When visiting the Île de la Cité and the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, finding the right place to dine should be part of the magic, not a stressful, uncertain moment! As you explore the heart of Paris, you deserve more than a simple meal, but an experience that reflects the city’s elegance, history, and art de vivre (art of living). This curated selection of the restaurants near Notre Dame Cathedral Paris has something for everyone’s tastes, whether you want refined flavors, romantic ambiances, or our insider recommendations worthy of your time in the City of Light.
Paris to Versailles Private Tours is committed to guiding you toward the most exclusive, memorable culinary moments, or telling you the best place to try something new. After all, dining is as essential to French culture as art and architecture.
Table of Contents
- 1 Restaurants for Upscale Dining
- 2 Classic French Restaurants near Notre Dame Cathedral Paris
- 3 Crêperies & for Quick Bites near Notre Dame Cathedral
- 4 Dessert & Ice Cream Near Notre Dame Cathedral
- 5 FAQ: Restaurants near Notre Dame Cathedral Paris
- 6 Plan Your Dining in Paris and Visit to Notre Dame Cathedral today!
Restaurants for Upscale Dining
Elegant, refined, and unforgettable — these are the restaurants where you will savor Paris at its highest level. Here are our favorite luxury Michelin-starred experiences and romantic outings in the area surrounding Notre Dame. These are some of the most well known restaurants in the world, as Paris is considered a gastronomic capital.
Fine Dining and Michelin Star Restaurants close to Notre Dame
Indulge in the epitome of French culinary artistry. These establishments are perfect for a decadent lunch or elevated night out, especially if you wish to keep the feeling of exclusivity.
La Tour d'Argent
This Parisian institution claiming to date back to 1582 offers an exceptional view of Notre Dame and the Seine River. Their legendary wine cellar is home to more than 450,000 bottles, valued at over 30 million dollars. The duck dishes are their specialty, with each duck raised by the restaurant’s own farm and given a personal serial number. This option is perfect for clients who appreciate heritage and refinement and requires a well planned reservation.
Restaurant Guy Savoy at Monnaie de Paris
A short walk along the Seine from Notre Dame Cathedral, this three-Michelin-star sanctuary celebrates French excellence with signature elevated dishes and has been voted the Best Restaurant in the World eight times by the prestigious La Liste, a testament to its unparalleled gastronomic artistry. Dining here feels like entering a temple of gastronomy. This dining experience requires a reservation.
Baieta (Niçoise Cuisine)
Led by Chef Julia Sedefdjian, one of France’s youngest Michelin-starred chefs, this one-star spot brings the sunny flavors of the French Rivera to Paris. In Nicoise (the southern French city of Nice) dialect, a ‘baieta’ is a little kiss, and that captures this kitchen, a sophisticated yet warm experience.
Sola (Japanese–French Fusion)
This intimate Michelin-starred restaurant creatively blends Japanese precision and French refinement. A superb option for travelers eager to explore innovative haute cuisine in an elegant and historical wine cellar. Chef Kosuke Nabeta also does traditional Japanese ceramics, hosting workshops for interested guests.
Our Romantic Picks near Notre Dame Cathedral
Paris is known as the city of love, from dazzling spots like Sacre Cœur to the Eiffel Tower. Yet, few districts in Paris offer as many atmospheric, candlelit havens as the streets around Notre Dame. These restaurants are perfect for couples seeking intimacy and passion.
Plénitude – Cheval Blanc Paris
Are you looking to impress or celebrating a special occasion? Try this new gastronomic jewel with breathtaking Seine views. Found tucked away in one of the most luxurious palaces in Paris, this three star restaurant is a world-class choice with a carefully orchestrated tasting menu in a bright setting. Each of the 26 seats is the best in the house.
Bistro des Lettres
Dubbed one of the most romantic spots in Paris, this refined literary-inspired restaurant is ideal for a slow, romantic dinner just steps from Île Saint-Louis, giving traditional French cuisine with a charming twist. After your meal, you’re invited to write a handwritten letter on beautiful stationary with a fountain pen, to be sent to your chosen address one a year later.
Le Reminet
A charming, candlelit bistro that is just steps from Notre Dame, its vaulted stone cellar is the perfect setting for an unforgettable Parisian soir. This thirty year old establishment is specialized in Mediterranean influenced fare which is served amidst charming antique mirrors & glimmering chandeliers (perhaps a distant reference to the Hall of Mirrors at the Palace of Versailles)!
Classic French Restaurants near Notre Dame Cathedral Paris
For travelers seeking authenticity, history, and brasserie comfort, these iconic establishments offer the true taste of France.
Iconic Brasseries With Historic Parisian Charm
Step into the timeless Paris of writers, revolutionaries, and philosophers as you explore these classic brasseries and restaurants near Notre Dame Cathedral Paris, where history, tradition, and unmistakable French charm come together on every plate.
Le Procope (Perfect for Lunch)
As the oldest café in Paris (1686), it has been frequented by Voltaire, Rousseau, and Napoleon, as well as famous French-loving founding fathers Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson! Expect classic, comforting brasserie dishes served in an atmosphere steeped in intellectual history. A true delight!
Le Caveau du Palais
A discreet and elegant address nestled on Place Dauphine, one of the most enchanting and intimate squares in Paris. This refined bistro is adored by locals for its classic French dishes, seasonal ingredients, and charming terrace set beneath the trees. We particularly love the roasted meats, the homemade terrines, and the exceptional wine list.
Ideal for Families Looking for Traditional French Cuisine
Because traveling with loved ones should feel effortless and enjoyable, this section highlights the best family‑friendly restaurants near Notre Dame Cathedral Paris—places where comforting dishes, warm service, and authentic Parisian charm come together to welcome guests of all ages.
Le Petit Châtelet
Cozy, rustic, and irresistibly charming, this beloved spot is a true family favorite, especially after visiting Shakespeare & Co, right next door. With its exposed wooden beams, medieval-style façade, and intimate dining rooms, Le Petit Châtelet feels like stepping into an old Parisian tale. Families can appreciate the warm hospitality, the generous portions, and the classic French dishes such as gratin dauphinois, confit de canard, and perfectly grilled meats. The comforting cuisine makes it a safe and delightful choice for even the pickiest eaters.
Les Fous de l’Île
Located on Île Saint-Louis, the restaurant’s name, which translates to “The Madmen of the Island,” reflects its joyful personality: colorful decor, playful artwork, and a welcoming team who make families feel instantly at home. Here, you will find classic French comfort dishes prepared with sincerity and seasonal ingredients: slow-cooked meats, roasted poultry, velvety soups, and crispy potatoes that children adore. If you are looking for a casual yet quality-filled meal that still feels distinctly Parisian, Les Fous de l’Île is one of the neighborhood’s strongest recommendations for families.
Crêperies & for Quick Bites near Notre Dame Cathedral
Sometimes, you simply want something quick, delicious, and quintessentially Parisian, especially when exploring with children.
Too Many Crêperies near Notre Dame Cathedral!
While many crêperies in Paris can be touristy, these two near Notre Dame Cathedral stand out for best quality and price.
La Crème de Paris Notre-Dame
A chic and modern take on the traditional Parisian crêperie, La Crème de Paris Notre-Dame is far more elevated than the typical tourist-oriented options surrounding the cathedral. Known for its gourmet sweet and savory crêpes, this stylish spot uses high‑quality ingredients such as artisanal cheeses, farm‑fresh eggs, truffle oil, and Valrhona chocolate. It is a popular place, but we particularly recommend it for a quick yet refined bite if you want a place to sit down to enjoy crêpes.
Crêperie Genia (Notre Dame Location)
A quick, affordable, and delicious option without sacrificing quality, Crêperie Genia may look like a tourist trap but you would remember fondly long after your trip. What makes it special is not extravagance but honesty: warm service, fresh ingredients, and crepes made right in front of you with that unmistakable buttery aroma that fills the whole street. Nestled into the pedestrian only streets of the Latin Quarter, it’s perfect for a light lunch. It delivers a genuine Parisian snack, fast service, and the kind of simplicity that feels refreshing between richer culinary experiences.
Other Quick Bites for Families in Paris near Notre Dame Cathedral
When exploring the area with little ones or simply in need of something fast and delicious, this section highlights the best quick‑bite restaurants near Notre Dame Cathedral Paris. Perfect choices for wanderers seeking flavor, convenience, and a touch of Parisian charm without the wait.
Patate
This brand new hidden gem, just arrived in Paris a few months ago, but we expect it to stay for a long time! Their frites are cooked to order, so you will be receiving delicious hot fresh fries every time. What makes Patate stand out near Notre Dame is its perfect balance between speed, indulgence, and quality. It also uses vegetable oil, rather than traditional beef fat, because good fries should be all-inclusive! It’s the kind of spot where families can grab something satisfying and on-the-go. Who does not love fresh and crispy french fries?
Bo&Mie
One of several locations in Paris, this boulangerie/patisserie is a real crowd-pleaser for locals and tourists alike! Just up the street from the fountain of Saint Michel, it offers a wide array of classic pastries, sandwiches, and exceptional viennoiseries. An ideal stop for a fast yet delicious pause!
Dessert & Ice Cream Near Notre Dame Cathedral
Finally, end your exploration of the neighborhood with a sweet treat! You deserve it after all the walking and climbing, especially if you conquered the Bell Towers of Notre Dame!
Berthillon
Perhaps the most famous ice cream in Paris and for good reason! Since 1954, Berthillon has been delighting locals and connoisseurs from around the world with its artisanal, small‑batch creations made on-site. The house is renowned for its commitment to using only natural ingredients: fresh fruit purées, rich creams, and seasonal produce sourced with exceptional care. Located on Île Saint-Louis, just a short stroll from Notre Dame, it is an essential Parisian ritual to enjoy a scoop (or two!) while wandering the charming, historic streets of the island. On warm days, expect a line, but rest assured, the experience is worth every minute. Go with your guide on our Private Paris City Tour or after visiting Notre Dame!
Aux Merveilleux de Fred
This beloved institution is celebrated for its whipped‑cream–filled merveilleux pastries which are light, airy, and irresistibly addictive. This iconic pâtisserie is not just a local favorite: it is one of the most popular and widely adored sweet brands among the French. From Paris to Lille, its popularity is deeply rooted in French culture. Any Parisian will tell you that bringing a box of merveilleux to a dinner party is a guaranteed success. Located just steps from Notre Dame, this address is the perfect place to indulge in a dessert that the French genuinely love and proudly share.
FAQ: Restaurants near Notre Dame Cathedral Paris
One of the best upscale restaurants near Notre Dame Cathedral Paris is La Tour d’Argent, famous for its exceptional views of the cathedral and its historic fine‑dining experience.
Yes — Le Petit Châtelet and Les Fous de l’Île are two family‑friendly restaurants near Notre Dame Cathedral Paris, offering traditional French cuisine and warm service ideal for all ages.
For the best dessert experience among restaurants near Notre Dame Cathedral Paris, Berthillon on Île Saint‑Louis is the top recommendation, beloved for its artisanal ice cream.
Yes, several restaurants near Notre Dame Cathedral Paris offer vegetarian options. Sola and Baieta routinely adapt their menus to accommodate vegetarian guests. And Patate only uses vegetable oil to cook their fresh fries.
For upscale and romantic restaurants near Notre Dame Cathedral Paris, reservations are highly recommended. For casual eateries, walking in is usually possible.
Plan Your Dining in Paris and Visit to Notre Dame Cathedral today!
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