The best restaurants in Paris with a view
Her World editor-in-chief Elizabeth Lee’s picks for restaurants where the Parisian skyline might just rival your date
By Elise Wong -
Paris seduces the senses at every turn. Its world-class art, fashion, and history are only rivaled by the city’s skyline. For Elizabeth Lee, Her World’s editor-in-chief and a self-professed Paris devotee, the true magic lies in pairing exceptional cuisine with iconic views.
In her carefully curated selection, Elizabeth highlights spots where culinary craftsmanship meets visual spectacle, from rooftop terraces and glass domes to garden-facing terraces perfect for brunch. Whether you’re seeking romance, a chic rendezvous, or a view that wows, these picks are her personal recommendations for dining with a Parisian flair.
Kong – Pont Neuf View
“If you want dinner with drama, head to Kong,” Elizabeth says. “The Philippe Starck–designed glass rooftop – made famous by Sex and the City – gives you a glittering view of the Seine, and the vibe is as stylish as it gets.”
Perched above the Seine on Rue du Pont Neuf, Kong blends futuristic interiors with a panoramic view of Paris’s oldest bridge. The menu is a Franco-Japanese playground: start with yellowtail carpaccio in ponzu or spicy tuna tartare with avocado, then move on to miso black cod, lobster udon, or Wagyu beef with new-style bearnaise. Desserts are not to be skipped – Pierre Hermé’s 2000 Feuilles provides a decadent finish.
Elizabeth recommends, also, staying for a drink or two: “Drinks are just as strong a pull – try the Tokyo Spritz or Asian P*rn Star Martini.”
Kong is located at 1 Rue du Pont Neuf, 75001 Paris, France.
Girafe Restaurant – Eiffel Tower View
“Ask to be seated on the terrace and time your visit just right,” Elizabeth advises. “You’ll catch the Eiffel Tower sparkle under the moonlight – super romantic.”
At Trocedero – or, more accurately, the Palais de Chaillot – Girafe Restaurant presents arguably one of the most enviable views in Paris: the Eiffel Tower just steps away from your table. Order oysters or lobster linguine to start, then enjoy roasted cod with chorizo and clams or indulge in the truffle pasta, a perennial table favorite. For dessert, the mango-passionfruit pavlova is crisp, bright, and picture-perfect.
Terrace seating is ideal for capturing the tower at sunset, while midday visits provide a clear sky framed by the iconic structure. Smart casual attire is recommended for this relaxed yet elegant venue, and advance booking is strongly recommended for terrace tables, especially at peak sunset hours.
Girafe Restaurant is located at 1 Pl. du Trocadéro et du 11 Novembre, 75016 Paris, France.
Loulou – Jardin du Carrousel View
“LouLou feels like summer on a plate all year round,” Elizabeth says.
Tucked inside the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, Loulou offers a serene escape overlooking the Jardin du Carrousel. Its terrace is perfect for a sunny brunch or a leisurely dinner, surrounded by the greenery of the Louvre gardens.
The menu leans toward Italian-French flavors with a Parisian flair: truffle pizza is a signature must, while spaghetti pomodoro and zucchini flowers with stracciatella and pesto showcase a lighter side. Aubergine parmigiana is another standout for vegetable lovers.
For a truly special experience, secure a table on the terrace, where the morning and afternoon light and atmosphere make both your meal and your photos unforgettable. Loulou embraces a casual elegant dress code, and reservations are recommended. Arrive slightly before noon for brunch to enjoy the garden in soft morning light and avoid the midday crowd.
Loulou Paris is located at 107 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France.
Perruche – Rooftop Paris City View, Plus Eiffel Tower
Take it from the expert: “Perched above Printemps, Perruche is part Provençal daydream, part rooftop hotspot,” Elizabeth shares.
Rising above Boulevard Haussmann atop the Printemps department store, Perruche’s rooftop terrace offers sweeping city views and a distant glimpse of the Eiffel Tower.
Classic Provencal cuisine takes center stage: sea bass tartare with citrus, lamb chops with thyme, and prawns flambéed with pastis are Liz’s picks. Truffle tagliatelle and fried calamari are favorites among regulars. For dessert, don’t miss the nostalgic Tarte Tropézienne – a nostalgic classic.
Daytime dining is particularly striking, with sunlight bouncing across Parisian rooftops. Smart casual attire is recommended, and reservations are advised for both brunch and sunset service to secure optimal seating – the terrace can be breezy in spring, so request a table closer to the inner railing for shelter while maintaining the view.
Perruche is located at Printemps De L’Homme, 2 Rue du Havre 9ème étage, 75009 Paris, France.
ROOF & La Plume Rive Droite – Rooftop Paris City View
“La Plume brings a polished mix of Japanese and French flavors with one of the most panoramic rooftop views in Paris,” Elizabeth says.
Both housed atop the Hôtel Madame Rêve, ROOF and La Plume provide complementary experiences: ROOF serves cocktails on a rooftop terrace with panoramic city views, while La Plume offers refined dining with the same skyline.
Signature dishes include Wagyu tataki with black truffle ponzu, crispy avocado with lime and dashi, and shrimp tempura with chili mayo. For a richer experience, the lobster hotpot with yuzu bisque is unforgettable, while vegetarians can indulge in mushroom hotpot with truffle butter. Evening drinks are particularly magical as city lights sparkle across rooftops and landmarks like Saint-Eustache Church and the Panthéon.
Casual chic attire fits both terrace cocktails and dinner. Reservations are strongly recommended to secure a terrace table for dinner or sunset cocktails.
ROOF and La Plume Rive Droite are located at 43 Rue Étienne Marcel, 75001 Paris, France.
What is famous to eat in Paris?
Parisian cuisine is celebrated worldwide. Must-try dishes include escargots, steak frites, croissants, and even, simply, a baguette with various French cheeses. For a heartier meal, boeuf bourguignon or duck confit remain classics, best enjoyed in restaurants that pair the flavours with equally memorable views.
Where can I get the best views in Paris?
For panoramic cityscapes, consider Montparnasse Tower or rooftop terraces such as Perruche or Le Georges at the Centre Pompidou. These vantage points allow for sweeping views of the skyline, making the city’s architecture part of the meal.
Whether a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, these restaurants provide the perfect marriage of cuisine and spectacle. Reserve a table, and let Paris unfold before you with every bite.