Welcome back to part two of our Paris restaurant series. This time we’re heading into the heart of the city – from the sophistication of the Opéra district to the cultural landmarks surrounding the Louvre and the bustling food hubs near Châtelet. These five standout restaurants each bring a different flavour to the table, whether you’re in the mood for elegant French dining, modern Asian fusion, or a cool, crowd-pleasing bite in the centre of it all. Let’s get into it.
6. CoCo: Glamorous Dining at Palais Garnier
About CoCo
Set within the historic Palais Garnier, CoCo is an elegant restaurant that combines classic Parisian luxury with contemporary flair. The stunning interior – complete with Art Deco touches, lush velvet seating, and soft golden lighting – creates an atmosphere that’s both sophisticated and welcoming. Whether dining before the opera or celebrating a special evening, CoCo promises an unforgettable experience.
What It Is Known For
CoCo is renowned for its chic ambiance, exceptional French cuisine with international inspirations, and its impeccable service. It’s particularly famed as an iconic dining spot ideal for special occasions.
Menu
The menu blends French classics with global influences, featuring dishes such as fresh seafood platters, truffle risotto, grilled meats, and inventive vegetarian options. Desserts include elegant pastries and decadent chocolate creations, perfectly complementing the sophisticated dining experience.
💡 Travel Gentlemen Recommendations
We booked CoCo for a late lunch on a day we wanted to treat ourselves – and honestly, it felt like the perfect kind of Parisian indulgence. It’s the sort of place where you dress up a bit (nothing too fancy, just enough to feel sharp), and the second you walk in, the space kind of does the rest. High ceilings, golden light, and a gentle buzz in the air.
To start, we shared the green asparagus with hazelnuts and parmesan cream and the burrata with confit lemon – light, fresh and full of flavour. For mains, one of us went for the truffle linguine, the other had the sea bass with spinach and beurre blanc. Both were beautifully done and felt just right for the setting. We finished by sharing the profiteroles – soft choux, cold vanilla ice cream, and loads of hot chocolate sauce poured over at the table. Unreal!
CoCo feels a little more special than your everyday lunch spot, but still keeps things relaxed. A great shout if you’re in the mood to elevate your afternoon without overdoing it.
Cost
CoCo is suited to the Quintessential Gentleman seeking refined luxury. Starters range from €18 – €25, mains €28 – €45, and desserts €10 – €15. Expect to spend approximately €70 – €100 per person for a complete, luxurious dining experience.
Website/Instagram URL
restaurant-coco.com | @cocorestaurant_
Opening Times
Open daily from 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM and 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM
How to Get There
Conveniently located at Palais Garnier, CoCo is just a 2-minute walk from Opéra metro station (Lines 3, 7, 8). Its central position makes it easily accessible after exploring nearby attractions or attending performances.
Address: 1 Place Jacques Rouché, 75009 Paris
7. Miss Kô: Stylish Asian Fusion on the Champs-Élysées
About Miss Kô
Located near the iconic Champs-Élysées, Miss Kô is a glamorous dining hotspot offering a vibrant fusion of Asian culinary traditions. The stylish, art-driven interior, designed by Philippe Starck, blends neon lights, eclectic artwork, and bustling energy, creating an exciting ambiance ideal for socializing. It’s the perfect spot for lively dinners, date nights, or fashionable group gatherings.
What It Is Known For
Miss Kô is renowned for its unique blend of Asian cuisines presented with creative flair. A standout feature is the striking dragon animation that plays across the long bar, adding to the restaurant’s immersive, art-driven atmosphere. It attracts a stylish crowd seeking innovative dishes in a sophisticated yet energetic setting.
Menu
The eclectic menu spans Japanese sushi, Thai curries, Chinese dim sum, and inventive fusion dishes. Signature sushi rolls, flavourful wok dishes, and an array of cocktails complement the vibrant atmosphere perfectly.
Check out the menu here
💡 Travel Gentlemen Recommendations
We love everything Philippe Starck, so Miss Kô was high on our list – and it didn’t disappoint. His signature style is all over the space: surreal, slightly chaotic, and full of colour and character. Think neon lights, layered murals, and design that feels more like a cinematic set than a restaurant.
We ate at a table first – kicking things off with the crispy duck spring rolls and dragon sushi rolls, which looked almost too good to eat. For mains, one of us had the black cod misoyaki, which was silky and perfectly cooked, and the other went for the Thai-style beef stir-fry, spicy and packed with flavour. We wrapped things up with cocktails at the bar, where the dragon animations gliding across the counter screens stole the show – a total vibe!
Even the dessert menu was a moment, designed like a flight ticket and wrapped in a miniature passport. Miss Kô is bold, fun, and full of energy. Loved it.
Cost
Miss Kô suits the Fair Fellow and Quintessential Gentleman seeking stylish yet accessible luxury. Starters range €10 – €18, mains from €20 – €35, and cocktails around €12 – €15. Anticipate spending €50 – €70 per person for a memorable evening.
Website/Instagram URL
miss-ko.com | @misskorestaurant
Opening Times
Open daily from 12:00 PM to 2:00 AM
How to Get There
Ideally situated just steps from the famous Champs-Élysées, Miss Kô is a convenient 3-minute walk from George V metro station (Line 1), perfect for dining after shopping or sightseeing.
Address: 49 Avenue George V, 75008 Paris
View on Google Maps
8. Bistrot Richelieu: Classic Parisian Charm Near the Louvre
About Bistrot Richelieu
Situated close to the iconic Palais Royal and Louvre Museum, Bistrot Richelieu exudes quintessential Parisian charm. Its classic decor features polished wood interiors, elegant mirrors, and traditional bistro tables, creating a cozy yet sophisticated dining environment. Popular with both locals and tourists, it’s ideal for leisurely lunches, intimate dinners, or simply enjoying a glass of wine while soaking in the Parisian ambiance.
What It Is Known For
Bistrot Richelieu is beloved for its authentic French bistro cuisine, friendly service, and inviting atmosphere. It’s particularly noted for expertly prepared classic dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Menu
The menu highlights traditional French favourites like entrecôte steak, duck magret, creamy risotto, and fresh seafood dishes. Classic desserts such as chocolate mousse, tarte tatin, and crème brûlée complete the delightful dining experience.
Check out the menu here
💡 Travel Gentlemen Recommendations
We came across Bistrot Richelieu on a rainy evening in November – the kind of night where you just want something warm, comforting, and classically French. Tucked away on a quieter stretch near Palais Royal, this place felt like the perfect escape from the drizzle. Inside, the glow from the bistro lights, wood-panelled walls and old-school charm instantly made us feel like we were in the right place.
We started with their famous homemade egg mayonnaise, which might sound simple – but it’s done properly, rich and silky with just the right punch from the mustard. For mains, we both went straight in for the Bœuf Bourguignon à l’ancienne – slow-cooked beef in red wine with soft carrots and buttery mashed potato. Deep, rich, and full of that soul-warming flavour you want from a dish like this.
After dinner, we walked just a few minutes over to Rehab Bar for drinks – a hidden cocktail bar with a speakeasy feel, perfect for stretching out the evening. If you’re after a proper Paris bistro experience, Richelieu delivers.
Cost
Bistrot Richelieu provides excellent value suited to the Fair Fellow. Starters range from €8 – €14, mains €18 – €28, and desserts around €7 – €10. Expect to spend approximately €40 – €55 per person, including wine.
Website/Instagram URL
bistrotrichelieu.com | @bistrotrichelieu
Opening Times
Open daily from 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
How to Get There
Perfectly located near Paris’s major landmarks, Bistrot Richelieu is just a 4-minute walk from Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre metro station (Lines 1 and 7), offering easy access after sightseeing.
Address: 45 Rue de Richelieu, 75001 Paris
View on Google Maps
9. Le Fumoir: Elegant Dining by the Louvre
About Le Fumoir
Perfectly situated opposite the Louvre Museum, Le Fumoir blends sophisticated Parisian elegance with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. This chic bistro-bar combines Art Deco charm, cozy leather seating, and atmospheric lighting to create an inviting space ideal for refined dining, casual cocktails, or simply enjoying a coffee after exploring the city’s cultural highlights.
What It Is Known For
Le Fumoir is renowned for its chic atmosphere, exceptional location, and consistently high-quality French and international dishes. It’s especially popular for leisurely brunches, stylish dinners, and intimate gatherings.
Menu
The diverse menu at Le Fumoir offers contemporary French cuisine alongside international influences. Highlights include gourmet burgers, fresh seafood dishes, creative vegetarian options, and classic French desserts. An impressive wine list and inventive cocktails perfectly complement the culinary offerings.
💡 Travel Gentlemen Recommendations
We originally came to Le Fumoir for brunch… and ended up staying for far too many French 75s! It’s one of those places where time slips away in the best possible way – elegant without being formal, with that old-school Parisian charm you want when you’re sitting across from the Louvre.
We went for the scrambled eggs with truffle, which were rich and creamy, and the homemade gravlax with dill and toasted brioche – light, fresh, and perfectly balanced. The brioche French toast with caramelised apples was pure comfort, especially alongside a strong coffee… or maybe another French 75…
Come for brunch, stay for cocktails, and don’t plan anything afterwards!
Cost
Le Fumoir is suitable for the Fair Fellow seeking quality and refinement without excessive expense. Starters range from €10 – €16, mains from €18 – €30, and desserts around €8 – €10. A complete meal typically costs between €40 – €60 per person.
Website/Instagram URL
Opening Times
Open daily from 11:00 AM to 2:00 AM
How to Get There
Le Fumoir is conveniently located just steps away from the Louvre-Rivoli metro station (Line 1), making it an easy destination before or after exploring nearby Parisian landmarks.
Address: 6 Rue de l’Amiral de Coligny, 75001 Paris
View on Google Maps
10. Petit Bao: Trendy Chinese Eatery in Châtelet-Les Halles
About Petit Bao
Located in the bustling Châtelet-Les Halles district, Petit Bao is a modern, stylish restaurant known for authentic Chinese cuisine in a vibrant, contemporary setting. With bright interiors, lively music, and an open kitchen that showcases chefs crafting handmade bao buns and dumplings, the atmosphere is energetic yet welcoming, perfect for casual dining or a fun evening with friends.
What It Is Known For
Petit Bao is celebrated for its delicious handmade bao buns, freshly prepared dumplings, and amazing Sichuan-inspired dishes. Its youthful, lively ambiance and consistently excellent food attract a diverse crowd of diners.
Menu
The menu features a delightful array of fluffy steamed bao buns filled with tender pork belly, crispy chicken, or fresh vegetables. Other highlights include handmade dumplings, fragrant noodle soups, and spicy Sichuan dishes. Refreshing cocktails and traditional teas enhance the dining experience.
💡 Travel Gentlemen Recommendations
We had to queue when we arrived at Petit Bao, but not for long – and honestly, it was worth it. The staff were super warm and welcoming… who said Parisians aren’t friendly?! The vibe here is bright, fast-paced, and fun, and, of course, everything is made to be shared.
We always order Xiaolongbao – it’s one of those dishes we both love – and this version was excellent: soupy, delicate, but BURSTING with flavour! The Char Siu Bao was rich, sticky, and perfectly balanced. The Fraîcheur Verte – a crisp cucumber salad with black vinegar and sesame – added a fresh, cooling contrast to the richer dishes. We’d suggest ordering one bao basket and one dish per person so you can try a bit of everything. We finished with the Mango Sago, which was light, creamy, and just the right amount of sweet.
Cost
Petit Bao offers excellent value, ideal for the Modest Man or Fair Fellow seeking affordable yet high-quality dining. Bao buns and dumplings range from €6 – €10, noodle dishes and mains from €10 – €15. A satisfying meal here typically costs around €20 – €30 per person.
Website/Instagram URL
Opening Times
Open daily from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM
How to Get There
Petit Bao is centrally located, just a 4-minute walk from Étienne Marcel metro station (Line 4), and close to the vibrant Les Halles shopping area, making it convenient for a delicious break during sightseeing.
Address: 116 Rue Saint-Denis, 75002 Paris
In Summary
From the show-stopping interiors of CoCo to the elegant French charm of Le Fumoir, this central collection shows off just how varied Paris dining can be. The convenience of these locations means you’re never far from your next great meal – whether you’re shopping near Opéra, wandering through the Louvre, or catching the metro at Châtelet. Stay tuned for part three, where we head into the atmospheric streets of the Marais, Saint-Paul, and Saint-Germain for a more intimate, soulful slice of Parisian cuisine.
Missed Part 1?
If you haven’t already, check out Part 1 of our Top 15 Paris Restaurants guide for a flavour-packed tour through Montmartre, Pigalle and Canal St Martin. From historic bistros to buzzy local favourites, it’s where our journey began — and well worth a look before you book.
