Paris Dining Tips: Savvy Choices for Great Meals

Paris is famous for food, but the city can also feel confusing if you don’t know the basics. Below are simple tips that let you find tasty places, skip tourist traps, and feel comfortable at the table – whether you’re on a solo adventure or sharing a night with an escort.

Choosing the Right Restaurant

First, avoid the glare of big chains right in front of the Eiffel Tower. Walk a few blocks away and look for smaller bistros with locals inside. A steady stream of French speakers is a good sign that the food is authentic.

Check the opening hours. Many Paris restaurants close for a few hours in the afternoon and reopen for dinner. If you arrive at 2 p.m., you’ll likely find the kitchen shut. Plan lunch at 12 p.m. or dinner after 7 p.m. to get the best service.

Use a quick online lookup – type the restaurant name plus “avis” (reviews) into a search engine. A rating above 4 out of 5 usually means the place delivers on taste and service. Don’t forget to read a couple of recent comments; they often mention if the menu has changed or if a reservation is required.

If you’re booking for a date, ask your escort what cuisine they prefer. A shared preference for classic French dishes like coq au vin or a lighter Asian fusion meal can set a relaxed mood.

Table Manners and Conversation

When the server arrives, greet them with a polite "Bonjour" and a smile. It’s simple, shows respect, and often gets you better attention.

Keep your phone silent and on the table, not in your pocket. If you need to check something, excuse yourself briefly – that’s common courtesy and avoids breaking the flow of conversation.

Wine is a big part of the Paris dining experience. If you’re not sure what to choose, ask the sommelier for a recommendation that matches your meal. A glass of red Burgundy with steak or a crisp white from Loire with fish works well.

Ordering: start with a starter (entrée) if the menu offers one, then move to the main (plat principal). If the menu lists "menu du jour" (daily special), it’s usually the freshest and most reasonably priced option.

Conversation tip: talk about the food and the atmosphere rather than politics or heavy topics. Comment on the flavors, the presentation, or the view from the window. This keeps the mood light and enjoyable for both of you.

Finally, when you’re ready to pay, ask for the "l’addition". Splitting the bill is normal in Paris, but if it’s a special night, offering to cover the whole check can be a nice gesture – just do it politely.

With these straightforward tips, you’ll feel more confident navigating Paris’s dining scene. You’ll avoid common pitfalls, impress your companion, and get to enjoy the city’s amazing food without stress.