Best Lunch Spots in Saint Germain

It’s tough to get a table in this tiny bistro, but it’s absolutely worth the effort! A must for any foodie in Paris, Chef Yves Camdeborde (the father of modern bistronomy) is in the kitchen, serving traditional, quality French cuisine in the heart of Saint Germain. There’s a set menu for lunch and on weekends, with a choice of 10 starters, 10 main dishes, and 10 desserts. For weekday dinners, you’ll find a unique menu which changes daily based on the fresh fish and produce available.

Ralph’s Café brings classic Americana to a dreamy Parisian courtyard. Nestled inside Ralph Lauren’s Saint-Germain mansion, it’s all about timeless style, cozy leather booths, and comforting favorites like crab cakes and cheesecake. A bit pricey, sure — but perfect for a romantic lunch or a nostalgic holiday meal.

Café Varenne feels like a Paris of long ago thanks in large part to the homemade food, friendly service, and classic Parisian décor. This quintessential café is a local staple, bustling with life and energy, where waiters serve with smiles amidst vintage signs and a bar filled with beautiful bottles. Offering a range of delicious dishes and an excellent wine selection, it’s the perfect spot for a coffee, lunch, or a glass of wine on the terrace​.

A favorite special occasion spot, this luxury hotel on the Left Bank avoids being pretentious thanks to its understated, light & bright décor. The hotel’s beautiful Bar Joséphine makes a wonderful spot for a chic cocktail with friends or romantic date night drinks. For an elegant but informal meal, dine on creative French dishes under the extraordinary glass ceiling in the gastronomic restaurant Le Saint-Germain. Expect 26€ for cocktails and 120€ per person for a full meal. Photo Landen Kerr.

With an emphasis on fresh, locally-grown ingredients, Semilla serves a creative and modern bistro cuisine. The short menu of this chic but casual restaurant changes according to seasonal supplies but always proposes traditional (and delicious) product-centered dishes (whiting, cuttlefish, calf sweetbread, perfect egg, leg of lamb). A selection of natural wines is offered as well. We recommend making a reservation a few days in advance.

As you might guess, this small restaurant serves up eggs in every way imaginable. Elegant & simple, but most importantly, delicious, this is a great little brunch spot. But do be warned, this ‘petit’ place gets busy, especially on the weekends, so don’t be surprised if you have to wait in line.