The Saint-Germain district, located in the heart of Paris, is much more than just a passageway. It’s a charming haven where history, culture, and French gastronomy blend harmoniously. Imagine strolling through cobbled streets lined with iconic cafés and artisanal boutiques, all while savoring the enticing aromas wafting from nearby bakeries and patisseries.
A gourmet stroll through the Saint Germain district offers an opportunity to discover the culinary richness of this iconic neighborhood, where every street corner holds a new delight for your taste buds. Whether you’re a fan of French delicacies, passionate about wine tasting, or simply seeking an authentic culinary experience, Saint-Germain-des-Prés invites you on an unforgettable sensory journey.
Allow yourself to be seduced by refined flavors, while enjoying the proximity to iconic landmarks such as the Luxembourg Gardens or Café de Flore. Each stop on this gastronomic tour promises unique indulgent breaks, where every bite becomes a celebration of French gastronomy. Explore our address book to discover the best dining spots and experience a culinary adventure you won’t soon forget.
Don’t forget to book your stay at the Hotel Trianon Rive Gauche, ideally located to embark on your exploration of this legendary district. Our hotel offers exceptional comfort after a day rich in discoveries and tastings.
The best spots for a refined brunch in the Saint Germain district
Café de Flore
The Café de Flore, a true Parisian institution, is one of the must-visit spots for a refined brunch in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district. Renowned for its elegant ambiance and rich literary history, this iconic café offers a classic brunch with a touch of sophistication. Here, you can enjoy fresh pastries, Eggs Benedict, indulgent salads, and a selection of freshly squeezed juices and high-quality coffee. All of this is served in an authentic setting where the charm of old Paris is palpable.
- Opening Hours: daily from 7:30 AM to 1:30 AM.
- Price Range: approximately €25-35 per person for brunch.
- Reservation Options: no reservation required, but it is advisable to arrive early to secure a table.
Les Deux Magots
Just a short walk from Café de Flore, Les Deux Magots is another legendary address in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, perfect for an elegant brunch. This historic café, once frequented by famous writers and artists, offers a refined brunch experience with options such as salted butter toast, scrambled eggs with truffle, smoked salmon, and a variety of fine pastries. The ambiance is chic, and the atmosphere is imbued with Paris’s intellectual history.
- Opening Hours: daily from 7:30 AM to 1:00 AM.
- Price Range: €30-40 per person.
- Reservation Options: reservations recommended for weekends.
Le Ralph’s
For a slightly different but equally refined brunch experience, Le Ralph’s, located in the Ralph Lauren mansion, offers a sumptuous setting in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. The brunch here is a true feast, featuring a selection of upscale American-inspired dishes such as fluffy pancakes, Florentine eggs, club sandwiches, and Caesar salads, all prepared with great attention to detail and flavor.
- Opening hours: saturday and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
- Price range: starting from €35 per person.
- Reservation options: Reservations recommended online or by phone.
La Palette
For a more relaxed yet still refined brunch, La Palette is a typical Parisian bistro that attracts both locals and visitors alike. Its artistic ambiance, with mural paintings and a charming terrace, makes it a perfect spot for a Sunday brunch. Enjoy generous plates of charcuterie, cheese, fresh salads, and traditional pastries, all accompanied by a good coffee or a glass of wine.
- Opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to midnight, closed on Sunday.
- Price range: €20-30 per person.
- Reservation options: No reservation needed, except for large groups.
Colorova
For a touch of modernity and innovation, Colorova, a contemporary tea salon, offers a creative brunch in a stylish setting. Here, pastry takes center stage with original creations that change with the seasons. The brunch features dishes like cocotte eggs, artisanal bread tartines, homemade fruit juices, and a selection of desserts that will delight even the most demanding sweet tooth. The cozy ambiance is perfect for a relaxing moment in the heart of the neighborhood.
- Opening hours: Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
- Price range: Around €30 per person.
- Reservation options: Reservations recommended to avoid waiting.
These must-visit brunch spots in Saint-Germain-des-Prés promise a memorable culinary experience in one of Paris’s most charming districts. After enjoying a refined brunch, return to the comfort of Hotel Trianon Rive Gauche, conveniently located near these iconic places. Our hotel is the perfect starting point for a day of gastronomic and cultural exploration.
The must-visit patisseries in the Saint Germain des Prés neighborhood
The Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, with its timeless charm, is a true paradise for lovers of French sweets. The patisseries here blend creativity and tradition to offer desserts that delight the taste buds. Here is a selection of the most remarkable patisseries in the area, where every bite invites you to savor the art of French pastry-making.
Pierre Hermé
Pierre Hermé, often hailed as the “Picasso of Pastry,” is a landmark in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. His boutique, discreetly located on Rue Bonaparte, offers a selection of innovative and delightfully bold pastries. The macaron, in particular, stands out as his most renowned specialty, with flavors ranging from the classic chocolate to unique creations like the “Ispahan,” a delicate blend of rose, lychee, and raspberry.
- Specialties: macarons, Infinite Vanilla Tart, Millefeuille, Ispahan Croissant.
- Opening hours: monday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, closed on Sundays.
- Recommendations: don’t miss the Mogador macaron (passion fruit and milk chocolate), a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Tasting on-site: primarily for takeout, but nearby parks like the Jardin du Luxembourg offer a pleasant setting to enjoy your treats.
Ladurée
Ladurée, another gem of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, is renowned for its luxurious pastries and timeless elegance. Situated on Rue Bonaparte, this iconic patisserie is famous for its macarons and exquisite pastries that embody French tradition and sophistication. The shop’s classic décor and charming ambiance enhance the experience of indulging in its sweet creations.
- Specialties: Macarons, Tarte au Citron, Saint-Honoré, Financier.
- Opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, closed on Sundays.
- Recommendations: The Lemon Tart and the classic Vanilla Macaron are must-tries.
- Tasting on-site: Enjoy your pastries in the elegant salon de thé or take them to go for a delightful treat in one of the nearby parks.
Le Bon Marché – La Grande Épicerie de Paris
Located just a stone’s throw from Saint-Germain-des-Prés, La Grande Épicerie de Paris is a gastronomic haven featuring a pastry section that will captivate even the most discerning food lovers. You’ll find an impressive selection of fine pastries crafted by talented pastry chefs. The creations change regularly, offering a new discovery with each visit.
- Specialties: Paris-Brest, opera cake, rum baba, seasonal fruit tart.
- Opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 9 AM to 8 PM, Sunday from 10 AM to 7 PM.
- Recommendations: The Paris-Brest, filled with creamy praline, is a must-try. Its delicate flavors and high-quality ingredients make it a truly delightful taste experience.
- On-site tasting: Pastries are primarily for takeaway, but you can enjoy your purchases in the store’s gourmet spaces.
Pâtisserie Gérard Mulot
Gérard Mulot is a neighborhood patisserie with a well-established reputation. Here, French tradition is honored with artisanal pastries that maintain authentic flavors. The boutique, elegant and welcoming, is known for its fruit tarts, éclairs, and viennoiseries, perfect for a sweet break in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
- Specialties: Raspberry tart, chocolate éclair, lemon tart, viennoiseries.
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 7 AM to 8 PM, closed on Monday.
- Recommendations: The raspberry tart, filled with almond cream and fresh fruit, is a true delight, combining crispness and sweetness.
- On-site tasting: A few tables are available for on-site tasting, but the proximity to the Luxembourg Gardens makes it a great spot to take your treats and enjoy them in the park.
Gourmet restaurants to try in the Saint Germain des Prés district
Le quartier de Saint-Germain-des-Prés est non seulement un centre historique et culturel de Paris, mais aussi une destination prisée pour les amateurs de haute gastronomie. Voici une sélection des restaurants gastronomiques les plus réputés du quartier, où chaque repas se transforme en une expérience culinaire inoubliable.
Le Comptoir du Relais
Le Comptoir du Relais, led by the renowned chef Yves Camdeborde, is a must-visit for food lovers seeking traditional French cuisine with a modern twist. Located in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, this gastronomic bistro offers a warm and friendly atmosphere, perfect for a sophisticated yet unpretentious dinner.
- Cuisine: Traditional French bistro cuisine with a modern touch.
- Ambiance: Friendly, warm, with a classic Parisian bistro decor.
- Dish recommendations: House-made foie gras, crispy sweetbreads, and seasonally executed dishes.
- Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 12 PM to 3 PM and 7 PM to 11 PM, closed on weekends.
- Average cost: Around €60 per person, excluding drinks.
- Reservation: Highly recommended, especially for dinner.
L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon – Saint-Germain
L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon is synonymous with gastronomic excellence. Located on Rue de Montalembert, this two-Michelin-star restaurant offers an exceptional dining experience in an elegant and contemporary setting. The open kitchen allows guests to watch the chefs at work, adding an interactive dimension to your meal.
- Cuisine: Haute French gastronomy with international influences.
- Ambiance: Elegant, modern, with an open kitchen creating a dynamic atmosphere.
- Dish recommendations: Signature potato puree, langoustine ravioli, and imperial caviar served as a starter.
- Opening hours: Daily from 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM and 6:30 PM to 11 PM.
- Average cost: Tasting menu starting from €120 per person.
- Reservation: Essential, particularly for dinner.
Ze Kitchen Galerie
Ze Kitchen Galerie is a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers an innovative fusion of French and Asian cuisine. Chef William Ledeuil, renowned for his creativity and masterful use of herbs and spices, provides a unique culinary experience in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. The restaurant’s modern and artistic setting perfectly reflects the inventive approach to its cuisine.
- Cuisine: French-Asian fusion.
- Ambiance: Modern, artistic, with a decor that highlights contemporary artworks.
- Dish recommendations: Thai shrimp broth, foie gras ravioli with aromatic herbs, and green curry chicken.
- Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 12 PM to 2 PM and 7:30 PM to 10 PM.
Wine bars for a night out with friends in Saint-Germain-des-Pres
The Saint-Germain-des-Prés district is brimming with wine bars where you can enjoy excellent vintages in a friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re a connoisseur of fine wines or just looking for a cozy spot to share a drink with friends, here’s a selection of the best wine bars in this iconic neighborhood.
Le Bar du Marché
Le Bar du Marché is an institution in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. With its lively and relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for an evening with friends. Here, you’ll find an excellent selection of French wines, carefully chosen to pair with charcuterie and cheese boards, ideal for a long, leisurely aperitif.
- Atmosphere: Friendly and casual, often frequented by locals and students.
- Wine selection: Wide selection of French wines, primarily from small regional producers.
- Specialties: Charcuterie and cheese boards, gourmet tartines.
- Opening hours: Daily from 11 AM to 1 AM.
- Special events: Monthly wine tasting evenings.
- Reservation: Recommended for groups, especially on weekends.
Le Compas
Located just a few steps from the Saint-Germain-des-Prés church, Le Compas is a chic and elegant wine bar that offers a slightly more sophisticated experience. The atmosphere is intimate, making it the perfect spot for a quiet evening with friends over a good bottle of wine. The wine list highlights an excellent selection of organic and natural wines, accompanied by refined small plates.
- Atmosphere: Elegant and intimate, ideal for a quiet evening.
- Wine selection: Organic and natural wines, focusing on small, environmentally conscious producers.
- Specialties: Gourmet tapas, grilled vegetable plates, and homemade desserts.
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 5 PM to 11 PM.
- Special events: Themed evenings focusing on specific wine regions.
- Reservation: Highly recommended, especially for themed evenings.
L’Avant Comptoir du Marché
L’Avant Comptoir du Marché is an unconventional wine bar where you can discover exceptional wines in a relaxed and lively atmosphere. This small space is often packed, but that’s part of its charm. The wines are paired with gourmet tapas made from high-quality ingredients, making it a must-visit spot for lovers of fine food and wine.
- Atmosphere: Casual and lively, with a warm ambiance.
- Wine selection: Natural and biodynamic wines, carefully selected.
- Specialties: High-end tapas, such as Iberian ham croquettes or mini foie gras burgers.
- Opening hours: Daily from 11 AM to 11 PM.
- Special events: Spontaneous tastings of new wines.
- Reservation: Not available—first come, first served!
Whether you’re looking for a lively evening or a more tranquil moment, the wine bars of Saint-Germain-des-Prés offer a variety of experiences for every taste. Each venue offers a carefully curated selection of wines, gourmet accompaniments, and a unique ambiance that makes every evening a memorable experience.
Gourmet grocery stores to discover regional products in Saint-Germain-des-Pres
The Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood is a true paradise for food lovers in search of French regional products. Its gourmet grocery stores offer an exquisite selection of local and regional goods, perfect for bringing a little piece of France home or for giving as a gift. Here are some of the best places to discover culinary treasures.
La Grande Épicerie de Paris
Arguably one of the most famous gourmet grocery stores in the capital, La Grande Épicerie de Paris is an institution. Located just a stone’s throw from the Jardin du Luxembourg, this store offers an impressive selection of regional products. Here, you’ll find aged cheeses, artisanal charcuterie, regional wines and spirits, and a wide range of gourmet grocery items from all corners of France.
- Regional products: Cheeses from small producers, top-quality charcuterie, artisanal olive oils, local jams, and honey.
- Product origin: Selection from regional and national producers.
- Opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
- Specialties offered: Gourmet baskets, rare spices, and luxury products like caviar and truffles.
- Tasting/Purchase: Tasting available on-site and purchase in-store or online.
Maison Plisson Saint-Germain
Maison Plisson is a gourmet grocery store that highlights the expertise of French artisans. This must-visit address in Saint-Germain-des-Prés offers a wide range of regional products, from fresh fruits and vegetables to pantry staples, along with a carefully curated selection of wines and cheeses. All in a modern and welcoming setting.
- Regional products: Seasonal fruits and vegetables, gourmet pantry items, wines, cheeses, and artisanal charcuterie.
- Product origin: Mainly from small French producers, with a focus on quality and traceability.
- Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
- Specialties offered: Homemade prepared dishes, artisanal bread, and a selection of organic products.
- Tasting/Purchase: Tasting available on-site in the dedicated area or purchase in-store.
Da Rosa
Da Rosa is a gourmet grocery store with a warm atmosphere, specializing in Mediterranean and Iberian products. This unique place offers a refined selection of regional products, such as Iberian hams, high-quality olive oils, and Spanish wines. It’s the perfect spot to find rare and delicious products, ideal for food lovers in search of authenticity.
- Regional products: Iberian hams, extra virgin olive oils, artisanal preserves, Mediterranean wines, and spirits.
- Product origin: Renowned Mediterranean producers, mainly from Spain and Portugal.
- Opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
- Specialties offered: Tasting platters, Mediterranean gourmet baskets, and rare condiments.
- Tasting/Purchase: Tasting available on-site in the bar area, purchase in-store.
La Maison de la Truffe
For truffle enthusiasts, La Maison de la Truffe is a must-visit in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. This gourmet store is dedicated to the black diamond of French gastronomy, offering a full range of truffle-based products, from fresh truffles in season to truffle oils, butters, and sauces. The perfect place to treat yourself or find an exceptional gift.
- Regional products: Fresh truffles (seasonal), truffle oils and butters, truffle salt, truffle sauces, and condiments.
- Product origin: French truffle farms, mainly from Provence and Périgord.
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
- Specialties offered: Truffle gift boxes, assortments of truffle products.
- Tasting/Purchase: Tasting of truffle-based products available on-site, purchase in-store or online.
These gourmet grocery stores in Saint-Germain-des-Prés invite you on a culinary journey through the regions of France. Whether you’re looking for rare products or simply seeking a gourmet gift, these addresses will offer you exceptional products that celebrate French regional diversity.
