How do you choose among Paris’s hundreds of restaurants? It’s a matter of instinct, of course, but also of context and mood. So, since everything is always different—the people you’re with, the occasion, your budget—Sortiraparis.com has put together a list of original and unusual restaurants to keep on hand... Whether you want a fun evening with your kids at a friendly spot or to discover a new bar concept in Paris with friends, the answer is here.
1/ On a Perched Tree
Our absolute favorite is undeniably Sur un arbre perché. A clever, quirky concept that lets you escape the Parisian rush for a meal. In this original, out-of-the-ordinary venue, relaxation is the aim: Shiatsu massages before dinner and meals served on a swing. Step through the door and you’re transported to another world. The chef offers a varied, refined menu built around premium ingredients such as truffle or Iberian pork “pata negra.” A one-of-a-kind place, perfect for a pure moment of happiness, by day or by night. For best results, book Friday or Saturday evenings during swing-service times. If you’re flexible, going at the start of the week offers more privacy.
2/ La Cristal Room Baccarat
In a different vein, discover the Cristal Room Baccarat. In the heart of the drawing rooms on the first floor of Maison Baccarat, the prestigious venue gives free rein to Guy Martin, a starred chef, supported by David Angelot... The space has been reimagined by renowned designer Philippe Stark. The lavish setting of this unusual restaurant provides the perfect backdrop for a romantic evening.
3/ Le Coco de Mer
Want to travel without leaving Paris? Coco de Mer is for you! This original Seychelles-inspired restaurant invites you to savor delicious island specialties. All in a setting that will turn heads, as Coco de Mer brings the Seychelles to the heart of Paris year-round. Feet in the sand, you can sip a cocktail (including a delicious coconut punch) or sample traditional dishes. Ingredients are specially imported to France to honor the concept. A little paradise you won’t want to leave!
4/ Le Nuno’s Bar
Nuno’s Bar sparked an innovative, original concept, even patented. Try the Tá pago—“it’s my round” in Portuguese—and walk away without breaking the bank! The concept lets you enjoy Portuguese specialties at a bargain, or even for free... Just choose a three-digit number, roll three dice, and if the numbers appear, the meal is on the house! For drinks, the three managers are a bit less strict and you get three tries... This quirky, informal concept is guaranteed to entertain!
5/ La Table Ronde
La Table ronde, the Marais’ new restaurant, is an unconventional spot. A place where chefs can take the stage for a one-man show before 16 hungry guests. In a room where the kitchen is the star, discover the artistry of chef-artists who come and bare their craft before you.
6/ Dans le noir
What if you ate without seeing a thing? Or sipped a drink with every light turned off? That’s the idea behind the quirky restaurant Dans le noir. Blindfolded or not, flavors shift in your mouth and your entire sensory experience is upended. In this original venue, you’ll be guided by visually impaired staff. One of Dans le noir ’s aims is to raise awareness about disability. A single, novel course and a new relationship with taste—this is the promise of a concept that’s now well established.
7/ Le Blue Elephant
Picture a jungle in the heart of Paris, in the 11th arrondissement... A mysterious retreat where you savor exotic, spicy dishes in a setting that invites you to travel. Here you’ll taste royal Thai cuisine, prepared by a team of Thai chefs. On ambiance, Blue Elephant pulls out all the stops: lush greenery, trees and orchid arrangements, a soundscape that pleases the senses. It’s a genuine journey to Thailand right in the city.
8/ Le Sud
Love the South of France and its cuisine? Dreaming of Provençal vibes? Don’t miss Le Sud, an original and offbeat restaurant offering delectable Provençal fare in a meticulously crafted setting. Olive-grove courtyard, a patio, a fireplace-lit dining room, décor perfected to the last detail… Le Sud leaves nothing to chance. A perfect escape from Paris’s gray routine. You’ll find fish, sun-kissed vegetables, and delightful sorbet… not to be missed!
9/ La table des gourmets
La table des gourmets sits just steps from Châtelet. At first glance, you’d think it’s another brasserie, another restaurant among many. Not at all. La table des gourmets is a standout: an offbeat restaurant in the heart of Paris housed in a 12th‑century former chapel. The setting is historic, elegant, and always refined. You feel like you’re stepping back in time. On the plate, there’s a broad range of traditional French classics and tempting desserts.
10/ Wagon Bleu
For those who dream of a ride on the Orient Express, don’t despair! If you can’t swing a trip to Venice on that legendary train, you can still dine in one of its former cars. Original and atmospheric, this restaurant Wagon Bleu serves meals in a fully restored vintage car from the 1925 Orient Express. Expect classic Parisian bistro fare (tartares, magrets, etc.) in a magical setting. A true invitation to travel!
11/ Aquarium de Paris
The Paris Aquarium now hosts after-dark dining several times a month, offering an exceptional meal right at the heart of the venue. The head chef will prepare a special menu so you can dine with a giant tank towering over 8 meters and containing more than 600,000 liters of water.
Don’t hesitate to mix up your burger/Japanese restaurant/brasserie routine and try these quirky meals tucked away around Paris!
