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If you’re after an oh-so-French dining experience, you can’t do much better than a meal at one of Paris’s historic bouillons. These spacious, authentic, and budget-friendly restaurants serve up simple but delicious French dishes in beautiful settings.
Although originally working class lunch spots, today, bouillons are loved by hip Parisians and tourists in-the-know for both their hearty meals and Belle Époque décor.
Beautiful Belle Époque interiors of Bouillon Julien. Photo by Renata Haidle.The first bouillons appeared in Paris back in 1855, when a butcher by the name of Pierre Louis Duval came up with a clever and innovative restaurant concept. To quickly and cheaply serve quality meals to the masses of blue-collar workers in the city center, his restaurants had just item on the menu: a dish of meat and a broth, or ‘bouillon’.
It was a recipe for success, and by 1900, there were nearly 250 bouillons in Paris.
Looking for unique culinary experiences in Paris? Discover our offering of authentic gastronomic activities in the City of Light.
Photo © Bouillon ChartierToday, Paris’s bouillons offer many more options on their menus, but the cuisine remains as straightforward and satisfying as it was at the turn of the 19th century. They’re the perfect place to sample no-frills French fare like marrow bones, egg mayonnaise, blanquette de veau (a white veal stew), flank steak and french fries, or of course, bouillon.
And all without breaking the bank! At most bouillons, you can enjoy a full meal (coffee and glass of wine included) for less than 20€! Bon appétit !
The Best of Paris’s Historic Bouillons
- Bouillon Chartier – 7 Rue du Faubourg-Montmartre, 75009 Paris
- Bouillon Chartier – 59 Boulevard du Montparnasse, 75006 Paris
- Bouillon Pigalle – 22 Boulevard de Clichy, 75018 Paris
- Bouillon Julien – 16 Rue du Faubourg-Saint-Denis, 75010 Paris
- Bouillon Racine – 3 Rue Racine, 75006 Paris
Hungry for more authentic French food? These gastronomic experiences in Paris give you a taste of pastries, caviar, and more.
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Origins of Paris Historical TourEnjoy a small-group historical walking tour in the streets of the Montagne Sainte Genevieve down to the river. -
Pastry Tour of Le MaraisLe Marais is arguably the hippest neighborhood in Paris. While some may say that there are too many fashionistas, bobos, and tourists in the area, the charming cobblestone streets and vibrant atmosphere just can’t be beat. But Le Marais isn’t just about appearances. Local guides Nikki and Frederi…
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Discover the Goutte d’OrDiscover a side of Paris that most tourists never see. Frederic of TheWaysBeyond takes you on a walking tour you of his old neighborhood, La Goutte d’Or, one of Paris’s most authentic multi-cultural melting pots. Here, Parisians of dozens of different nationalities come together to share their tr…
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Explore the Bastille NeighborhoodFollow Frederic and Nikki of TheWaysBeyond down the small streets of the Quinze-Vingts, an often-overlooked part of the Bastille neighborhood that’s as interesting as its oddly arithmetic name — quinze-vingts translates to fifteen twenties, or 15 x 20.
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French Caviar TastingThe caviar you are about to discover is produced in the Dordogne region to the rhythms of the seasons and the life of sturgeons. This product of excellence, based on the valorization of a unique land and on innovative production techniques, is the reflection of impeccable standards. Research inno…
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Walk Through History in Le MaraisFollow local guides Frederic and Nikki of TheWaysBeyond through the city squares and alleyways of Le Marais as you retrace the history of this iconic Parisian neighborhood. If many today consider Le Marais a must-see on any trip to Paris, it wasn’t always that way. In fact, in the early 20th cent…
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Discover a Greener Side of ParisLet locals Frederic and Nikki of TheWaysBeyond guide you through the small streets off the Canal Saint-Martin and introduce you to some of the most exciting actors and addresses on Paris’s eco-conscious scene. The Canal Saint Martin neighborhood has always attracted an eclectic crowd, …
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Stroll Through 19th-Century ParisStep back in time and into the Paris of the 19th century. Learn how the architecture, innovations, and politics of the time shaped the city as you walk its charming streets, explore its covered passages, and shop in one of the world’s first department stores — just as Parisians did then! A…
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See the Sights Along the SeineSpend a leisurely morning like a true Parisian! Your local guide Sophie will meet you for a sightseeing stroll along the Seine, telling you tales of Paris past as you make your way east to explore a historic area before ending at a popular fresh food market just in time for lunch!
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Wine & Cheese PairingThis experience is an excellent opportunity for people who want to have a light introduction to French wines and discover how to pair them perfectly with French cheeses. You’ll get all the basic information you need to know about wine in France, including proper terminology, proper wine ta…
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