The sumptuous restaurants of Paris

A capital of gastronomy as well as elegance, Paris has probably the finest restaurants in France. Parisian restaurants offer not only fine cuisine but also exceptional surroundings in which to savour a lunch or dinner that will linger long in your memory. Here we recommend a superb restaurant or two located near the Parc Montsouris, a delightful part of the capital.

Prestigious establishments in Paris

What a pleasure it is to be able to sit down at a table on an inviting terrace and enjoy the sight of this vibrant city as it goes about its daily business, while enjoying a fine meal prepared with distinctively Parisian flair. Paris remains a city where gourmets will always find much to enjoy, whether that enjoyment takes place in a starred restaurant of international renown or in a lesser-known establishment that is quirky, intimate, friendly and full of character. If you can imagine yourself admiring the superb Parisian architecture on a sun-dappled terrace in August while savouring local and regional specialties, then read on.

Located in the 14th arrondissement in the proximity of Montparnasse and Denfert-Rochereau is Les Petites Sorcières, an essential address to note in your diary. Under the masterful guiding hand of the Belgian chef Ghislaine Arabian, the restaurant offers authentic cuisine with a special emphasis on Flemish-influenced dishes. The famous judge of the cooking show Top Chef, and already the proud holder of two Michelin stars, she develops sophisticated dishes served up in a typical Parisian bistro atmosphere to the great delight of all her customers. Belgian dishes celebrating the origins of Ghislaine Arabian are offered alongside the most famed dishes of French terroir, and also of southern cuisine. A warm and welcoming atmosphere and, of course, excellent food are also the hallmarks of the restaurant Mi Chemin, located not far from the Hotel Sophie Germain, which remains a privileged starting point in the heart of Montparnasse.

Delightful days and elegant evenings in the Parc Montsouris

Also within easy reach of our hotel in the 14th arrondissement is the Parc Montsouris, a green haven in the midst of Haussmann-era buildings and a bustling urban scene. Covering some 15 hectares between the Porte de Gentilly and the Porte d’Arcueil on the southern edge of Paris, this is one of the largest parks in the capital. Boasting an abundance of trees, plants and wildlife, including some rarities, and a multitude of bird species, Montsouris also features some remarkable buildings. Designed and laid out during the Second Empire, this former quarry houses the former Observatoire de la Marine, the Bureau des Longitudes and the Observatoire Météorologique du Palais du Bardo. Classified as historic monuments, these fine buildings can be admired even at night. Just like many of the other 136 Parisian parks and public gardens, the Parc Montsouris is available 24/7 throughout the summer for the enjoyment of residents and visitors alike.

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Learn more:
• Parc Montsouris
• Pictures about the Parc Montsouris
• 14th urban district (arrondissement)

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Picture copyright holder: Tourist Office Paris - Photographer Marc Bertrand

Hotel Sophie Germain, a charming 3* hotel on the left bank of Paris