In the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Brasserie Lipp is one of those addresses that have endured through the ages without losing any of their lustre. Founded in 1880, listed as a historic monument and frequented by writers and politicians alike, it remains one of the most emblematic brasseries in Paris today.
The Saint-Germain-des-Prés institution frequented by Hemingway and Apollinaire
Just a stone’s throw from the church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Brasserie Lipp is one of Paris’s most legendary addresses. Founded in 1880 by Léonard Lipp, an Alsatian exiled after the 1870 war, it quickly became a mecca for gastronomy and intellectual life, frequented by writers and politicians alike. Listed as a historic monument since 1989, it still embodies the spirit of the great Parisian brasseries.
As soon as you enter, you’ll be struck by the decor, which remains faithful to its origins. Ceramic tiles with floral motifs, painted frescoes, mirrors, wood panelling and brown leather banquettes immerse visitors in a Belle Époque atmosphere. Everything here exudes authenticity, so much so that the room is one of the best-preserved brasserie interiors in Paris.
When it comes to food, Brasserie Lipp has always relied on simple, generous cuisine that respects the great French traditions. Typical Alsatian dishes are served, such as choucroute garnie, as well as brasserie classics like celery remoulade, leek vinaigrette, andouillette AAAAA, blanquette de veau and tête de veau ravigote. Dessert favourites include îlot flottante and homemade chocolate mousse.
Over the decades, Lipp has welcomed a prestigious clientele. Guillaume Apollinaire, André Gide, Paul Éluard and Ernest Hemingway all met there to discuss and write. Later, many politicians took up the habit, so much so that the brasserie was sometimes nicknamed “the annex of the French National Assembly”. Even today, it attracts both local regulars and visitors from all over the world who come to sample this piece of Parisian history.
With its lively atmosphere, listed decor and menu that has stood the test of time without going out of fashion, Brasserie Lipp remains one of the living symbols of Parisian gastronomy. Whether you come for a weekday lunch, a late dinner or simply to soak up the atmosphere of Saint-Germain, it’s an experience you’ll want to have at least once.
📍Location: Brasserie Lipp – 151, boulevard Saint-Germain, 75006