Paris is famed for many things including its high culture, stunning architecture and inspiring history. However, many visitors head to Paris for its fine food and wine, with numerous restaurants and bars dotted around the city. Not only are there some supremely romantic places to eat, there are some more unusual hotspots and themed bars too.
When it comes to romance, it is difficult to beat the Bateaux Parisiens River Cruise for atmosphere. As visitors sail along the Seine, they are treated to delicious cuisine with an inspiring backdrop of iconic Paris attractions passing them by.
There are many different options to choose from when it comes to these river cruises.
The Paris Illuminations cruise is a particular favourite, with visitors viewing the French capital after dark, with twinkling lights highlighting the world-famous attractions. The cruise is entirely glass-encased for optimal viewing opportunities. The cuisine is described as “meticulously presented,” while the service is “attentive and discreet”. According to the website: “This is a must-do, a cultural and very Parisian experience that is unique and must be shared!”
Earlier on in the evening there is the option of the Paris Essential, with which visitors can see the spectacular city at dusk as they sail along the Seine. This includes an all inclusive a la carte menu featuring a starter, main course, dessert, wines, mineral water and coffee. There is also an original musical atmosphere on board and a breathtaking, panoramic view of Paris from the entirely glass-encased boat.
There are many other tours on offer, including Paris Bistro and Celebratory Cruises on special calendar events like Christmas, New Year’s Eve and Valentine’s Day.
If you prefer your dining on dry land, there are plenty of options around the city too. One option is the Hard Rock Cafe – a world-famous and very fun dining experience.
The Hard Rock Cafe serves up delicious all-American food like burgers, hot dogs and fries. While there are branches around the world, each restaurant is special in that it contains memorabilia from the history of rock ‘n’ roll, delighting any fans of the genre.
At the Hard Rock Cafe in Paris, visitors will see the famous fur worn by John Lennon of the Beatles in 1969 as well as a suit belonging to Elvis Presley which came from his very own wardrobe. There is also Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler’s black lace stage costume from 1983, one of David Bowie’s gold records and a leather teddy worn by Madonna in a music video. A harmonica owned and played by Bob Dylan is also on display, alongside another item from John Lennon – a black wool jacket with a custom velvet collar. More contemporary music lovers will be excited to see an outfit worn by rapper Eminem during the 2001 British Music Awards, a signed Limp Bizkit skateboard used in music video Break Stuff and a sequinned bra owned by Gwen Stefani of No Doubt fame.
Another quirky dining location is L’Atelier Renault, which is situated in the middle of the Champs-Elysees. It is touted as the perfect place to soak up the electric atmosphere in the heart of Paris. The bar and restaurant also unusually encompasses an exhibition space, with five high walkways and a trendy design of wood, glass and aluminium. It is a very unique venture from the car manufacturer Renault, with regular exhibitions focusing on cars, sports, culture and technology. In contrast, it serves up delicious cocktails and fresh and tasty food. willamette wine tours