A Local's Guide to the Best Steak Frites in Paris

Ah, Paris! A city that croons sweet nothings to your heart through its romantic avenues, dazzles with a light show against the night sky, and dances in your taste buds with its world-class cuisine.

The pièce de résistance? The iconic steak frites.

It’s more than just a dish—it’s an event, a celebration of flavors that sizzle, crackle, and explode on your palate. Picture this: a juicy steak perfectly seared, whispering promises of rich, tender bites, paired with crispy golden fries that laugh in your mouth—now, isn’t that the kind of romance Paris is known for?

Prepare your taste buds, we’re about to dive fork-first into the ten best places in this magical city to satisfy your carnivorous cravings.

But why should you trust me?

Well, I’m not just any old guide. I’m a bona fide Parisian who’s been living, eating, and steak frites-ing here for the past 4 years.

where tiana travels in paris — Me celebrating my new move to Paris at Le Café Marly at the Louvre Museum!

I came to the city of love in 2019, armed with a love for all things food, and an insatiable appetite. A culinary mission soon presented itself to me: finding the best steak frites in town.

P.S. You can learn allll about me and my Parisian adventures by clicking here!

From popular brasseries to hidden gems, I’ve tested the waters (and the sauces) and now, I’m serving up my wisdom on a plate for you. After all, nothing brings people together quite like shared stories and a great meal. Every spot on this list has received my personal stamp (or should I say, bite?) of approval.

So, pull up a chair, grab a napkin – things are about to get deliciously messy!

Table of Contents

What is Steak Frites?

What are steak frites, anyway? And what’s the hype about?

Well, think of steak frites as France’s answer to the American steak and fries but oh-so-elegantly French. It’s a simple duo yet utterly irresistible: a well-seasoned, juicy steak alongside a heap of golden, crispy fries.

Its origin is a bit of a heated debate – is it French or Belgian? We’ll leave the fighting to them.

What’s certain is that it’s a cornerstone of French cuisine, deeply ingrained in Parisian bistro culture. From plush restaurants to casual eateries, it’s everywhere, adored by locals and visitors alike.

⚡ Related Read: Top 6 Burger Joints to Try for the Best Burger in Paris

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10 Restaurants with the Best Steak Frites in Paris

And alas, the moment you’ve all been waiting for – where to find the best steak frites in Paris.

This list of 10 Parisian restaurants make the top of the chart when it comes to this classic French dish!

1. Bouillon Chartier

bouillon chartier paris — Interior dining room of Bouillon Chartier via Tripadvisor

First thing first – When you’re in the mood for some of the best steak frites in Paris, you can’t go wrong with Bouillon Chartier. Trust me, your taste buds will be thanking you on this one.

Located in the bustling Grands Boulevards district, Bouillon Chartier has been a Parisian staple since 1896, serving up delicious and traditional French fare in an unforgettable Art Deco setting. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time when you enter this historic brasserie, and I can’t think of a more quintessential French restaurant experience.

Not only is Bouillon steeped in history, but it’s also one of the best places in Paris for cheap eats when you’re visiting on a budget. That’s a win win in my opinion!

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the steak frites. Picture this – a tender, juicy steak cooked to absolute perfection, paired with some of the crispiest, golden-brown frites you’ve ever had. One bite, and you’ll know why it’s the best in Paris. But don’t just take my word for it – you need to experience it for yourself.

What makes Bouillon Chartier extra special is its fun atmosphere, friendly service, and the fact that this place has been providing Parisians and travelers alike with delectable food for over a century! They must be doing something right, right?

Plus, here’s an interesting tidbit: this beloved restaurant started its journey as a workers’ canteen back in the day, serving up affordable and mouthwatering meals. Talk about staying true to its roots!

So, next time you’re wandering through the streets of Paris, be sure to add Bouillon Chartier to your Paris travel guide for a dining experience you won’t forget. Your Parisian foodie adventure wouldn’t be complete without savoring the best steak frites that this iconic brasserie has to offer!

⚡ Related read: 8 Restaurants with the Best Breakfast in Paris

2. Le Relais de l’Entrecôte

le relais de l'entrecote paris — Le Relais de l’Entrecôte via Tripadvisor

Ah, Paris – the city of love, lights, and…steak frites? That’s right! If you find yourself wandering the beautiful streets of Paris and craving some top-notch steak frites, look no further than Le Relais de l’Entrecôte. It’s an absolute must-visit for anyone seeking a mouthwatering combination of tender entrecôte, crispy French fries, and a dash of Parisian flair.

Le Relais de l’Entrecôte has been serving up authentic steak frites in the 6th Arrondissement of Paris for years. When you step into this popular bistro, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time to the days of berets and striped shirts – très chic! But enough about the atmosphere, let’s get to the good stuff – the food.

The moment you sit down at Le Relais de l’Entrecôte, there’s only one question to answer: how do you want your steak cooked? Forget poring over a lengthy menu, your only decision here is well done, medium or rare. The meal begins with a refreshing walnut salad followed by an extra tender sirloin steak, served with their famous secret sauce and a side of delicious homemade French fries, a combination that has given this place the title of best steak frites in Paris.

It’s hard to twist your arm for reservations at Le Relais de l’Entrecôte, because, well, they don’t have any! Queueing alongside a lively mix of tourists and locals along the Parisian street is just part of the experience. Trust me, the wait is worth it!

While you’re savoring each tasty bite of your entrecôte and French fries, consider this little fun fact: The secret sauce, which is pretty much the culinary equivalent of the Da Vinci Code, has been kept under lock and key for generations! The recipe remains a closely guarded family secret, adding an air of mystery and intrigue to your already perfect meal.

If you find yourself in Paris and want to make the most of your culinary experience, don’t miss out on a visit to Le Relais de l’Entrecôte. With its mouthwatering steak frites, cozy atmosphere, and captivating history, this place has got a certain… “Je ne sais quoi!”

3. Au Pied du Cochon

au pied du cochon paris — Au Pied du Cochon, Paris via Tripadvisor

If you’re a fan of steak frites, which you obviously are if you’re here, one place you absolutely must visit while you’re gallivanting in the stunning French capital is Au Pied du Cochon. Trust me, it’s worth the detour!

Nestled in the heart of the bustling Les Halles district, Au Pied du Cochon has been delighting locals and tourists alike since 1947. Talk about standing the test of time! Get ready to feast your eyes on a menu that celebrates traditional French cuisine.

Now, you might arrive at this iconic Parisian restaurant and be tempted to try their famous escargot—maybe even brag about it to your friends back home when you share your foodie adventures. But let me tell you, what you should really be ordering is their divine steak frites.

Here’s a little secret for you: Au Pied du Cochon is a mere stone’s throw away from the bustling 11th arrondissement, a.k.a. the hub of incredible Paris restaurants. Frankly, you’ll be spoilt for choice in this charming corner of the city.

So, let’s dive into the pièce de résistance: their steak frites. What sets Au Pied du Cochon’s version apart from the rest? To put it simply, it’s all in the details. We’re talking about perfectly seasoned, juicy steak cooked just the way you like it. Too rare? Too well done? Non, non, mon ami! It’s going to be spot on.

But wait, there’s more. You can’t have amazing steak frites without, well, frites! Au Pied du Cochon’s golden, crispy fries complement the tender steak in a heavenly partnership. You’ll be convinced that the chef whispered sweet nothings to those potatoes before turning them into the perfect side dish.

Now, aren’t you just itching to hop on a plane and give your taste buds the Parisian experience they deserve?

4. Bistrot Paul Bert

bistrot paul bert paris — Bistrot Paul Bert via Tripadvisor

My oh my are your taste buds about to take a thrilling ride at Bistrot Paul Bert. Nestled in the bustling 11th arrondissement, this charming bistro is an unmissable gem for meat lovers visiting the City of Lights.

As you step into Le Bistrot Paul Bert, you’ll feel an immediate connection to Parisian culture. The restaurant has been enjoying a legendary status since William Bernet opened it, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts worldwide. The warm and vibrant atmosphere, combined with a mouth-watering wine list, sets the stage for a memorable dining experience.

But let’s get to the star of the show – their heavenly steak frites! Bistrot Paul Bert is famous for its amazing beef offerings, but what makes their steak frites stand out is the sublime filet mignon taking center-stage on the plate. Cooked to perfection and served with crispy golden fries, your taste buds will dance with joy after just one bite.

As you indulge in the delectable flavors, don’t forget the pièce de résistance, the incredibly rich and creamy peppercorn sauce. Once combined with the filet mignon, it creates a perfect symphony of taste that’ll have you wanting more – long after you’ve finished your plate!

Now you might think that’s all there is to it, but let me tell you a little secret: Bistrot Paul Bert’s dessert is not to be missed. If you have a sweet tooth, just imagine capping off your meal with a decadent chocolate tart – the ideal finale to your scrumptious steak frites adventure.

5. Au Boeuf Couronné

au boeuf couronne paris — Au Boeuf Couronné interior via Tripadvisor

Oh, dear steak frites lover, wait until you hear about this gem in the heart of Paris: Au Boeuf Couronné. Located in the 19th arrondissement, in the historic La Villette neighborhood, this restaurant is a carnivore’s paradise. La Villette was once the epicenter of livestock markets and slaughterhouses in Paris since 1867, which adds a little extra flavor to the history of this place!

Picture yourself stepping into this steakhouse, greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of prime beef cuts sizzling away. Au Boeuf Couronné is well-known for its delectable variety of beef cuts, and trust me, it’s worth every euro you spend.

Now, let’s talk about the pièce de résistance – the steak frites plate. Imagine a perfectly cooked, tender piece of beef, so flavorful that it almost melts in your mouth. The frites are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and they make the perfect companion to the star of the show. Besides being a visual feast, the taste of this dish is something you’ll remember for years to come.

So, why is Au Boeuf Couronné’s steak frites the best in Paris? Well, not only because of its scrumptious flavors and prime location but also thanks to its rich history in the City of Lights. This restaurant has seen it all, and it continues to serve top-quality food with a side of Parisian charm.

Next time you’re wandering around Paris looking for a true culinary delight, remember Au Boeuf Couronné. It’s not just any Parisian restaurant, it’s the place where history and flavor intertwine, creating a dining experience you’ll never forget.

And hey, it’s not every day you get to dine where they once wrangled cows, right?

6. Le Café du Commerce

If you’re on the hunt for the best steak frites in Paris, there’s this fantastic little gem you absolutely have to check out: Le Café du Commerce. Situated in the charming 15th arrondissement near the trendy Saint-Germain-des-Prés, this Parisian delight is perfect for every meat lover and even offers something for your vegetarian friends!

Le Café du Commerce has been serving up delicious French cuisine for years, making it a beloved spot among locals and visitors alike. Its quirky yet elegant decor will make you feel at home immediately. After securing a table on the first floor, you’ll be all set to dive into a culinary adventure.

Let’s talk steak frites, shall we? As you sink your teeth into the perfectly cooked and mouthwateringly tender steak, you’ll almost hear the lovely sounds of an Edith Piaf song in the background. Accompanied by crispy, golden frites, this dish is sure to give your taste buds a Proustian experience that will have you craving more.

But wait, there’s more! It’s not just the phenomenal steak frites that’ll have you swooning at Le Café du Commerce. The menu boasts a range of stunning French dishes, including some scrumptious vegetarian options. Have a friend who’s not into steak? They won’t feel left out while indulging in their flavorful and satisfying veggie dishes.

You know what’s really cool about this place? The story goes that the café’s founder was once a famed chef in the City of Love who got so fed up with seeing people eating mediocre steak frites that he decided to open his own restaurant to rescue them! Talk about a savior.

So put on your foodie beret and make sure you don’t miss the glorious steak frites at Le Café du Commerce. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

7. L’Aller Retour

L'aller retour paris steak frites — Steak frites plate at L’Aller Retour via Tripadvisor

Sill not convinced and wondering where you can find the best steak frites in Paris? Well, look no further than the cozy and inviting L’Aller Retour.

Tucked away in the trendy 11th arrondissement, L’Aller Retour specializes in delightfully juicy hanger steaks, also known as “onglet” in French. Trust me, once you experience the mouth-watering goodness of their perfectly cooked skirt steak, with just the right balance of tenderness and flavor, you’ll understand the hype.

As you walk into L’Aller Retour, you’ll immediately feel the warm, dimly-lit atmosphere. It’s the kind of intimate environment that makes you want to stay a little longer, maybe even order an extra glass of wine. After all, you’re in Paris, right?

Ready for a little secret? L’Aller Retour is actually owned by the same guy who runs the highly acclaimed Severo. No wonder the quality of their prime cuts of meat is top-notch! It’s like getting premium Le Severo experience, but without the steep price tag.

Your taste buds are in for a treat with their steak frites plate. Paired with crispy fries and a small salad or veggies, it’s a meal that will have you daydreaming about it long after you’ve left Paris. The best part? L’Aller Retour keeps their prices in check, with dishes ranging from €14 to €24.

So there you have it, dear steak frites aficionado. L’Aller Retour is definitely the spot to spoil yourself with some of the best steak frites in Paris.

8. La Bourse et La Vie

la bourse et la vie paris — La Bourse et La Vie via Tripadvisor

One spot you can’t miss is La Bourse et La Vie located at 12 Rue Vivienne, right in the 2nd arrondissement. It’s close to the Palais Royal and the historic stock exchange (hence the name, which translates to “the stock market and life”), making it the perfect location to enjoy some quality French cuisine.

Now picture this: you stroll into this cozy gem of a restaurant, feeling the intimate ambiance, and admiring its contemporary twist on classic design. Immediately, you sense that you’re in for a memorable dining experience – and you won’t be disappointed. Sure, the price range is on the higher end, but trust me, once you taste their melt-in-your-mouth steak frites, you’d say the quality justifies it.

You might be wondering what sets La Bourse et La Vie apart from other Paris restaurants. Well, let me tell you. Their secret is not-so-secret anymore: natural wines. This place has an exceptional selection that pairs beautifully with their dishes, elevating the dining experience to new heights.

As for the main attraction – their steak frites – you’d be hard-pressed to find better in Paris. Prepared to perfection, the steak is juicy, tender, and flavorful, while the frites are crispy and golden. It’s the kind of dish that makes you believe in magic, or at least the magic of French food.

Here’s a little anecdote for you: rumor has it that French icons from the nearby stock exchange have frequented La Bourse et La Vie for their lunch breaks since the restaurant’s inception. So, while you savor their divine steak frites, you can imagine the titans of finance and culture who’ve shared those same flavors in this very spot.

9. Le Voltaire

le voltaire paris — Le Voltaire via Tripadvisor

Ever wandered along the Seine, yearning for a taste of some of the best steak frites in Paris? Well, my friend, you’re in for a treat: head over to the chic Left Bank bistro, Le Voltaire. Situated in the lively Latin Quarter and just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the Seine, this quintessential Parisian restaurant oozes class and charm.

What sets Le Voltaire apart from the vast ocean of Parisian eateries? For one, its history. You may be in one of the 11th arrondissement’s gems. A place well-regarded by the fashion-savvy, it’s got a bit of celeb cred that’ll make you feel like one of the elites.

Another thing that adds a twist of intrigue to this Paris treasure is the prix fixe (fixed price) menu, which is a meticulously crafted selection of mouthwatering French dishes – including, of course, their take on steak frites.

Now, let’s dig into that steak frites experience, shall we? Your taste buds will be dancing with delight as you bite into the perfectly cooked filet mignon. Served medium rare like the culinary gods intended, the delicious steak somehow harmonizes with the unbelievably light and crispy frites. As your teeth sink into that tasty morsel of meat – trust me, you’ll wonder if you’ve fallen right into steak heaven.

Oh, and let’s not forget about the other savory offerings at Le Voltaire. Salmon aficionados, you’re in for a treat! Delight in the delicate flavors as you fork into a beautifully cooked salmon dish. Seriously, if you’re not a seafood fan, these Parisian restaurants might just convert you.

10. La Maison de l’Aubrac

Last but certainly not least on the list of places with the best steak frites in town, we have La Maison de l’Aubrac. This gem of a restaurant is tucked away at 37 rue Marbeuf in the chic 8th arrondissement, just waiting to dazzle your taste buds.

Here’s an interesting tidbit for you: La Maison de l’Aubrac sources their beef from the Aubrac region, which is famous for its superb quality. You can just imagine how tender and flavorful your steak is going to be, right?

As you sit down at your table, you’ll feel the welcoming atmosphere of this traditional French eatery. But let’s talk about what you’re really here for – that mouthwatering plate of steak frites. Trust me when I say it’s going to blow your mind.

The steak is cooked to perfection, paired with crispy, golden pommes soufflé that’ll make you wonder why you ever settled for regular fries. And don’t even get me started on the aligot. This heavenly side dish of cheese-infused mashed potatoes will make you weak in the knees. It’s no wonder La Maison de l’Aubrac is considered the best in Paris for steak frites.

Now, if you’re a dessert person (who isn’t?), do yourself a favor and try their Paris-Brest. It’s a French pastry classic filled with praline cream, and it’s the perfect way to end your meal here. The delightful combination of textures and flavors is just the cherry on top of your outstanding dining experience.

Thanks for reading!

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Thanks for reading my guide to where to find the best steak frites in Paris. I hope you enjoy eating your way through this city as much as I have!

Best Steak Frites in Paris: A Local’s Guide