Dining with a view of the Eiffel Tower
For years I thought about how terrific it would be to dine up on the Eiffel Tower. The Jules Verne Restaurant is located on the second floor and offers sweeping views over Paris. However, the more time I spent in Paris, the more I realised I wanted to be dining with a view of the Eiffel Tower.
I was therefore delighted when I found Les Ombres, a restaurant located on the rooftop terrace of the Musée du quai Branly. It’s one of those places that you would really only ever know about if you visited the museum or had someone recommend it to you.
I had booked this restaurant before I had left Australia as it can be difficult to secure a table for dinner. It was easy to do online, and I received a confirmation immediately.
The night we had dinner here, I was pumped, having just completed a cooking class where I learned how to make authentic puff pastry. To dine out at such a fine establishment was going to be the icing on the cake.
The restaurant is as artistic as the food
We arrived at Les Ombres, a glass encased restaurant, covered with metallic beams that liken it to the nearby Eiffel Tower. The term Les Ombres means “the shadows” a nod to the dark light that reaches over the terrace each afternoon.
The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor (al fresco) dining. Sitting outdoors is restricted to the warmer months, when the terrace is overflowing with good fun, food and wine. Irrespective of whether you are indoors or out, the Eiffel Tower can be seen from every table.
Silver service and a special view
Our Maitre’d guided us to our table, right in the centre, with a clear view of the Eiffel Tower. My preference would definitely be to dine at night where you get to see the Eiffel Tower in all of it’s bright, shiny glory.
The illumination makes it special, but in the evening a beautiful light and laser show that occurs on the hour, every hour, turns it into a shimmering spectacle. We counted three light shows whilst we were there. Clearly we weren’t in a hurry to leave!
Room with a view
The light show on the Eiffel Tower
As you take your seat and try to take as much of your surroundings in (or just pinch yourself that you are actually sitting here), the Sommelier will come over to your table and discuss their wine list, recommending something to start off your meal.
As much as I love French wines and champagnes, I couldn’t wait to explore the menu. Les Hombres strays away from the traditional French cooking, creating more contemporary pieces (and works of art).
An entree of salmon carpaccio was a revelation to us, seeing this is not usually something we would order.
Salmon carpaccio
My main of poached chicken, grapes, spanish onion and pea puree was a taste sensation.
Poached chicken with grapes, spanish onion and pea puree
And my husband’s main of pork belly….well, I haven’t met too many people who wouldn’t be happy to eat pork belly. Vegetarians and vegans excluded of course.
Pork belly
The French do dessert better than anyone else I know and ours were no exception. I think the photos below say it all.
Fine dining for a special occasion
Les Ombres is a fine dining experience, perfect for that special occasion. There are prix-fixe menus as well as a la carte. Whilst the range is lessened if you choose the fixed price menu, the quality of the food is not compromised. It does however make it a little lighter on your wallet.
After dinner, we stepped outside onto the terrace to admire the Eiffel Tower and appreciate just how close we felt to it. Everything about this restaurant makes for a perfect dining experience, and I will gladly return.
In my opinion, it’s definitely better to be dining with a view of the Eiffel Tower, than to be dining in it.
Looking for more foodie options in Paris. Here’s a great resource available from Amazon.
Kerri now travels regularly with her husband, Stirling, where eating great food, drinking quality beer and wine, and cooking international foods are integral to their adventures.
Lauren Meshkin @BonVoyageLauren says
September 28, 2016 at 7:24 pmPork belly and fantastic French desserts? I’m in. That view is so so SO epic! Thanks for sharing another great place to eat in Paris! I can’t wait for my upcoming visit 🙂
Ryan Biddulph says
October 1, 2016 at 1:59 pmHi Kerri,
As amazing is the view is I simply could not get over the desserts. The stuff I dream of. I’ve a sweet tooth. I’d be gazing at that cake – both cakes I mean – while this world-renowned view sits all around me LOL. My love of sweets. Or French sweets. Or French delicacy sweets. Whatever you want to call them. Ditto on the pork belly. I go veggie most of the time as my wife is veggie but love meat once in a while. Especially when it’s fabulously prepared. Just tonight I had a down home, southern style meat medley at a wedding – weird-sounding, I know – that was amazing. Prepped brisket, prime rib, cured meats, nothing like I’d ever eaten before.
Thanks for sharing Kerri 🙂
Ryan
Beer and Croissants says
October 4, 2016 at 1:51 pmHey Ryan all that sounds exactly like me – seriously! I am a major lover of all things French dessert and pastry! Also loved cured meats and brisket too.
Chrysoula says
October 1, 2016 at 5:39 pmThanks for this great recommendation.I haven’t heard of this restaurant before and the views are stunning. Definitely on my list for a romantic trip to Paris.
Monika says
October 1, 2016 at 6:15 pmWonderful views – it must be amazing to dine there!
I’d love the deserts you had, but I’d definitely order something different for the main course – I’m not really fond of the present trend of serving many things in the form of puree or mousse.
anna says
October 1, 2016 at 6:25 pmThat pork belly looks lush. and wow, man, what a view!!
Clare says
October 2, 2016 at 2:21 amThe food looks amazing and the view even more. I could sit and have a meal with that view too 🙂
Amy says
October 2, 2016 at 3:01 amOh, that view! I thought the view from the tower was amazing, but I agree, the view OF the tower during an evening meal is the way to go! The food looks incredible. A meal you’ll never forget!
Nisha says
October 2, 2016 at 3:16 pmThats what I call Feast for your stomach and feast for your eyes!
Drew says
October 2, 2016 at 3:55 pmI actually haven’t heard of this place, but there can’t be a better view of the Eiffel Tower than that! Delicious looking food too. I now have an urge to eat salmon carpaccio and pork belly!
Dave Briggs says
October 3, 2016 at 1:27 amDinner with a view… and what a view! It’s great that you can book it online as well to avoid being disappointed when visiting.
Lori says
October 3, 2016 at 6:14 amWhen I was in Paris I have to admit that I didn’t manage to visit the Musée du quai Branly, nor the restaurant there. But it sure looks like a must try – and not only for the view (which is truly beautiful!), but also for the dishes. I’d definitely have that chicken! And at least a desert!
Erika Bisbocci says
October 3, 2016 at 7:14 amSuch a beautiful view and I, too, would likely prefer going at night to see the Eiffel Tower lit up! The dinner looks divine and is unfortunately probably out of my price range, but it seems perfect for a special occasion!
Lindsay says
October 3, 2016 at 10:47 amThanks so much for sharing this post! I’ve been to Paris once, but only for a short time. I think it would be lovely to go back and eat at this restaurant, especially with a close friend or loved one. Those views are stunning – I absolutely agree with your dining choice; it’s very special to dine and see the Eiffel Tower that close! Cheers!
Juliette @ Snorkels To Snow says
October 3, 2016 at 1:33 pmMmmm, that pork belly! Agreed, there aren’t too many people who would turn up their nose at that! Looks like a beautiful place for fine dining, ideal for a special celebration perhaps! Just better leave room for dessert…
Helena says
October 3, 2016 at 6:36 pmI really couldn’t think of a better view to have as I eat dinner! I must look into this place for my next trip. The pork belly looks delicious as well!!
Natasha Amar says
October 3, 2016 at 8:08 pmThe food looks really artistic! The pairing of chicken with grapes is quite unusual, but sounds interesting.
Elisa says
October 3, 2016 at 11:52 pmNice review. I was dining at Jules Verne and it was nothing special, the hall is so big that you don’t feel the “Eiffel Tower” thing (plus the food was so so). I think you took the best decision 😉
Beer and Croissants says
October 4, 2016 at 1:28 pmThat makes me feel so much better Elisa!
Vyjay says
October 4, 2016 at 12:42 pmThis is definitely my idea of a romantic dinner. Candle light, great food and a brightly lit candle like Eiffel Tower in the background. Ideal for birthdays and anniversaries.
Beer and Croissants says
October 4, 2016 at 1:23 pmPerfect for that !
John M. says
October 4, 2016 at 7:23 pmGreat view from the rooftop. The entrees look just as good as you have described… definitely something to consider on my next trip to Paris, which thankfully isn’t very far away!
Christine | The Traveloguer says
October 4, 2016 at 7:47 pmWhat a great experience to have in Paris. That pork belly looks amazing! It’s such a good idea to eat with a view of the Eiffel Tower instead of inside it!
Rob Taylor says
October 5, 2016 at 6:14 pmI think you may have found the most French restaurant in all of Paris. It sounds wonderful and the food is so Frenchly prepared. Love it and would love to have an evening here when I’m back in Paris.
Gypsycouple says
October 5, 2016 at 7:22 pmThis truly seems like a find! An honest question though, was the dining experience more fulfilling because of the view or was it top class even without it? We are suckers for a good view but the food takes top priority for us!
Beer and Croissants says
October 6, 2016 at 9:19 amIn my opinion the food was excellent!
Megan Indoe says
October 5, 2016 at 8:35 pmI’m with you, I’d rather have a view of the Eiffel Tower rather than dine in the Eiffel Tower! The food sounds great and that view is incredible! Thanks for sharing your awesome find! We will have to bookmark this for any future Paris travel!!
marie says
October 5, 2016 at 9:46 pmWhat an a amazing view of Tour Eiffel! Reading this makes me want to jump on a Eurostar to Paris for lunch today!
Beer and Croissants says
October 6, 2016 at 9:19 amYou could Marie – wouldn’t take you long!
Jessica C says
October 6, 2016 at 3:15 amNot even kidding…my husband walked by as I was reading this and said “Sold! When can we go?!” Looks amazing. Sounds amazing. And the next time I’m there will my husband, I think we’ll go! I was there last weekend…but it was solo. I think it’s better to experience it with someone. What do you think?
Beer and Croissants says
October 6, 2016 at 9:18 amDefinitely better with others, even better with someone special Jessica !
Thelittlelai: Beyond limits says
October 6, 2016 at 6:53 amI’ve never been to Paris, but it has long been penned on my bucket list. That scene of the Eifel tower while dining is beyond compare, romantic as it looks like and that feeling when you get the chance to eat on that beanery is really amazing, if only I could, but probably maybe soon. The food looks delectable as well.
Beer and Croissants says
October 6, 2016 at 9:17 amParis is such a beautiful place – worthy of all the hype it receives, in my opinion.
Samantha | There She Goes Again says
October 6, 2016 at 12:38 pmI so agree! I went to the top of the Eiffel Tower in December when I visited and the views are…. well they’re not as nice as when the Eiffel is in them. It was gray out and all the gardens were dead for winter, so it was pretty cold looking. However, seeing the Eiffel Tower all light up was sight to see, so I’d definitely prefer a dining experience with it! This restaurant sounds amazing, both for the view and the food!
Beer and Croissants says
October 11, 2016 at 11:35 amYep, that’s exactly why I would prefer to look at it. Thanks for sharing your experience Samantha.
Anne Slater-Brooks says
October 6, 2016 at 3:48 pmThat is definitely a room with a view. Wow! The food looks pretty mouth-watering too. I haven’t been to Paris in ages but maybe I should return
Natasha says
October 6, 2016 at 4:38 pmKerri, this looks amazing — what a view. I must say, the meals sound delicious as well! I just might have to check this out… Thanks for sharing!
Sally says
October 6, 2016 at 5:34 pmIn my opinion, I would much rather dine somewhere that has a view of the Eiffel Tower than dine on the Eiffel Tower like so many tourists do. This restaurant looks amazing, the food and the view are incredible!
Beer and Croissants says
October 11, 2016 at 11:34 amI agree Sally, it was worth coming here just for the view.
Christina says
October 6, 2016 at 7:31 pmHow romantic! I would dine there just for the view and a glass of French champagne. Never mind the food…although from your description and photos the food looks pretty delicious.
Beer and Croissants says
October 7, 2016 at 7:10 pmIt’s good on all fronts Christina.
Christina says
October 19, 2016 at 1:40 pmWell, those pastries look rather yummy. Was the meal expensive? And how does this restaurant compare to the other places you dined at in France?
Beer and Croissants says
October 19, 2016 at 5:29 pmIt’s not on the low scale but it’s not Michelen star prices either.
Jan Michael De Guzman says
October 7, 2016 at 3:10 pmThis is a kind of experience that i do not want to miss in my life. I should keep working harder and earn enough cash to travel in this expensive city. Very lovely and romantic indeed
Beer and Croissants says
October 7, 2016 at 7:10 pmIt’s so worth it! Good luck to you in all that you do when you travel.
annette charlton says
October 9, 2016 at 8:48 pmGreat idea to have booked well ahead of time. I tend not to be this organised. The tower looks quite close with all the lights shining. Glad you had such a great time. Annette #AllAboutFrance
Beer and Croissants says
October 11, 2016 at 11:27 amI only book special places that I know will be possibly booked out when I get there. I definitely needed to with this one.
Christy Swagerty (whatupswags) says
October 10, 2016 at 3:25 amSO COOL!!! I will totally go eat here the next time I’m in Paris! WOW! #AllAboutFrance
Cal at Family Makes says
October 10, 2016 at 10:40 pmThe food looks absolutely gorgeous, but oh that view! I would never want to move. It is so fantastic. You are very lucky to have had such a brilliant dining experience with such a wonderful view. Thanks for sharing it with us. #AllAboutFrance
Phoebe | Lou Messugo says
October 11, 2016 at 5:00 amWhat a great find! I know about the museum but didn’t realise it had such a great restaurant on its roof. I want to go there NOW! Thanks for linking to #AllAboutFrance
Beer and Croissants says
October 11, 2016 at 11:25 amYou’d love it I’m sure Phoebe
Abhinav Singh says
October 14, 2016 at 3:11 amEiffel Tower has long been on my mind. A friend went there last year and he showed me its pictures taken from many angles. The view which you have shown is never seen before. I am sure it must be an awesome feeling to dine in a restaurant in the looming presence of the iconic tower. I do not have a sweet tooth but the dessert sure looks tempting.
Brianna says
October 15, 2016 at 9:31 pmGreat suggestion! It definitely sounds like a more rewarding experience to dine with a great view of the tower, rather than on the tower itself. Those desserts do look amazing, and the pics are enough to win me over!
Jennifer says
October 16, 2016 at 4:15 amI just recently learned about this restaurant, so I’m thrilled to hear a second recommendation for it. And I, too, love pork belly. Yum!
John @PreppyKitchen says
October 16, 2016 at 6:22 amWow that really is quite a view! I have no idea what that red glazed donut situation is but I feel like I need it!
Nadia @CityMum~RuralLife says
October 16, 2016 at 5:41 pmChicken with grapes – whqt an interesting combination! I’m with you, I’d rather dine with a view of the Eiffel Tower.
Rosemarie of Travel and Beyond says
October 16, 2016 at 6:18 pmWow, I would love to have such an experience! Such a gorgeous city and view and you had me at pork belly! It looks so good.
Mindi Hirsch says
October 17, 2016 at 10:06 amConsidering the fabulous view, I wouldn’t have been surprised if this restaurant were serving mediocre food. Instead the food looks excellent, especially the salmon carpaccio. Adding it to my list!
Evelyne CulturEatz says
October 17, 2016 at 11:22 amWow a stunning location for a restaurant, great view of the Eiffel tower. And now I am hungry with this gorgeous meal, I would definitely love to try that pork belly!
Prateek Dasgupta says
October 17, 2016 at 6:50 pmThis is a breath taking view of the Eiffel tower! Must be a really special place, loved the Salmon Carpaccio and the Pork Belly both look divine!
Kris says
October 18, 2016 at 8:57 amThat’s a super romantic dinner I bet. I envy the view..omg! The place looks so perfect and the food looks delish. I hope the price were reasonable but eaither way, I would still pay for a view and srvice like you had. 🙂
Bella WW says
October 19, 2016 at 3:09 amWow, this view is totally worth it, no matter of how expensive the food might be, in the fancy restaurant. That Salmon carpaccio looks great, not to mention the desserts which are my favorites always.
Beer and Croissants says
October 19, 2016 at 12:35 pmthey are mine too, especially in France.
Sher says
October 19, 2016 at 1:28 pmOoh this sounds like the perfect date night spot! Paris is already romantic but atop the Eiffel Tower.. Fantastique! Glad you enjoyed it
Kate says
October 20, 2016 at 3:34 amWow…what a magical view and a beautiful dinner! The presentation of the dishes is lovely!
Kimberly says
October 24, 2016 at 6:27 amThank you for sharing! I will need to go check this place out. Restaurant recommendations are always the best.
What was the evening dress code?
#allaboutfrance
Beer and Croissants says
November 4, 2016 at 12:26 pmKimberley, we were quite dressed up. It is Paris so it wouldn’t be the right thing to not be in my opinion. It’s not black tie/cocktail though.