Paris is renowned for its fine dining, but it’s also home to an incredible variety of casual dining spots where you can enjoy high-quality French cuisine without the formality. From cozy bistros to bustling brasseries, these restaurants offer delicious meals in relaxed settings. Here are the best casual dining restaurants to visit in Paris for 2024.
1. Le Comptoir du Relais – Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Located in the heart of the Left Bank, Le Comptoir du Relais is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. This charming bistro, run by Chef Yves Camdeborde, offers a mix of classic French dishes with a modern twist. The daily changing menu features dishes like confit de canard and terrine de foie gras, served in a relaxed and lively atmosphere.
Signature Dish: Confit de Canard
Location: 9 Carrefour de l'Odéon, Paris
Website: N/A
2. Café Constant – 7th Arrondissement
Owned by Chef Christian Constant, Café Constant is a welcoming bistro just a short walk from the Eiffel Tower. The restaurant serves traditional French cuisine with seasonal ingredients, offering dishes like steak frites, poached eggs with mushrooms, and fresh seafood. With its unpretentious vibe and excellent food, Café Constant is a must-visit for casual dining in Paris.
Signature Dish: Steak Frites
Location: 139 Rue Saint-Dominique, Paris
Website: Café Constant
3. Les Cocottes – Eiffel Tower Area
Another gem from Christian Constant, Les Cocottes specializes in serving dishes in cast-iron cocottes (small casserole pots), allowing flavors to blend and intensify. The menu features hearty French classics like lamb stew, cod with aioli, and roasted chicken. The bright, contemporary setting makes it a perfect spot for a casual yet satisfying meal.
Signature Dish: Lamb Stew
Location: 135 Rue Saint-Dominique, Paris
Website: Les Cocottes
4. Chez Janou – Le Marais
For a taste of Provençal cuisine, Chez Janou in Le Marais is a fantastic casual dining option. This lively bistro is famous for its generous portions and laid-back vibe. The menu offers a variety of southern French specialties, such as ratatouille, grilled meats, and an extensive selection of pastis. The warm atmosphere and rustic decor make it a local favorite.
Signature Dish: Ratatouille
Location: 2 Rue Roger Verlomme, Paris
Website: Chez Janou
5. L’Avant Comptoir – Odéon
Part wine bar, part tapas spot, L’Avant Comptoir is a casual eatery in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés area, known for its creative small plates. The menu includes a wide range of French tapas, from foie gras sandwiches to truffle ham croquettes, all designed for sharing. With its bustling atmosphere and top-notch food, this standing-room-only spot is a fun and informal way to enjoy French cuisine.
Signature Dish: Truffle Ham Croquettes
Location: 3 Carrefour de l'Odéon, Paris
Website: N/A
6. Buvette – Pigalle
Buvette offers a slice of Parisian café culture with a menu inspired by French bistro classics. This cozy and stylish spot serves up a selection of small plates like croque monsieur, tarte tatin, and charcuterie boards. The friendly service and vintage decor make Buvette a perfect choice for a relaxed meal in the vibrant Pigalle neighborhood.
Signature Dish: Croque Monsieur
Location: 28 Rue Henry Monnier, Paris
Website: Buvette Paris
7. La Mascotte – Montmartre
A true Montmartre institution, La Mascotte is a bustling brasserie known for its seafood and oysters. The casual dining experience here is all about fresh ingredients and authentic French fare. Dishes like moules marinières (mussels in white wine) and steak tartare are served in a lively, welcoming setting, perfect for those looking to experience traditional French cuisine in a relaxed environment.
Signature Dish: Moules Marinières
Location: 52 Rue des Abbesses, Paris
Website: La Mascotte
Conclusion
Paris’s casual dining scene offers a wonderful opportunity to experience authentic French cuisine without the formalities of fine dining. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy meal at Café Constant or sharing small plates at L’Avant Comptoir, these top casual dining spots in Paris promise a memorable and delicious experience. Make sure to add these restaurants to your list when exploring the City of Light!
