As some of you probably know, I have a podcast called Romancing in Paris. Each episode visits a unique romantic place in Paris, including parks, museums, hidden spots and restaurants. In my latest episode on the 6th district I decided to group together what I thought were the most romantic historic restaurants in this Paris arrondissement because there were a good number of them! I’d already did a podcast episode just on Laperrouse (which you can listen to here) so I thought I would gather together the others — all of which are over 100 years old! A brief summary is included below as a teaser… but I recommend you listen to the podcast episode for full details (available at this link). Bon appetit!
Le Procope
13 Rue de l’Ancienne Comédie, 75006 / website
Paris’s oldest café, today Le Procope is more of a restaurant. Opened in 1686 as one of the first venues in the city serving coffee, it became a popular meeting point of Left Bank philosophers, writers and revolutionaries, who are honored throughout the restaurant. One comes here for the history, less for the food. Listen to the podcast for more info.
Le Polidor
41 Rue Monsieur le Prince, 75006 / website
This old-school establishment is a good option for romantics on a budget. First opened in 1845 as a cheese store and restaurant, in the 20th century the restaurant’s location in the heart of literary Paris made it popular with both French and foreign writers … and was the setting for a movie. Listen to the podcast for the full scoop!
Le Bouillon Chartier Montparnasse
59 Bd du Montparnasse, 75006 / website
This historic bouillon is hands down the best bargain on this list. First opened in 1858, it was purchased by Bouillon Magnet Edouard Chartier in 1903, who had it redecorated in the Art Nouveau style. Expect curvaceous mirrors, floral motif tiles and glamorous light fixtures, you’d think you’re in a super expensive restaurant… but you can get a 3-course meal with wine for 20-25 euros per person. Listen to the podcast for full details.
Joséphine, Chez Dumonet
117 Rue du Cherche-Midi, 75006 / website
Dating back to 1898, this is a great option if you’re looking for a beautiful classic bistro. More sophisticated than the Polidor (and therefore more expensive) it has a tin ceiling, dark wood paneling, antique mirrors and white table-clothed tables. The menu features good quality classic dishes like Boeuf Bourguignon and Coq au Vin. Listen to the podcast for further information.
Le Vagenende
142 Bd Saint-Germain, 75006 / website
This is a lesser known gem right in the heart of the Saint-Germain area. Once owned by the famed Chartier Brothers, it also has a gorgeous Art Nouveau decor and is a classified historic site. It’s likely the poshest address on the list, but still not too expensive. Listen to the podcast to learn a few surprises about its history!
le Bouillon Racine
3 Rue Racine, 75006 / website
After the Bouillon Chartier Montparnasse, I think this is the second most beautiful restaurant on the list. Also once owned by the Chartier Brothers, this enchanting restaurant from 1906 is on a quiet side street near the Luxembourg Gardens, Its stunning decor features large mirrors in the pale green frames, lovely tiles and even Art Nouveau inspired chairs. It’s menu is more modern and thus is a good option if you’re looking for a change from the classics. It also has some surprising aspects to its history, so tune into the podcast to find out!
