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Have you heard of the Parisian bouillon restaurants or bouillons parisiens and are now wondering what all the buzz is about? Then read on, because I will tell you everything you need to know to enjoy this authentic Parisian dining experience.
So, let me introduce you to a hidden gem of the Parisian culinary scene: Bouillon restaurants. These charming and affordable eateries are a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic taste of traditional French cuisine without breaking the bank.
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From steaming bowls of hearty soups to succulent meat dishes and mouthwatering desserts, Bouillon restaurants have it all. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a gastronomic adventure through the best Bouillon spots in Paris, ensuring you never go hungry during your stay in the City of Lights.
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History Facts: What are the Bouillons of Paris?
So for the history buffs, let’s take a stroll down memory lane and explore the fascinating story of Bouillon restaurants in Paris. It all began back in 1854 when a butcher opened the first Bouillon in the heart of the city.
Said butcher was Pierre Louis Duval. He usually provided the Parisian upper class with the finest pieces of meat but found himself often with leftovers and less favorable cuts. Long story short, he started to use them to cook a broth, bouillon in French, that he sold together with cooked meat.
The first Duval Bouillon was located near the big market at Les Halles in the center of Paris. So, Duval catered primarily to workers, who loved the cheap, yet satisfying nourishing broth accompanied by a piece of meat. Most of them lived in simple accommodations and had no chance to cook anyway.
The concept quickly caught on, and by the year 1900, over 250 Bouillon restaurants dotted the Parisian culinary landscape, making it the first-ever chain of restaurants.
What made Bouillons truly special was their commitment to providing affordable dining options for the working class and the less fortunate. During their heyday, which coincided with the flourishing Art Nouveau era and the grandeur of World Fairs, many Bouillons boasted stunning designs with intricately carved woodwork and vibrant painted glass.
As time went on, the menus at Bouillon restaurants evolved to incorporate a wider range of culinary delights. French classics like pot-au-feu, boudin noir, and boeuf bourguignon found their place alongside delectable desserts such as Mousse au Chocolat and Baba au Rhum. It was a genius concept: opulent interiors thanks to Art Nouveau design paired with affordable, mouthwatering dishes that appealed to the masses.
The end of the Bouillon restaurants: Paris moved to the Brasseries
However, the onset of World War I marked a significant turning point for Bouillon restaurants. With the changing times, they fell out of favor, giving way to the rise of trendy Parisian brasseries. Many Bouillons closed their doors, and their popularity waned.
There were times when only the Bouillon Chartier was left to serve the french classics.
But guess what? In recent years, Bouillons have been making a comeback! The concept of offering inexpensive meals in a lavish setting still resonates with locals and visitors alike. It’s the perfect blend of affordability and elegance that captures the spirit of Paris.
So, if you’re in the mood for a taste of history and an affordable feast, don’t miss out on experiencing the revived charm of Bouillon restaurants in the City of Lights.
What kind of dishes are served in a Parisian Bouillon
When it comes to the delectable dishes served in Bouillons across Paris, you are in for a treat. But be aware that Bouillons in Paris are nothing like fine dining. It’s French down-to-earth home cooking par excellence.
However, these restaurants offer the perfect opportunity to savor traditional French cuisine at a fraction of the price you would pay elsewhere. Even though each Bouillon has their own angle, many dishes are so classic, that they are on every Bouillon menu.
A few traditional starters you find on the Menu of Bouillons in Paris:
- Meat terrine
- Onion soup
- Herring with potatoes
- Hard-boiled eggs with mayonnaise (it’s basically the signature dish)
- Snails
- Foie Gras
The main Dishes could be these:
- Choucroute (a dish of cabbage and cooked meat from Alsace)
- minced meat
- Fried Chicken
- Boeuf Bourguignon
- Steak and fries
- Sausages like Boudin Noir (Blood sausage served with apples)
- or some fish dishes
and finally the Desserts:
- Cheese (in case you didn’t know, it’s a dessert in France!)
- Puff pastry with Crème
- Crème au Caramel
- Lemon Cake
- and of course: Mousse au Chocolat
Whether you’re craving savory or sweet, Bouillons have got you covered with an extensive menu of classic French dishes. Indulge in rich flavors and culinary traditions that have stood the test of time.
From the comforting warmth of vegetable broth to the luxurious delight of foie gras, these affordable eateries offer a wonderful opportunity to sample the best of traditional French cuisine. Especially if you are keen to eat in beautiful surrounding: the Bouillons in Paris are still decorated in the stunning Art Nouveau Designs. A treat for the eyes.
The most popular Bouillons in Paris
In recent years, Bouillon restaurants in Paris have experienced a resurgence in popularity. These culinary gems have become a hot trend, attracting a diverse crowd seeking authentic flavors and a touch of nostalgia. You can see that best in the queues that are forming in front of their doors at peak hours.
In the following, I will introduce you to the most popular Bouillon Restaurants Paris has to offer. But frankly, there aren’t that many more than the ones in this list of Paris Bouillons.
#1 Bouillon Julien
16 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis, 75010 Paris
Open 7/7 11:45 to midnight – reservations possible
Nestled in the heart of Paris, Bouillon Julien stands as one of the city’s most stunning and cherished Bouillons. This historic establishment, dating back to 1787, underwent a magnificent transformation in 1901 when it was adorned with a marvelous Art Nouveau interior, a style that was all the rage at the time.
Officially designated as a Bouillon in 1906, Bouillon Julien has since become a cherished icon of the Art Nouveau movement, captivating visitors with its breathtaking design.
Stepping into Bouillon Julien is like stepping back in time. Every intricate detail, from the ornate ironwork to the vibrant stained glass, exudes the elegance and charm of the Art Nouveau era. This architectural gem has managed to preserve its authentic beauty throughout the years and remains one of the best-preserved examples of this artistic style.
During its heyday, Bouillon Julien was a bustling hub of activity, frequented by both locals and famous figures such as the legendary Edith Piaf. Today, visitors can still revel in its timeless ambiance while indulging in delectable French cuisine.
In 2018, Bouillon Julien underwent a careful renovation, with the sole objective of preserving its authentic Art Nouveau style. The restoration efforts were meticulous, ensuring that every intricate detail was lovingly restored to its former glory.
For those seeking a truly enchanting dining experience that seamlessly blends history, architecture, and culinary delights, Bouillon Julien is an absolute must-visit. Immerse yourself in the splendor of the Art Nouveau era as you savor exquisite dishes within the walls of this architectural masterpiece.
#2 Bouillon Pigalle
22 Bd de Clichy, 75018 Paris
Open 7/7 noon to midnight – reservations possible
Even though the Bouillon Pigalle is a relatively new Bouillon restaurant in Paris, it still captures the essence of 19th-century Bouillons. With a more modern design though. The menu boasts a delightful array of traditional dishes, all offered at incredibly affordable prices starting from as little as 10€ for mains.
The restaurant’s decor strikes a perfect balance between modernity and vintage charm, reflecting the spirit of the bouillons of yesteryears. Having opened its doors only in 2017, Bouillon Pigalle has quickly established itself as a popular dining destination. The bustling atmosphere, filled with lively chatter and a constant buzz, creates an energetic ambiance. However, if you seek a quiet and intimate dining experience, this may not be the ideal spot for you.
One of the signature dishes at Bouillon Pigalle is the classic egg with mayo, which has garnered acclaim far and wide. Well, egg with mayo might be on the menu of every Bouillon restaurant, but in fact, in 2019, the restaurant Bouillon Pigalle was honored with the prestigious title of the world’s best egg with mayo.
#3 Bouillon Chartier
7 rue du Faubourg Montmartre | 59, bd du Montparnasse | 5 rue du 8 mai 1945
Open 7/7 11:30 am to midnight – no reservations
Bouillon Chartier, an iconic establishment in Paris, first opened its doors in 1896 in the 9th arrondissement, near the Grand Boulevards and the Bourse of Paris. Stepping into this historic eatery is like stepping back in time to the Belle Époque era. The dining room exudes timeless elegance, featuring a grand high ceiling and a charming mezzanine area.
As is characteristic of bouillons, Bouillon Chartier serves up a selection of classic French dishes that have stood the test of time. The waiters, dressed in traditional attire, add to the old-school charm of the place. A unique aspect of the dining experience at Bouillon Chartier is that the bill is written directly on the disposable tablecloth, harking back to a simpler era.
Operating 365 days a year, Bouillon Chartier ensures that patrons can enjoy a meal any time of day until 23:30. Seating arrangements are based on availability, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself seated with strangers, adding a touch of conviviality to the experience.
Due to its enduring popularity, Bouillon Chartier has expanded to three locations across Paris, each carrying on the tradition of serving delectable French cuisine in a nostalgic atmosphere.
#4 Bouillon Racine
3 Rue Racine, 75006 Paris
Open 7/7 12 – 23h – reservations possible
Bouillon Racine, situated on Rue Racine in the 6th arrondissement of Paris, holds a special place in the Quartier Latin. Nestled near the Jardin du Luxembourg, it was originally part of the Bouillons Chartiers.
However, Bouillon Racine took on a different role in 1962 when it was acquired by the University of Paris. It served as the staff canteen until 1993 when it underwent a meticulous restoration to return it to its former glory as a Bouillon, both in terms of architecture and menu. However, the menu is classic but by far more elaborate (and expensive) than in the other Bouillon restaurants.
The restaurant exudes the enchanting charm of the Art Nouveau style, transporting guests to a bygone era. With its ornate decor and intricate detailing, Bouillon Racine showcases the beauty and elegance of this iconic art movement.
The menu features a selection of classic dishes, paying homage to the traditional roots of the bouillon concept. Diners can savor delicious cuisine while basking in the ambiance of this meticulously restored Art Nouveau gem in the heart of the Quartier Latin.
This being said the Bouillon Racine is not a classical Bouillon anymore and hence, not a place for cheap lunches. The French classics are rather served with a gastronomical twist here and have not much in common with the working calls meals they once were.
#5 Le Petit Bouillon Pharamond
24 Rue de la Grande Truanderie, 75001 Paris
Open 7/7 noon to midnight – no reservations
Le Petit Bouillon Pharamond, located in the heart of Paris at Les Halles, holds a rich history that dates back to 1832. Originally situated near the bustling food market known as the “belly of Paris,” this establishment was founded by a Normandy family with the aim of promoting regional dishes and introducing them to the Parisian crowd. Over the past century, the decor of the restaurant has remained largely unchanged, preserving its authentic charm.
Since 2019, Le Petit Bouillon Pharamond has operated as a bouillon, offering a selection of traditional French dishes at affordable prices. The menu still showcases many delectable dishes from Normandy, such as the Cassolette de Tripes à la mode de Caen. It’s a very “special” dish consisting mainly of offals.
The Bouillon Restaurant is open daily from 12 PM to midnight.
Tips for visiting Bouillon restaurants in Paris
Bouillon restaurants are a fantastic choice if you are looking for affordable French cuisine and are keen on exploring a very authentic side of Paris. To know what to expect, here are a few tips and things to know about eating in Bouillon in Paris.
Opening times of Bouillons in Paris
The Bouillon restaurants in Paris are open 7 days a week and have ongoing service. That’s rather exceptional in Paris because most restaurants take a break in the afternoon and are closed either Sunday or Monday. Not so the Bouillons.
The Paris Bouillons make no difference between lunch and dinner
While most restaurants have a lower priced and reduced lunch menu, not so the Bouillons in Paris. Here, the menu and the price are the same, no matter the time of the day or day of the week.
Some bouillon restaurants don’t take reservations
Traditionally, bouillon restaurants won’t accept reservations. You simply queue and wait until there’s a table free. But times are changing and some of the Parisian Bouillons let you reserve your spot in advance. You can do that very conveniently on their website.
But don’t hesitate to just pop in. Even if you find a queue at the doors, don’t worry. The turnover is very quick because the service is fast and tailored to people with little time at hand. quick turnover
Are bouillons for vegetarians?
French cuisine is everything but vegetarian friendly and so are sadly the bouillon restaurants. You find a few dishes on the menu that might as well work for vegetarians, but it’s mainly side dishes and desserts.
I’d say it’s still worth eating in a Bouillon, already due to the really unique flair. It’s an experience. But as a vegetarian, you likely won’t find your culinary happiness here.
