Ah, the 12th arrondissement of Paris, with its Viaduc des Arts, its Marché d’Aligre and its splendid Musée des Arts Forains… In this lively, colorful arrondissement, it’s great to stroll and dine in the heart of some not-to-be-missed establishments. Looking for a good meal in the district? Discover our favorite restaurants in the 12th arrondissement of Paris– only the best!
The star: Restaurant Virtus
In Paris’s 12th arrondissement, gourmets flock to Virtus, which has been awarded a Michelin star. Vintage decor, lacquered wood bar counter… Curled up in the velvet of the banquettes, the refined ambience has everything to seduce. Heading up the Virtus restaurant is Chef Frédéric Lorimier, who has worked his way up from a number of 3-star establishments. Here, you can choose from several menus, in addition to à la carte dishes. The Escapade Gourmande menu (in 7 acts), the Échappée Belle menu (in 5 acts), the Plaisirs d’Automne menu (in 3 or 4 acts) – there’s something for every taste and desire. Rue de Cotte, come and dine in this mythical address of Parisian gastronomy.
Restaurant Virtus, 29 rue de Cotte, Paris 12
Our favorite: Restaurant Le Square Trousseau
Nestled in the Aligre district, Le Square Trousseau takes its name from the pretty park just across the street. With its Art Deco frontage, ceiling moldings and marble mosaic floor, Le Square Trousseau is the perfect setting for dinner. Since 1907, this 12th arrondissement restaurant has been home to a host of celebrities, including Jean Gabin and Mistinguett. Even today, it’s not uncommon to see celebrities seated here. The menu features French specialties, all perfectly executed. When it comes to flavors and product quality, Square Trousseau is second to none. In fact, it’s one of the best truffle croque-monsieur in Paris. Another added value: the restaurant features a private dining room, with a table seating up to 16 guests. The perfect opportunity to treat yourself to an intimate lunch or dinner for a special occasion.
Restaurant Le Square Trousseau, 1 rue Antoine Vollon, Paris 12
The most traditional: Restaurant Le Quincy
Here’s another restaurant in the 12th arrondissement spotted by the famous Michelin Guide: Le Quincy! If you like traditional cuisine and warm atmospheres, you’re in for a treat! Nestled between Bastille and Gare de Lyon, Le Quincy is a veritable institution in the neighborhood. The owner of this country inn? Michel Bosshard, aka Boboss, has been at the helm of this authentic establishment for over 50 years. Here, generosity is the order of the day, a fact that’s not lost on those with big appetites. As the Michelin Guide attests, lovers of good food can feast on the generous and tasty specialities of Berry and Ardèche. A Parisian restaurant that gives pride of place to old-fashioned French cuisine!
Restaurant Quincy, 28 avenue Ledru-Rollin, Paris 12
The meatiest: “Les Provinces – Boucherie étable à manger
Les Provinces is proud to be Paris’s first butcher’s “stable à manger”! Just a stone’s throw from the Marché d’Aligre, you’ve got a choice: buy your meat and go, or sit down and enjoy a feast. With the meat stall as a backdrop, starters include a crispy pig’s trotter, a board of cochonnaille or terrines. For the main course, you’ll be able to enjoy beef, veal or lamb mitts, entrecôtes and ribs, among other fine cuts. In this convivial atmosphere, meat-lovers can even choose their cuts from the display case before enjoying them on the spot, over a glass of fine wine.
Les Provinces (Boucherie-étable à manger) 20 rue d’Aligre, Paris 12
Italian at its best: “L’Impasto” restaurant
Nestled between Place de la Bastille, Marché d’Aligre and Gare de Lyon, L’Impasto is sure to delight Italian cuccina lovers! For aperitivo, this 12th arrondissement restaurant serves 24-month Parma ham sliced to perfection, or truffled burrata. For antipasti, the eggplant alla parmigiana is just perfect. For the main course, a wide selection of pizzas is available for Italian food lovers. And we’re telling you: they’re just delicious! In the mood for pasta al forno? Lasagne à l’Ajaccienne au gratin au four is simply excellent. If you’re still hungry, a few dolcishould whet your appetite, such as Calzone au Nutella, Panna cotta or the excellent classic Tiramisù at L’Impasto.
Restaurant L’Impasto, 63 rue Traversiere, Paris 12