May 2026 Restaurant Buzz: Where to Eat in Paris

“Cooking is multisensory. It’s made for the eyes, the mouth, the nose, the ear, the soul. No other art is as complex.” - Pierre Gagnaire

Printemps à Paris is not just a visual feast – it’s when the city’s heartbeat quickens. The rues echo to the sound of music festivals, open-air performances, and buzzing café terraces. Museums and galleries unveil new exhibitions, inviting us to take in the rich tapestry of art, gastronomy and history. Here are some seductive suggestions for Spring wining and dining in our favorite city.  

The Ritz Paris 

Behind the majestic façade of Place Vendôme, “Le Grand Jardin” (1,600 square meters) is one of the city’s best-kept secrets. For the warmer months, the Ritz Bar is popping up in this oasis. Romain de Courcy, the hotel’s director of mixology, takes the senses on a journey via his exciting creations and gustatory signatures (from 30 euros). “Discover Jardins du Monde aromas of lavender, coconut, neroli, or elderflower evoking the ambiance, via Kerala, continue from Casablanca to Veracruz, by way of Réunion Island, England, Provence, Corsica. With or without alcohol, these creations are mixed using natural essences and extracts sourced exclusively from artisans in Grasse,” he explains.

There’s a fabulous choice of classic cocktails such as Saint-Germain Spritz, Negroni, Americano, and Dry Martini, and champagnes and wines by the glass. On Friday and Saturday, a binchotan-style barbecue features delicately grilled skewers, falafels and mushrooms, marinated chicken and spring onions, and prawn and lobster keftas.  

DETAILS

Until September 12th, 2026
Cocktails (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and canapés from 3 pm
Binchotan BBQ Le Grand Garden – Friday and Saturday from 5:30 pm
And put on the Ritz with the “starry, starry nights” festival on the 13th, 14th and 15th June.

15, place Vendôme, 1st
Metro: Concorde/Tuileries
Tel: +33 (0)1 43 16 30 30

 

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Le Rouge Suffren  

Red’s the signature color at this convivial address that’s situated steps from the Eiffel Tower. It’s divided into two areas: the wine and cocktail bar, structured by an impressive Wine Cellar, and Le Steakhouse. From the open kitchen salivate at the produce and appreciate the craftsmanship (carving/cooking/cutting). Le Rouge Suffren is dedicated to Aveyron meats, carefully chosen by owners Pierre-Jean Borrel and Vincent Bonnenfant (one from Lozère, the other from Aveyron). Heading the kitchen is Casablanca-born Yahya El Azaar, whose CV takes in La Dame de Pic (Anne-Sophie Pic), L’Abysse (Yannick Alléno), L’Oiseau Blanc (David Bizet, The Peninsula), and Madame Brasserie (Thierry Marx).

Meat naturally reigns supreme. The flame reveals its power, while rich sauces and just highlight its depth. Among signature dishes, the beef rib holds a special place: served from the trolley, carved tableside, it embodies the spirit of the house, a blend of generosity and precision.  

And the menu also knows how to have fun: try the generous burger, garnished with heritage vegetables, and don’t skip dessert. The delicious options include rum baba, chocolate mousse, mille-feuille, crème brûlée, roast pineapple and ice cream, ice creams and sorbets.

DETAILS

38 ave de Suffren, 15th
Tel: +33 (0)9 86 16 63 64
Metro: Ségur
Open 7/7 Lunch & Dinner
Average spend €40-€80 + wine
Terrace pour les beaux jours!

Le Grand Restaurant – Jean-François Piège 

Discover/rediscover the 10 legendary dishes served at Le Grand Restaurant. “From Monday to Friday, we’re bringing to life the legendary plats of French cuisine, recipes etched in culinary history,” explains the always enthusiastic and convivial Piège. “Following La Poulette de Bresse demi-deuil (Bresse Chicken in Half-Mourning), it’s now the turn of Vol-au-vent à la Nesle (Vol-au-vent with Nesle Sauce) from Cuisine Bourgeoise’s Antonin Carême.”

Celebrating its 10th anniversary with these legendary dishes, Le Grand Restaurant affirms “that gastronomic modernity cannot exist without memory.” Piège insists that “cuisine, when it truly resonates, transcends its era to enter another, eternal time: the time of emotion.” Add 800 wine references and La Tour de France of cheeses and you’ve found the perfect address.

DETAILS 

Dinner Monday-Saturday. Lunch Thursday-Friday.
7, rue d’Aguesseau, 8th
Tel: +33 (0)1 53 05 00 00
Metro: Concorde/Madeleine

Le Victor Hugo 

Located on Place Victor Hugo, Brasserie Victor Hugo is so much more than a restaurant; it’s a vibrant social hub, open from morning until the early hours. A true institution in the 16th arrondissement, it embodies a warm and contemporary vision of the Parisian brasserie, blending French gastronomy with a dynamic atmosphere.

In Paris, brunch has become a way of life. And at BVH your festive and family-friendly French brunch awaits on Sunday from noon to 4 pm. The generous buffet features classic favorites: pastries and breads, seafood (depending on availability), traditional hot dishes, cheeses, charcuterie, and indulgent desserts. Special attention for children, from age 3 and up (€34) with fun activities such as face painting, creative workshops, shows, and games. Genial ! 

DETAILS

4, place Victor Hugo, 16th
Tel: +33 (0)1 42 73 30 43
Terrace
Metro: Victor Hugo

Avant-Comptoir du Grouin 

While waiting for your TGV at Gare du Nord, check out this fun address nearby. With tatty warehouse vibes, the former “Pointe du Grouin” by Thierry Breton has been taken over by Julien Camdeborde, Yves Camdeborde’s nephew. It serves southwest French bistro cuisine, specifically pork dishes (“grouin” is a pig’s snout) and natural wines. It’s a family affair! You know, and love, Camdeborde, the creator of L’Avant-Comptoir (three addresses in the Latin Quarter). 

Looking at the menu, you’re spoiled for choice. There are nearly 50 options, including pork with ears, crispy snout, belly, sausage, or Ibaiana rib for two (€64) not to mention the daily specials (served from noon to 3 pm). The good news is there are plenty of organic vegetables: artichokes vinaigrette, leeks with nori in sweet and sour sauce, cabbage with labneh. Finish with the irresistible chocolate mousse drizzled with olive oil. For sunny days, there’s a delightful little terrace in the pedestrian zone.

DETAILS

8, rue Belzunce, 10th
No reservations necessary – or taken. Open 7/7
Metro: Gare du Nord
Average Spend €30-€50

Le Patio du Vendôme 

Here’s a delightful discovery: this chic brasserie is located within Maison Albar Hotel – Le Vendôme, close to Opéra Garnier and Place Vendôme. It offers a contemporary French dining experience, featuring seasonal cuisine prepped with carefully selected ingredients. Opening onto a peaceful inner garden, Le Patio offers an intimate and welcoming atmosphere, ideal for a business lunch, romantic dinner or me-time moments with friends. Soft lighting, elegant décor and attentive service contribute to a relaxed and sophisticated dining experience.  

DETAILS

7, rue Helder, 9th
Tel: +33 (0)6 60 57 08 49
Metro: Opera
Terrace

Diary Date: Taste of Paris 10th Anniversary 

From May 21st-24th at Le Grand Palais. This major culinary event brings together 80+ top chefs including Christian Le Squer, Stephanie Le Quellec, Michel Roth, Thierry Marx, and Nina Metayer. Check out top restos and exciting young talent. There’s four days of tastings, workshops and cooking demonstrations waiting to inspire you. 

Terrance Your American Friend in Paris 

“As an adolescent in Brooklyn I was known as the ‘white’ Johnny Mathis as I crooned Chances Are. In Paris I’m just, Térrance! And, just as Jack Daniel’s Black soothed Sinatra’s Baritone pipes, my tenor pipes acquire character with a little single malt,” Terrance confides to BP.

Catch Terrance singing Friday, May 8th from 7:30 pm (€20) at Club Madison:

143 Boulevard Saint Germain des Prés, 6th 
Metro: Mabillon/Saint Germain des Prés
Tel: +33 (0)6 60 57 08 49