Are you ready to enjoy six beautiful terraces for lunch in the summer? If that is your case, look no further than Paris, France.
The French capital is renowned not only for its exquisite restaurants but also for its vibrant terrace culture. With over 10,000 terraces, the city offers a variety of options to suit every traveler and budget. From charming, cozy coffee shops to upscale dining spots, Paris truly has something for everyone. Find below where to lunch or dine if you ever plan on visiting Paris.
Table of Contents
Six beautiful terraces in Paris for lunch
1. Le Jardin
Le Jardin is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Paris’s 11th district. This secret garden offers guests a delightful selection of homemade Middle Eastern cuisine. With a Sunday brunch priced at just 25 euros, it provides an affordable dining option for travelers seeking budget-friendly eateries in the City of Light. Le Jardin is open from Tuesday to Saturday, with hours from 11 AM to 3 PM and 6 PM to 11 PM. Sunday brunch begins at 12 PM. Find this gem at 108 Rue de Montreuil in the 11th arrondissement.
2. Laïa
This restaurant is one of my absolute favorites. When I worked in the area, I made it a point to visit as often as possible. Laïa is a hidden gem in the 11th arrondissement of Paris. It is situated in a historic building that once housed an old distillery, nestled at the bottom of a garden. Laïa specializes in Mediterranean cuisine, offering a green oasis where you can enjoy lunch on their veranda, bathed in natural light. The setting features terracotta-tiled floors, wood-fired cooking, and an atmosphere of conviviality and joy. Laïa is open from Monday to Saturday, 12 PM to midnight, and is located at 226 Boulevard Voltaire in the 11th arrondissement.
3. L’Eldorado
Nestled within the Eldorado Hotel, this restaurant boasts a lush, hidden terrace. It’s the perfect spot if you’re seeking an elegant dining experience near the Sacré Coeur and Montmartre. The Eldorado offers refined French cuisine in an urban garden and courtyard pavilion setting, featuring eclectic decor rich with 19th-century embellishments and post-war touches. Discover this gem at 18 Rue des Dames in the 17th arrondissement. Be sure to make a reservation to secure a table.
4. Griffon
Griffon is a hybrid place between a coffee shop, a bar and a restaurant with a beautiful terrace . It is a restauant for lunch, a coffee shop in the afternoon and a bar with tapas in the evening.
Concealed behind a large metal gate, within a historic cobblestone courtyard, this spot is perfect for vintage bibelot enthusiasts. At the Griffon, the decor features an array of decorative objects and second-hand furniture sourced from flea markets across France. Situated in the heart of the Marais in the 4th arrondissement, this verdant haven, adorned with plants, creates a serene atmosphere.
5. Les Petites Mains
Are you searching for a restaurant with one of the most stunning views of the Eiffel Tower in a garden-like setting? Look no further. Les Petites Mains offers classic Mediterranean dishes made with seasonal ingredients in a tranquil and relaxing environment. Located inside the Palais Galliera at 10 Avenue Pierre 1er de Serbie in the 16th arrondissement, Les Petites Mains is perfect for gourmet enthusiasts seeking high-end, quality dishes that cater to their refined tastes.
6. La Petite Halle
La Petite Halle offers wood-fired pizza, bistro dishes, and cocktails in a chic industrial setting. Moreover, what I particularly love about this restaurant is its dual function as a jazz club. Each week, local and international musicians come to showcase their talent. Directly across from the restaurant is a garden. A spacious and serene area where you can relax and enjoy the sun. A place where you can grab a coffee, a refreshing drink, or a homemade fruit juice.
Furthermore, in the garden, there is also a bar and a pétanque court. In addition, there are deckchairs, a ping-pong table entirely laid out to welcome visitors. Find this gem at 211 avenue Jean Jaurès in the 19th arrondissement. The garden is ideal for parents with children that are looking for a place to rest, eat and get a drink. Speaking of parents with children, you might like my Paris guide to the 19th arrondissment with children written specifically for you.
Wondering where to eat outside of Paris? Look no further than this restaurant below located West of Paris in the upscale suburban city of Rueil-Malmaison.
Les Hamptons
Les Hamptons restaurant specializes in grilled meats and fish, offering rotisserie, barbecue, and plancha options. Their menu features fresh, high-quality products that change with the seasons, blending French cuisine with a creative New York twist. Despite their focus on meat and fish, Les Hamptons also offers vegetarian dishes. If this piques your interest, take a look at some photos of this beautiful restaurant. Feeling adventurous? Grab your Navigo pass and head to the suburb at 123 Rue du Colonel de Montbrison, 92500 Rueil-Malmaison. Be sure to book your table in advance.
To reach this gem, as stated above, you’ll need to venture outside the city. Take the suburban train RER A and exit at La Défense. From there, transfer to line L and get off at the Saint-Cloud train station. Then, take bus 467 and get off at Eglise de Buzenval (12 stops). The restaurant is just 300 meters from the bus stop. If you prefer not to take the bus, you can also opt for an Uber from the Saint-Cloud train station.
Final thoughts
Exploring these six beautiful terraces in Paris for lunch is an experience every traveler should savor. Each one offers a unique ambiance, from lush gardens and historic courtyards to vibrant industrial settings with stunning views. Whether you are indulging in exquisite French cuisine or savoring in international flavors, these terraces provide the perfect break for a memorable lunch or dining experience. They capture the essence of Parisian charm and hospitality, making them essential stops for travelers looking to immerse themselves in Paris’rich culinary dining scene.
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