If you’re looking to combine a quintessential Parisian experience — exquisite food and unforgettable views — the Paris Early Evening Dinner at Madame Brasserie might just be worth considering. This booking, offering a 3- or 4-course gourmet meal, guarantees not just a sit-down dinner but also priority access to the Eiffel Tower’s first floor, bypassing those long lines. For around $177.88 per person, booked on average 77 days in advance, the journey promises a memorable evening blending food, fun, and one of the world’s most iconic landmarks.
What I really like about this experience is how it offers reserved seating, which means you’re not just another face in a crowd — you have a dedicated table, often with Seine-view options for the 4-course menu. Plus, there’s a chance to explore the first-floor observation deck both before or after dining, giving you a complete Eiffel Tower experience without the usual crowds. I also appreciate the attention to local ingredients and the restaurant’s warm, inviting atmosphere, which elevates the meal from mere tourist trap to a genuine celebration of French cuisine.
One thing to keep in mind, however, is that getting to the restaurant involves some waiting and logistical planning, especially for the elevator and security checks. A handful of reviews point out that lines and delays are common, so arriving early — at 6:30 pm, as recommended — helps ensure you get the full experience without stress. Also, if you’re expecting a peaceful, intimate dinner, be prepared for the restaurant’s shared tables and the potential for being seated next to strangers, a common feature in such popular venues.
- Priority Access: Skip the long ticket lines with pre-booked reservations and go straight to the elevator.
- Flexible Dining Options: Choose between 3 and 4 courses, with the latter offering seab-view seating in some cases.
- First Floor Access Included: Enjoy a visit to the Eiffel Tower’s first-floor observation deck, providing great photo and viewing opportunities.
- Sustainable Cuisine: The menu focuses on healthy, seasonal ingredients sourced locally, reflecting a genuine effort toward quality and sustainability.
- Pre-Dinner Activity: Scan a QR code and play a fun Mystery Game, adding a playful twist before your meal.
- Timing and Logistics: Arrive early to navigate security, check-in, and elevator queues, especially during peak times.
If you’ve ever dreamed of dining atop the Eiffel Tower, this experience might hit the sweet spot. The two-hour tour begins at the designated meeting point, just outside the Eiffel Tower, with an emphasis on getting there early — arriving around 6:30 pm — because the wait times to access the tower can be significant, as some reviews note. The good news is, once inside, you bypass the long ticket lines, thanks to your pre-booked reservations, and head straight up with the elevator.
The initial part of the experience involves some exploration of the first level before sitting down to your meal. While the views from the first floor are stunning, they are more expansive than panoramic. You’ll see real-life Paris in all her evening glow, with some reviews describing it as “jaw dropping” and “spectacular.” If you opt for the 4-course menu, you’ll have the choice of seating by the Seine, adding a layer of romance and grandeur.
The restaurant itself boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, with attentive staff such as “Jenna,” praised for her knowledge and friendliness in reviews. The menu, reflecting a commitment to healthy, seasonal ingredients, features a selection of appetizers, mains, and desserts that generally receive high marks for taste, even from those used to more familiar (or American) flavors. Some reviewers mentioned that food quality is good, with delicious, well-presented dishes that make the price worth considering.
What truly elevates this tour is the combination of exceptional views and quality cuisine. Multiple guests highlight the beauty of dining with the Eiffel Tower in view, especially from the panoramic windows if you choose a window seat. Many reviews mention the friendly service and the overall “special” feeling, making it ideal for celebrations, romantic evenings, or simply splurging on a bucket-list experience.
However, some challenges are worth noting. The waiting times for elevator trips can be lengthy, sometimes requiring multiple trips up and down while awaiting your turn, a point made by quite a few reviewers. There’s also the practical matter of navigating access to the tower — some reports mention confusion about where to check in, or longer-than-expected delays just to get inside. The shared-table seating arrangement can also mean being seated next to strangers, which might not be ideal for those seeking intimacy or privacy.
Despite this, the overall value feels solid, especially considering the unique combination of food, views, and skip-the-line access. It’s a highly rated experience, with 157 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, and many guests agreeing that it’s a “must-do” for visitors who want a special evening without the hassle of waiting in lines or attempting to find a good restaurant nearby.
This experience suits travelers who appreciate a scenic, memorable setting for their meal — whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting a unique way to dine in Paris. If you’re comfortable with a potential wait and shared tables, you’ll find the value in the views and the memorable atmosphere. It’s a great choice if you want priority access to the Eiffel Tower along with a taste of the local cuisine.
However, those seeking intimate, quiet, and highly personalized dining might prefer other options. This tour is best for groups, families, or couples who are okay with a lively, tourist-friendly environment. It’s also ideal for people who like an interactive touch, with the QR code activity adding a playful element to the evening.
- Offers a balance of quality cuisine and visual spectacle, making it a well-rounded Eiffel Tower experience.
- Pre-booking guarantees entry and helps avoid long lines, especially useful since the average time to book is nearly three months in advance.
- View options (Seine or panoramic) add a special touch, especially during sunset or early evening.
- Reviews emphasize good service and delicious food, with many guests describing their experience as “amazing” and “well worth the cost.”
- Timing is crucial — arriving early helps you navigate queues and enjoy the entire experience without stress.
- The experience’s value lies in its combination of access, ambiance, and scenery rather than solely on the food.
Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, children under 4 don’t need a lift ticket and can join the experience, but make sure to inform the provider in advance.
How do I access the restaurant?
You start at the Eiffel Tower’s main meeting point near Av. Gustave Eiffel, where you’ll check in, then bypass long lines with your mobile ticket and head straight up the elevator.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience, allowing for a full refund if needed.
Are drinks included in the price?
Depending on your chosen menu, drinks such as wine or champagne might be included — check the specific options available when booking.
Is there a dress code?
While not strictly enforced, smart casual is recommended to match the upscale atmosphere.
Can I visit the 2nd or the 3rd floor of the Eiffel Tower?
No, the ticket only grants access to the first floor, plus dining and the first-floor observation deck. The higher levels are not included.
What is the duration of the whole experience?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours, from check-in to completion of your visit.
What makes this experience different from just buying a ticket to the Eiffel Tower?
Pre-booked dining, guaranteed seating, a gourmet meal, and a visit to the first-floor observation deck make this a more memorable and hassle-free way to enjoy the Eiffel Tower.
This dinner experience at Madame Brasserie offers a blend of exceptional views, good food, and easy access, making it a highlight for many visitors to Paris. Just remember, arriving early and being prepared for some wait times will help you make the most of it. Consider this a brilliant way to turn a trip to the Eiffel Tower into a genuine dining adventure.
More Dinner Experiences in Paris
More Dining Experiences in Paris
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- Paris: Elegant Dinner with Drinks in the Eiffel Tower
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