As gourmets of the capital, it’s hard to miss the madness of Parisian bouillons. A major part of the Parisian culinary tradition, the bistrots bistros have been on a roll for some years now. Nuggets of the Art Nouveaumovement, people flock here both for the typical brasserie cuisine and for the decor, reminiscent of the Paris of yesteryear. Today, since the choice can be a daunting one, let us guide you through the capital’s best bouillons.
Le Petit Bouillon Pharamond
Historic, charming and downright good, Pharamond ticks all the boxes of the broth we like to keep jealously in our little address book. Not the best known, but certainly one of the best, the Petit Bouillon Pharamond has been established in the heart of Paris since 1832! In its busy Belle-Époque setting, you can indulge in the best of traditional Parisian cuisine, as well as specialties from elsewhere, such as the famous Caen-style tripe.
Petit Bouillon Pharamond – 24, rue de la Grande Truanderie, 75001
Le Bouillon Pigalle
Often cited in discussions about the coolest the capital’s coolest restaurants bouillon Pigalle is also one of those that sells out every night. Sublimated by a pleasant touch of modernity, it does not betray the characteristics of the traditional broth. On the menu, blanquette, roast veal, coquillettes au bouillon and all the comforting dishes of bistro cuisine at mini prices. And for the record, every year the establishment hosts the prestigious World Mayo Egg Championship!
Bouillon Pigalle – 22, boulevard de Clichy, 75018
Le Bouillon Julien
See this post on Instagram
“Here, everything is beautiful, good and inexpensive these were the words of Édouard Fournier, founder of Bouillon Julien, when he described his restaurant in 1906. Today, the tradition lives on in this historic building, and dishes continue to be served daily under the majestic stained-glass windows. Édith Piaf‘s favorite restaurant could also become one of yours!
Bouillon Julien, 16, rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis, 75010
Le Bouillon Chartier
It’s hard to make a selection of the capital’s best bouillons without mentioning Chartier. Here, it is estimated that over 50 million meals have been served since the institution was founded in 1896. Veal Marengo, petit salé or Alsatian sauerkraut: here, too, you can sample all the most emblematic dishes of French culture.
Bouillon Chartier – 7, rue du Faubourg Montmartre, 75009
Le Bouillon Racine
See this post on Instagram
Less well known than its counterparts in Paris, Bouillon Racine has a rather singular history. Initially frequented by the truly modest, it later enjoyed renewed popularity with the more affluent classes before undergoing a major renovation in 1996. Today, its absolutely sumptuous setting attracts gourmets from all horizons to come and immerse themselves in the Paris of yesteryear. To be tested soon!
Bouillon Racine – 3, rue Racine, 75006
Le Bouillon République
See this post on Instagram
The latest addition to the family, the Bouillon République will open in September 2021 on Boulevard du Temple. Since then, this veritable hive of activity has served 400 diners at lunchtime and dinnertime in its huge, high-ceilinged halls. The little brother of Bouillon Pigalle, it offers everything that made the first address such a success: delicious traditional recipes at low prices.
Bouillon République – 39, boulevard du Temple
Le Petit Bouillon Vavin
Among the lesser-known establishments in this selection is Petit Bouillon Vavin, with its small, pleasant terrace for all occasions. Here, special attention is paid to 100% homemade, and you can feel it right away on the plate! Knife sausage, crayfish linguine or marrow bones: everything is fresh, everything is delicious, everything is inexpensive!
Petit Bouillon Vavin – 119, boulevard du Montparnasse, 75006