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Know Before You Go: Dining at the Eiffel Tower

From casual buffets to the (literal) heights of fine dining, here’s your primer on dining in the Eiffel Tower.

Diners enjoy the view out the huge windows of the Eiffel Tower.
Hi, I'm Claire!

Claire Bullen is an award-winning food, drinks, and travel writer and editor who has lived and worked in Chicago, Philadelphia, New York, Paris, and London. She is the author of The Beer Lover's Table: Seasonal Recipes and Modern Beer Pairings, and the editor at GoodBeerHunting.com. Her writing has also appeared in Time Out New York, The Daily Meal, Pellicle Magazine, and beyond.

It’s not every day that you get to ascend the Eiffel Tower—for some, it’s the stuff of dreams. So when you finally do come face-to-face with the Paris icon, you may as well extend the experience. Luckily, the landmark’s range of restaurants and bars offer an inviting opportunity to unwind, indulge in a taste of classically French cooking, and even toast with a flight of Champagne (or two). Whether you opt for a Michelin-starred restaurant or grab a box of macarons to go, here’s your guide on dining in the Eiffel Tower.

When did the first Eiffel Tower restaurant open?

A meal at Madame Brasserie in the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France.
Head to Madame Brasserie for delicious meals with artistic presentations.Bildquelle: happybunny84 / Tripadvisor

The first restaurant opened its doors in 1889.

The very first restaurants in the Eiffel Tower opened on its 1st floor in 1889, for that year’s Universal Exhibition. As of 2022, the same level welcomed its newest entrant: Madame Brasserie, a convivial restaurant that offers the flexibility of all-day dining with some serious culinary cred. The kitchen—led by chef Thierry Marx—produces seasonal fare using locally-sourced ingredients and classical preparations. If you plan to visit for breakfast or an afternoon snack, don’t worry about booking in advance. But if you wish to come for lunch, bookings are advised—and for dinner, even more so. Out of luck? See if you can grab a chair in its lounge, where you can unwind with a light bite or evening cocktail.

Insider tip: If you can, book a window table facing north—the best vistas from this height (187 feet, or 60 meters up) are overlooking Trocadéro. However, be aware that you’ll pay more for the privilege of a good view.

What is the Michelin star restaurant in the Eiffel Tower?

Le Jules Verne dining room in the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France.
The elegant ambiance of Le Jules Verne has vast views.Bildquelle: Stephan Julliard / Le Jules Verne

Le Jules Verne boasts one Michelin star and is known for its seriously gourmet meals.

An Eiffel Tower icon in its own right, Le Jules Verne has been serving some of Paris’ most celebrated meals since opening in 1983. Led by Chef Frédéric Anton since 2020—and boasting one Michelin star—it’s renowned for its stellar gastronomy, opulent decor, and exceptional views from its 2nd-floor perch 410 feet (125 meters) above street level. Given its charms, reservations are required, and booking well in advance is strongly advised; à la carte and tasting menus are offered for lunch, while dinner is tasting-menu only. Whenever you visit, plan a chic outfit (sportswear and sneakers are not permitted) and make your way directly to the restaurant’s private entrance—no separate entry ticket required.

Insider tip: While Le Jules Verne is lovely any time of day, it’s particularly atmospheric at night, when you can see just how the City of Light earned its nickname.

Is there a casual restaurant in the Eiffel Tower?

Stuffed baguettes for sale at the buffets in the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France.
A stuffed baguette is always a good idea when you're in Paris.Bildquelle: Felix Lipov / Shutterstock

Yes, there are casual buffets on the 1st and 2nd floors.

Not looking for a multi-course meal? Don’t worry, you have options. There are also casual buffets on the esplanade, 1st floor, and 2nd floor, which give you the chance to enjoy some French nibbles without too much fuss. Grab a baguette sandwich if your stomach’s growling, pick up a salad, or make off with a pastry. And don’t forget to peruse the rainbow-hued offerings at the macaron bar before heading on your way.

Insider tip: Traveling with kids? The buffets are your best bet, given that they serve child-friendly fare like pizza and hot dogs, in addition to their salads and sandwiches.

Is there a bar at the top of the Eiffel Tower?

Customers toast a glass outside at The Champagne Bar in the Eiffel Tower and enjoy views of Paris in France.
You're in Paris; it's time to celebrate.Bildquelle: pio3 / Shutterstock

Yes, the Champagne Bar is located at the summit.

The Eiffel Tower’s crowning glory is its summit. Poised a spectacular 906 feet (276 meters) high, the summit may be the priciest part of the tower to visit, but for good reason: you won’t find better views of Paris anywhere. It’s only fitting that the sole option at these lofty heights is the dedicated Champagne bar, where you can indulge in a flute of bubbly (or pick from a selection of non-alcoholic drinks)—and even splurge on a side of caviar if the mood takes you.

Insider tip: Don’t worry about booking in advance: no reservations are taken, so you can enjoy all the frivolity of a spontaneous flute.

Frequently asked questions

Tourists enjoying the view from the summit of the Eiffel Tower.
Don't forget to enjoy the view from the summit.Bildquelle: Cyril Marcilhacy / Viator

Everything you need to know about dining in the Eiffel Tower.

  • What restaurants are there in the Eiffel Tower? The main restaurants in the Eiffel Tower are Madame Brasserie and Le Jules Verne. There are also three bars: The Champagne Bar, the buffets, and the Macaroon Bar.

  • What should I wear to the Eiffel Tower restaurant in Paris? It's always wise to check on the specific restaurant's official website prior to visiting but a general rule of thumb to follow is dressing smart casual. Guests should not opt for sportswear or shorts.

  • Are the Eiffel Tower restaurants expensive? The cost of dining at Eiffel Tower restaurants depends on which restaurant you visit (Madame Brasserie or Jules Verne), and also when you visit them (breakfast, lunch, or dinner). Generally speaking, Le Jules Verne is considered by many to be the most expensive restaurant.

  • Can you eat at Eiffel Tower restaurants without a reservation? Although reservations are not mandatory, they are strongly encouraged.

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