The Louvre Museum in Paris offers a variety of dining options for visitors, ranging from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a gourmet meal, there are several choices available within the museum and its immediate vicinity. This guide will help you navigate the culinary landscape of the Louvre, ensuring you can refuel and relax during your visit to this world-renowned art institution.
What are the Best Dining Options Inside the Louvre?
Café Richelieu / Angelina
Located in the Richelieu wing of the Louvre, near the Napoleon III Apartments, Café Richelieu / Angelina is a French café and tea room known for its exquisite desserts and hot chocolate.
- Menu Highlights: French desserts, hot chocolate, chestnut cake, tea, croque-monsieur, quiche lorraine, and Scottish smoked salmon
- Average Cost: €25 to €45 for two people
- Operating Hours: Wednesday to Monday, 10:00 AM to 4:45 PM
- Seating: Indoor seating with views of the Louvre pyramid
Bistrot Benoit
Situated underneath the I.M. Pei glass pyramid, Bistrot Benoit offers a classic French bistro experience.
- Menu Highlights: Carpaccio, steak tartare, salads, and other French cuisine
- Average Cost: €15 to €25 for two people
- Operating Hours:
- Wednesday to Friday, Sunday: 12 noon to 2 PM and 6 PM to 10 PM
- Saturday: 6 PM to 8 PM
- Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays
- Seating: Limited seating, accessible within the museum
Cafés de la Pyramide
For a quick and casual dining option, the Cafés de la Pyramide are located on the lower level of the Louvre, in the Denon and Richelieu Wings.
- Menu Highlights: Baguette and bagel sandwiches, salads, quiche, pastries, hot beverages, and juices
- Average Cost: Average cafeteria prices
- Operating Hours: Varying hours, generally open during museum hours
- Seating: Quick and easy options within the museum
Where Can I Find Upscale Dining Near the Louvre?
Le Grand Véfour
While technically outside the main museum area, Le Grand Véfour is still considered part of the Louvre complex and offers a high-end dining experience.
- Menu Highlights: Local French and European cuisine, extensive wine list, truffle dishes, and classic French entrees
- Average Cost: €60 to €100 for two people
- Operating Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 12:15 PM to 2 PM and 7:15 PM to 9:30 PM
- Seating: Historic setting, accessible but requires a short walk from the main museum area
Café Marly
Located under the arcades of the Louvre, in the heart of the Tuileries Garden, Café Marly offers a sophisticated dining experience with views of the museum.
- Menu Highlights: French dishes including seasonal vegetables, grilled meats, fish, cheeseburgers, spring rolls, croque-monsieur, and a signature red fruit pavlova
- Average Cost: €20 to €40 for two people
- Operating Hours: 08:00 AM to 01:00 AM
- Seating: Outdoor seating on the veranda and interior seating
What are the Casual Dining Options Near the Louvre?
Café Des Marronniers
Situated on the right side of the Louvre, in the heart of the Tuileries Garden, this traditional French café offers a relaxed atmosphere.
- Menu Highlights: Quiches, salads, desserts, fish and chips, and croque-monsieur
- Average Cost: €20 to €40 for two people
- Operating Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 10 AM to 5:30 PM
- Seating: Casual outdoor and indoor seating
Terrasse de Pomone
This seasonal outdoor café is located at the edge of the Tuileries pond, offering views of both the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay.
- Menu Highlights: Baguette sandwiches, draft beer, champagne, freshly-squeezed fruit juices, house-made desserts like apple-raisin crumble and creme brûlée
- Average Cost: Reasonable prices for the area
- Operating Hours: April 15 to October 15
- Seating: Outdoor seating with scenic views
How Can I Make Reservations for Louvre Restaurants?
For many of the restaurants mentioned, especially the more upscale options like Le Grand Véfour and Café Richelieu / Angelina, making reservations is highly recommended. Here’s a quick guide:
- Phone Reservations: Most restaurants accept reservations by phone. Have your preferred date and time ready when calling.
- Online Booking: Some restaurants may offer online booking through their websites or third-party platforms.
- Email Reservations: For non-urgent bookings, email reservations are often accepted.
- Concierge Services: If you’re staying at a hotel, the concierge can often assist with making restaurant reservations.
What Should I Know About Dining Etiquette at the Louvre?
When dining at the Louvre’s restaurants, keep these etiquette tips in mind:
- Dress Code: While casual attire is acceptable in most venues, upscale restaurants like Le Grand Véfour may require smart casual or formal wear.
- Tipping: Service is usually included in the bill, but leaving an additional 5-10% for exceptional service is appreciated.
- Language: Basic French phrases for ordering and thanking are appreciated, but most staff speak some English.
- Timing: Lunch is typically served from 12 PM to 2 PM, and dinner from 7 PM to 10 PM. Plan accordingly.
Are There Special Dining Events at the Louvre?
Some restaurants, particularly Le Grand Véfour and Restaurant Du Palais Royal, offer special dining events and packages. These may include:
- Tasting menus
- Wine pairing experiences
- Seasonal or holiday-themed meals
- Private dining options for groups
Check with individual restaurants or the Louvre’s official website for current special dining events.
By exploring these diverse dining options, you can enhance your visit to the Louvre with culinary experiences that match the artistry of the museum itself. Whether you’re seeking a quick bite or a leisurely gourmet meal, the Louvre and its surroundings offer something to satisfy every palate and budget.