bofinger is famous for its opulent Belle Époque decor, including a magnificent stained-glass dome, polished woodwork, and detailed brass accents that create a grand, historic ambiance. It is often described as “the most beautiful brasserie in Paris.”

Bofinger also sets itself apart with a focus on Alsatian cuisine. Signature dishes include choucroute garnie (sauerkraut with meats), oysters, and foie gras, which adds a regional twist to the traditional brasserie menu. Mains range from €25-€60.

8. Au Pied de Cochon

Opened in 1947 near Les Halles, Au Pied de Cochon has earned its reputation as one of Paris’s most famous brasseries. with 24/7 service, it has long catered to the night owls and early risers of the city, including market workers and artists.

The interior is classic, with wood-paneled walls, brass fixtures, and cozy booths. Specialties focus on pork dishes, especially the iconic tête de veau (calf’s head) and pied de cochon (pig’s trotter), alongside hearty French classics like onion soup. Prices are mid-range, around €20-€40 – ideal for an authentic meal any time of day.

9. Brasserie Lipp

In the Saint-Germain-des-Prés area, Brasserie Lipp has been a staple of Parisian life since 1880. Over the years, it has attracted numerous notable figures, including writers like Ernest Hemingway and Albert Camus, as well as politicians such as François Mitterrand. It has become a landmark of French café society.

The interior showcases elements like ceramic tiles, painted ceilings, and large mirrors, reflecting the style popular during its establishment in 1880. Lipp emphasizes traditional, hearty French dishes like choucroute, sausage, and confit de canard, with mains around €25-€50. Service here is famously brisk, and reservations are not accepted, so arriving early is advised, especially on weekends.

10. Bouillon Racine

Founded in 1906 by the Chartier brothers in the Latin Quarter, Bouillon Racine was part of a wave of “bouillons” aimed at providing affordable, hearty meals to the working class.

The place features stunning Art Nouveau decor, featuring intricate woodwork, floral patterns, and large mirrors that reflect early 20th-century Parisian style.

It serves French classics like escargot, coq au vin, and crème brûlée, with mains typically ranging from €15-€30, keeping with the traditional bouillon mission of affordable, quality meals.