A brief history of Paris's great restaurants: Bofinger, the Alsatian grande dame of Bastille

Established in 1864 just a stone's throw from the Bastille, Bofinger is one of the oldest and most emblematic brasseries in Paris. Born of a breath of Alsatian air in the heart of the capital, it has embodied the spirit of the great popular and elegant restaurants for over 150 years, with its spectacular decor and generous menu of specialties.

A look back at the history of a gourmet monument that has stood the test of time.

A pioneering brasserie in the heart of Paris

It was in 1864, just after the Franco-Prussian war, that Frédéric Bofinger, a native ofAlsace, set up his establishment on rue de la Bastille. At a time when Parisians were discovering beer as a convivial beverage, Bofinger was a pioneer: the first brewery to introduce draught beer in Paris. The place quickly became a meeting place, attracting the bourgeoisie, artists, politicians and locals alike. Its reputation continued to grow, particularly after its expansion and spectacular renovation during the Belle Époque.

Exceptional Art Nouveau decor

Bofinger's identity also lies in its exceptional setting, making it one of the most beautiful brasseries in Paris. The restaurant is adorned with a colorful glass dome, Art Nouveau sconces, carved woodwork, mosaic floors and engraved mirrors. Every detail evokes a bygone Paris, that of the heyday of the Republic, post-opera dinners and literary banquets. The salon particulier, with its leather banquettes and stained-glass ceiling, offers a hushed atmosphere ideal for special occasions and business lunches alike.

• To be read
• A brief history of Paris's great restaurants: Lucas Carton, imperial Paris at the Madeleine
• A brief history of the great restaurants of Paris: Drouant, literary temple of the Prix Goncourt
• A brief history of Paris's great restaurants: La Grande Cascade, former imperial pavilion

Alsatian cuisine in the heart of Paris

What made - and still makes - Bofinger famous is its legendary sauerkraut, considered by many to be the best in Paris. Filled with a variety of meats, steamed potatoes and melting cabbage, it's served in large, old-fashioned casseroles. Other must-tries include kouglof, flammekueche, vol-au-vent, escargots and homemade foie gras. And let's not forget the seafood bench featuring oysters, crab, shrimps and whelks, in the purest tradition of luxury brasseries.

A strong foothold in Parisian life

Open every day until midnight, Bofinger follows the rhythms of the city, from post-show dinners to drinks with friends, Sunday lunches and large family gatherings. Its location near the Place de la Bastille makes it a popular place in the best sense of the word: lively and friendly.

Over the decades, the establishment has played host to numerous political, cultural and media personalities, seduced by its timeless charm. Few addresses can boast such a link between history, décor and gastronomy. With its chandeliers, Alsatian specialties and refined yet convivial atmosphere, Bofinger is a true monument of Parisian brasserie.

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