la tour d'argent facts

Michelin-Starred La Tour d'Argent In Paris Served Historic Kings

If you had the chance to take a step inside the film "Ratatouille" and experience the world-class dining experience of the fictional Gusteau's restaurant, would you? As it turns out, you can come pretty close. The restaurant that was the source of inspiration for the film has a long history of serving well-known guests. Launched back in 1582, La Tour d'Argent in Paris is said to be the oldest restaurant in the city, and its doors have seen the faces of royalty and prominence ever since.

When the restaurant first opened back in the 16th century, it was a hotspot for kings and princes because it was a safe location for those of noble status to dine in public (it's located across the Seine River where the king's palace used to be). King Henry IV inaugurated the use of the first fork at the restaurant, which was an up-and-coming utensil only seen in Italy at the time.

On a more extravagant note, four world emperors — Alexander II, Czar of the Russian Empire, the Czarevitch Alexander III, Wilhelm I, King of Prussia, and Germany's Prince Otto von Bismarck — met for dinner at La Tour d'Argent in 1867, feasting on a hefty menu that included five appetizers, six main courses, and four desserts.

La Tour d'Argent gets a makeover

Since its days serving historical kings, La Tour d'Argent has welcomed other high-profile guests like Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, John F. Kennedy, Richard Nixon, Mikhail Gorbachev, and Boris Yeltsin. The restaurant became known for its iconic pressed duck, classic and ornately decorated interior, and Michelin-star status . Before 1996, La Tour d'Argent held three Michelin stars, dropping to one that year. To modernize the space and turn things around, the restaurant closed for remodeling between April 2022 and August 2023.

The renovations were put in the hands of architect Franklin Azzi, who wanted to retain the restaurant's historical charm. The recipe for the famous pressed duck remains the same, but the kitchen has expanded into the face of the dining room, so guests now have an impressive view of their meal being prepared. Moreover, there are now three additional spaces for breakfast, drinks, and overnight stays. In the fall of 2023, La Tour d'Argent served its 1,178,727th pressed duck — a numerical symbol of its long and rich history.

photo credit: Sara Lieberman

La Tour D'Argent

Sara Lieberman

April 5, 2024

For the best old-school, elegant dining experience in Paris, book a table at this legendary restaurant that dates back to 1582. The recently redesigned dining room, with window walls and a mirrored ceiling that reflects the Seine below, is the platonic ideal of a Parisian restaurant. And that’s not hyperbole—it inspired Ratatouille . The panoramic view and classic French food make it the place to be for an anniversary, engagement, or an absurdly over-the-top meal.

Beyond its decor, which looks a bit like you’re on a modernized cruise ship complete with teak walls and royal blue carpeting, the service is outstanding: Expect a rotating crew of servers in suits who whizz around in an almost symphonic fashion. Once they remove the silver Christofle plates, the show begins and the classic, reliable French hits keep coming. 

While pressed duck “Frédéric Delair” is their signature dish, and prepared tableside—blood and all—it’s not included in the prix fixe lunch, but a delicious roasted version is. The John Dory fish with parmesan foam and arugula pesto wow with its lightness. Even the various breads served with the meal, like turmeric focaccia, are memorable and feel like their own course. And allow them to wheel over the giant wine book that’s longer than a George R. R. Martin novel—the cellar has over 300,000 bottles, or, more accurately, 299,920 since over one million dollars in wine was nabbed . Gulp.

Food Rundown

Tasting menu, food rundown, suggested reading.

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La Tour d'Argent

Paris , france.

"The pillowy quenelle, a pike-perch dumpling native to Lyon and environs and one of my favorite classical French dishes, was simply brilliant in an impeccably deconstructed sauce Nantua (crayfish sauce) that was a richly flavored as it was astonishing light. Ornamented by a little ring of tiny girolles mushrooms, baby peas, and fragile leaves of salad burnet and woodruff, the quenelle was very beautiful, too."

Recommendations

David Lebovitz

"The other starter I’ve liked was the baked pike quenelles, two mousse-like ovals sitting over a bed of duxelles of mushrooms, blanketed in cream sauce. They’re quite delicious…and filling."

Alexander Lobrano

François Simon

"A gastronomy muséified but disarming like these beautiful dumplings in their powdery and silky abstraction."

Elizabeth Auerbach

"Gorgeous quenelles which had a feather-light texture and a lovely intense pike flavour."

The Mighty Rib

"And now, the actual appetizer – a bowl of Pike dumplings or “Quenelles De Brochet” which are served on a bed of mushrooms duxelle and covered in Mornay sauce. I thought they were perfect. Very light and fluffy but extremely rich with that creamy, cheesy Mornay sauce."

Georgie Bailey

"Entrée – quenelle, traditionally Lyonnaise a big fluffy fish dumpling. This one a celebration of pike. Delicate, pretty and not at all fishy this dish is gorgeous."

"These pike dumplings were the highlight of the meal. The quenelles were soft and flavorful, with a rich, thick sauce."

The Snowlady Chronicles

"Anyhow, I loved the pike quenelles, although it was filling. Really, it could have been a main dish."

Antonio Galloni

"For one, I absolutely loved the old rendition of the quenelle de brochet façon André Terrail and wondered what new twists might lead to in revisiting old classics. The new version is undoubtedly lighter and airier, just as good as the old rendition, only different."

Have you eaten at La Tour d'Argent recently?

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The Earful Tower

Paris and France by Oliver Gee

Tour d’Argent: The iconic Paris restaurant in 7 intriguing figures

We’ve just had lunch at the iconic Paris restaurant, the Tour d’Argent. In short: It was the best dining experience I’ve ever had. And the new renovation job is excellent.

It was a four-course Michelin meal with a view over the Seine, the Notre Dame, and the rooftops of Paris. And it was two-and-a-half hours in Parisian heaven.

We’ve collected seven intriguing facts and figures about the restaurant, which are compiled below with some practical details for your own potential visit.

The Earful Tower podcast episode

In this episode, Lina and I will take you inside the famed restaurant and you’ll hear our thoughts as we dine.

We also discuss our thoughts on the renovation job from 2022/2023. Listen below or wherever you get your podcasts, and scroll down for the facts about the restaurant.

1) 1582: The year the Tour d’Argent was built

The first incarnation of la Tour d’Argent opened in 1582 as an inn on the ground floor. The Tour d’Argent, meaning “the Silver Tower”, takes its name from from the glistening champenoise stone with which it was originally built.

In the 16th century, the restaurant catered toward royalty, aristocrats and nobility, providing a safe place for the elite to dine. Many Kings of France dined at the Tour d’Argent and legend has it was here that King Henry III first discovered a fork, which was at the time the latest sensation from Italy.

2) 1936: The year the Tour d’Argent moved upstairs

In 1922, owner André Terrail purchased and merged buildings 15 and 17 on Quai de la Tournelle, which allowed him to add a new top floor. And so it was in 1936 that the restaurant shifted from the ground floor to the top, allowing a more contemporary design including those enormous bay windows for panoramic Paris views.

3) 16: Total months for the new renovation

From April 2022 to August 2023 the Tour d’Argent had an extensive renovation. The project, led by interior designer Franklin Azzi, brought the restaurant into the 21st century.

The designers added a metallic, “kinetic ceiling”, a carpet inspired by the Seine, and expanded the kitchen into the dining room.

Artist Antoine Carbonne added a modern fresco he called “Perle”, which depicts a medieval-inspired map of Paris that blurs the lines between fantasy and history.

Down on the ground floor, where the original Tour d’Argent was located, is the Bar des Maillets d’Argent. Cafe by day and cocktail bar by night, the bar’s 1930s design pays homage to the last years the Tour d’Argent was located here. Perched on the very top floor is the Tour d’Argent’s bar Le Toit de la Tour , which is a reservation-only rooftop bar .

4) 1,179,385: The number of the duck we had

In 1890 Frédéric Delair codified the recipe for canard au sang (pressed duck), which specified preparation, sauce and service. To maintain the recipe’s longevity he decided to start numbering the ducks served. To this day, the restaurant gives clients an embossed card recording which number duck they received. We shared duck number 1,179,385.

5) 300,000: The number of wine bottles in the cellar

The Tour d’Argent is famous for having one of the largest wine collections in the world. The cellar, guarded around the clock, contains more than 300,000 bottles – with some of the bottles dating back to the 18th century. Of those wines, about 15,000 are offered to diners in the 5kg, 400-page “anthology wine bible”.

Safe to say, we’re not wine connoisseurs. When we spoke about the wine list on the podcast, we admitted to being “first pagers”, and were more than happy to go with the recommendations of the sommelier.

6) €150: Cost for one lunch at the Tour d’Argent

There is certainly a sliding scales of prices at the Tour d’Argent. For €150 (160USD and 250AUD) per person, you can have the four-course lunch (drinks not included). On the other end of the scale is the nine course tasting menu for dinner priced at €1,582 (1,680USD and 2650AUD).

Our four course lunch included scallops, sea bass, roasted duckling, and clementine meringue ( see the November menu here ). Quite simply: It was the best dining experience of my life. Pure excellence from chef Yannick Franques. You can hear more about the food in the podcast episode.

7) 1: The number of Michelin stars for the Tour d’Argent

The Tour d’Argent was once the proud owner of 3 Michelin stars, but lost one in 1996, and another in 2006. In recent years they have been on a mission to reclaim their stars.

Practical details for the Tour d’Argent

• Tour d’Argent address : 15 Quai de la Tournelle, 75005 Paris
• Peruse the menu here.
• Book a table here . 

Here’s The Earful Tower’s podcast episode again in case you missed it, with new episodes every Monday. The next one will be all about “U is for…”. You’ll have to tune in next week to find out what it is.

Do you like The Earful Tower? Become a Patreon member of The Earful Tower  here  to support this show and get extras (this week including some extra pictures from the restaurant).

Want to do a tour? Get in touch on The Earful Tower’s social media or book directly here . The music in this episode is from Pres Maxson, find his Substack here .

Interested in finding more fine-dining restaurants? Here is a list of six classic restaurants on the left bank .

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Description

Community facilities.

It was in the 16th century that the first inn opened its doors at its current address at 15 quai de la Tournelle, a stone's throw from Notre Dame. Since then, the Tour d'Argent has maintained its reputation for fine dining and its famous signature dish, duck in blood .

Stone with a silvery sheen

On the banks of the Seine , an inn was opened in 1582, adjacent to the Château de la Tournelle, built of silvery stone. This was the birth of the Hostellerie de la Tour d'Argent, which has seen all the world’s luminaries pass through over the centuries: Mme de Sévigné , Tsar Alexander III, the King of Prussia, Bismarck and many others.

André Terrail bought the Tour d'Argent in 1911, and gave it its present appearance by raising the building in 1936. The restaurant was installed on the 6th floor, thus enjoying an unrestricted view of the Seine . A family business for three generations, the Tour d'Argent is now run by André Terrail, his grandson.

Reopening in 2023

More than a year after its closure for major renovation, the Tour d'Argent reopen its doors, responding to a double challenge: preserving the richness of its heritage while bringing its practice into the 21st century. Fans can rest assured that they will find all the fundamentals of the restaurant: the sumptuous wine cellar , the duck theatre, the exemplary service in the dining room and the cuisine of Chef Yannick Franques . Since his arrival at the Tour d'Argent in 2019, this Best Worker of France (MOF) reinterprets the great culinary classics with elegance and brio.

Around the Tour d'Argent

You can enjoy the excellence of the Tour d'Argent in three other establishments. At 19 quai de la Tournelle, you will find the Rôtisserie d'Argent a typical Parisian bistro where the dishes are cooked to the rhythm of the spit. At number 13, La Petite Épicerie de la Tour offers exceptional products that highlight the expertise of French artisans. A few metres away, in the rue du Cardinal Lemoine, Le Boulanger de la Tour makes organic breads, pure butter viennoiseries and pastries, such as the famous Tour d'Argent chocolate eclairs.

As soon as this historic Parisian restaurant — the flagship of French culinary arts in the Paris Region — reopens, lovers of good food will be able to enjoy the great classics and the new recipes on the menu.

Access and contact

Days and opening hours.

Warning, this place is temporarily closed

Spoken languages

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I ate lunch at one of the oldest restaurants in Paris that's loved by royalty and world leaders, and the Michelin-starred meal transported me back in time

• La Tour d'Argent claims to be the oldest restaurant in Paris, serving diners since 1582.
• The restaurant is a Parisian institution, and was reportedly used as inspiration for " Ratatouille ."
• I ate lunch in its dining room overlooking the Notre Dame and was enchanted by its service.

La Tour d'Argent claims to be the oldest restaurant in Paris, and has been serving diners since 1582.

Translating as "the silver tower," La Tour d'Argent is a Paris fine-dining institution, and has been visited by everyone from King Henry IV, to Queen Elizabeth II , according to Time Out.

With a Michelin star — it previously had three until 1996, as noted on the Tour d'Argent website — the restaurant remains one of Paris' most revered destinations, steeped in history and tradition. 

However, its Michelin Guide demotion prompted the restaurant to announce its largest-ever renovations earlier this year, aiming to "bring the restaurant into the 21st century," according to the website.

Ahead of its nine-month closure in May, I went to eat lunch in its historic dining room.

The restaurant is located near the center of Paris, in the city's 5th Arrondissement.

The building sits just beside the Seine river, and is about a 20-minute walk from major central train stations Gare de Lyon and Chatelet Les Halles.

The restaurant is so iconic, it was reportedly used as inspiration for the Pixar classic "Ratatouille."

As the restaurant has been operating for so long without changing its classic ways, elements of it were used by the movie studio to help craft the image of the fictional restaurant "Gusteau's" , according to Lonely Planet.

When I first stepped inside the downstairs waiting area, it was like immediately being transported back a few centuries.

From the preserved wooden paneling to the old cushioned furniture, it was clear from the start that this place was not going to be similar to any dining experience I've ever had.

While I've had the fortune of eating at a few fine-dining restaurants with Michelin stars, none of their interiors felt as traditional or classic as this.

From the downstairs area, we were escorted through a hallway toward a private elevator to the dining room on the sixth floor.

The doorman and staff were quick to show us through the narrow hallway toward the elevator that would take us up to the dining room.

However, it very was easy to get distracted and slowed down by the decorations on the wall.

The walls leading up to the private elevator are lined with portraits and pictures of famous diners, including Queen Elizabeth II.

Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Phillip visited the restaurant in 1948 as their first official trip outside the Commonwealth after marrying a few months prior, according to writer and historian Lauren Kiehna's blog, the Court Jeweller.

Other notable former patrons include US presidents and world leaders.

Alongside Her Majesty, US presidents John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon could be spotted in photographs, as well as former USSR and Russian leaders Mikhail Gorbachev and Boris Yeltsin.

After taking the elevator to the sixth floor, I was immediately taken aback by the spectacular dining room.

The floor and tables were all incredibly detailed, enhanced by the floor-to-ceiling windows that fill the room with natural light.

Everywhere you looked, blue and gold dominated the room, with tiny detailing on every surface.

I was surprised by the unimpeded views over Paris, including Notre Dame, which remains under reconstruction.

Having been owned by the same family since 1911, the restaurant's dining room was moved up to the sixth floor to maximize its views over Paris in 1936 , according to Condé Nast Traveler. 

The sixth-floor room gives unparalleled views over the city and Notre Dame.

However, due to the fire that destroyed much of the cathedral , it remains mostly covered by scaffolding while they repair the building. This is on track for completion in 2024 , according to The New York Times.

At the table, we were first greeted with a huge silver plate, engraved with the restaurant's name.

While impressive, it was shortly removed after we sat down, and was clearly just there to be decorative.

The menu items were the epitome of traditional French haute cuisine, or "high cooking," but mine didn't have any prices listed.

Our menu was very traditional, including dishes like quenelles — a technique of creating perfect three-sided ovals — as well as hake and snails for starters. Mains included scallops or guinea fowl. 

It felt a little stereotypical to order snails in France, so I chose the hake. 

But since I didn't make the reservation, my menu didn't include a price. This was a deliberate decision implemented by the owner centuries ago, according to our waiter, due to social traditions at the time.

Our three-course set lunch menu was 105 euros at the time of visiting, or around $115. A six-course menu is also available for triple the price, as well as a la carte options with mains ranging from 95 euros to 125 euros each, or $100 to $130.  

While the food menu isn't extensive, the wine list is the opposite, weighing over 15 pounds, with over 320,000 bottles to choose from.

The restaurant prides itself on its selection of wines, claiming to have one of "the most technically perfect cellars" in Paris, as noted on the Tour d'Argent website. 

The cellar is so prestigious and valuable, that while under German occupation during World War II, the owner flew across France for one night to brick up the entrance to protect its contents before flying back , according to Bonjour Paris.

The silver tower logo of the restaurant was on everything. It was even stamped on the butter.

It's clear that the restaurant is very detail-oriented, as I struggled to find an item on the table that wasn't personalized with the logo and founding date.

Once we ordered the wine, it arrived with its own trolley and basket.

Every element of service felt well-considered, with the smallest of touches helping to make the hospitality here extraordinary.

The wine basket is used for transportation up the dumb waiter from the cellar, where a worker located the bottle among the hundreds of thousands of bottles stored.

Each dish that arrived was a clear display of French fine-dining techniques.

From the hake to the scallops, and chocolate souffle to finish, all dishes were made by chefs who were very technically proficient, with each dish beautifully presented, utilizing advanced techniques rarely seen outside of fine dining.

But despite all that, we weren't blown away by our meal.

On top of the decor, the dishes felt as though they'd also remained untouched since 1936. While that's often one of the key drawing points for visitors, I've eaten far more interesting meals for less money, such as wildly creative 20-course tasting menus that include Wagyu beef fat fudge.

However, I've never eaten anywhere with this level of high-quality service.

After lunch, a quick visit to the restaurant's attached bakery and deli was the perfect final touch.

The separate bakery on the opposite corner of the building was only opened in 2016.

From the adjacent location, customers can now buy the bread used in the restaurant as well as a range of viennoiseries — leavened pastries such as croissants and pain au chocolat — according to the Tour d'Argent website.

You can also buy a range of items such as preserves and wines under the Tour d'Argent name.

Browsing the shop after our meal was a perfect way to end the experience, and further demonstrated the attention and care the restaurant gives to its branding.

It's clear from our trip that the restaurant aims to provide a whole experience for its diners, as opposed to just providing a good meal.

Particularly in an age where service in fine dining restaurants seems to be becoming increasingly casual — which isn't a bad thing, in my opinion — this lunch was certainly a memorable one.

Despite service at the restaurant being faultless, I can see why they feel the need to modernize.

My experience at La Tour d'Argent was one I'll never forget. I really enjoyed my time here as it gave me an insight into luxury I wouldn't be able to experience elsewhere.

As the restaurant closes to modernize itself and its menu, I can understand why. While I really enjoyed my lunch, the restaurant's devotion to upholding the past also seemed to limit the menu. 

It will be interesting to see how the restaurant plans to change while preserving itself, but I'm glad I came here when I did to get a once-in-a-lifetime taste of classic French luxury.

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Restaurant La Tour d’Argent Review: Insights on its Fine Dining Experience

The restaurant’s dining room, located on the 6th floor, offers one of the most beautiful and romantic views of Paris, looking over Notre Dame. This place opened in 1582, and the King Henri the Third discovered the fork when he had dinner there. Frederic Delair, its owner under the Third Republic, created the famous “canard au sang” or “Canard Tour d’Argent” and decided that each duck would bear a number.

Nestled on the banks of the Seine River in Paris , La Tour d’Argent is a legendary French restaurant known for its sumptuous cuisine and unparalleled dining experience. With a history dating back to the 16th century, this prestigious establishment has earned its reputation through offering exceptional food, impeccable service, and an intimate atmosphere that keeps patrons returning for more.

Upon entering La Tour d’Argent, guests are immediately captivated by the stunning views of the restaurant’s location. Overlooking the Île Saint-Louis and Pont de la Tournelle , the setting provides a breathtaking backdrop for a Michelin-starred meal. As visitors settle into their seats, they are taken on a delectable culinary journey through expertly prepared French dishes, accompanied by an extensive wine list that rivals the finest cellars in the world.

The continued accolades and praise for La Tour d’Argent in reviews from reputable sources such as Condé Nast Traveler and Fodor’s stand as a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to maintaining its esteemed status. Both locals and travelers seeking a memorable dining experience will find that La Tour d’Argent truly delivers on its promise of exquisite cuisine and unparalleled service.

Table of Contents

History of La Tour d’Argent

Terrail family ownership, king henry iv and frédéric delair, world war ii and renovations, ambiance and decor, dining room and views, elevator and atmosphere, signature dishes, pressed duck, ratatouille, wine selection and sommelier, la tour d’argent’s wine cellar, menu and french cuisine, tasting menu, making a reservation, anniversary and special occasions, formal service and hospitality, reviews and accolades, frequently asked questions, what are the prices like at la tour d’argent, what is the dress code for la tour d’argent, is la tour d’argent currently open, what are the notable dishes at la tour d’argent besides pressed duck, what are some key highlights of their wine list, what is the history behind la tour d’argent’s long-standing reputation.

La Tour d’Argent is considered one of the oldest restaurants in Paris , claiming to have been founded in 1582. It was originally built as an inn in the 16th century and later became a renowned restaurant. Throughout its long history, the establishment has been under the ownership of the Terrail family.

The restaurant boasted having had King Henri IV among its frequent patrons. However, the documentation to support this claim is lacking. In the late 19th century, under the management of Frédéric Delair, La Tour d’Argent gained further prominence and prestige in the culinary world.

During World War II, the restaurant’s business was affected, but it persevered. Post-war renovations helped to modernize and improve the establishment, maintaining its prestigious reputation. Today, La Tour d’Argent serves its guests with a breathtaking panorama of Paris, overlooking the Seine, Notre-Dame, and Ile Saint-Louis.

La Tour d’Argent has a rich and storied history as a Parisian institution, captivating the imaginations of diners and visitors for centuries.

La Tour d’Argent is a truly captivating dining experience offering an elegant ambiance and remarkable views. The dining room, located on the 6th floor, boasts a sophisticated and classic French luxury design. From here, diners can enjoy an exquisite view of the city, including the iconic Notre Dame , the stunning Île Saint-Louis, and the beautiful Seine. The atmosphere in the dining room is refined, with well-spaced tables and good lighting, enabling guests to comfortably take in the breathtaking scenery.

Upon arrival at La Tour d’Argent, guests are greeted by a unique and impressive elevator that transports them to the 6th floor dining room. This historical touch adds a sense of grandeur to the overall experience. The restaurant’s atmosphere is enhanced by its rich culinary heritage, which dates back to 1582, and the attentive, knowledgeable staff that adds to the overall prestigious dining experience. The blend of tradition and contemporary charm found at La Tour d’Argent creates a memorable ambiance that perfectly complements its location along the Quai de la Tournelle.

See Related: Restaurant Le Djurdjura Nanterre

La Tour d’Argent is acclaimed for its signature dish, Pressed Duck . This exceptional dish offers guests a unique culinary experience and is steeped in history. The duck is roasted to perfection, imparting a rich, tender flavor to the meat. The highlight of this dish is the elaborate pressing technique used to extract juices from the carcass, which forms the base for a rich sauce. The restaurant has a long-standing tradition of presenting guests with a numbered certificate to commemorate their meal.

Another standout feature on La Tour d’Argent’s menu is the Fish . They offer a variety of expertly prepared fish dishes, showcasing the freshest, high-quality ingredients. The selection may vary depending on seasonality and availability, but guests can expect well-crafted dishes with exceptional flavors and textures. The restaurant’s chef presents a creative spin on traditional fish dishes, resulting in an unforgettable culinary experience that speaks to the establishment’s culinary heritage.

Lastly, the Ratatouille at La Tour d’Argent is a dish worth mentioning. This classic French dish is elevated by the skilled preparation and thoughtful presentation that the restaurant is known for. The dish combines fresh, seasonal vegetables in a perfectly seasoned and balanced manner, making it a delightful accompaniment to other dishes on the menu.

In conclusion, the signature dishes at La Tour d’Argent demonstrate the restaurant’s dedication to providing guests with a memorable dining experience that is both rooted in tradition and elevated by modern culinary expertise. The Pressed Duck, various Fish dishes, and Ratatouille stand out as exceptional offerings on their menu, each deserving of the praise they have received.

See Related: Le Tsuba Hotel

La Tour d’Argent’s wine list is highly renowned and an essential component of the overall dining experience. The restaurant’s wine cellar is a treasure trove for wine enthusiasts, boasting an astounding collection of 450,000 bottles . This extensive selection caters to a diverse range of tastes and preferences, offering something for everyone.

The sommelier at La Tour d’Argent plays a vital role in guiding guests through their wine journey. Offering expert advice and detailed explanations of each wine’s characteristics, the sommelier ensures that every diner finds the perfect bottle to complement their meal. Whether a guest prefers a complex red or a crisp white, the sommelier has the knowledge and expertise necessary to make an informed recommendation.

The wines stored in La Tour d’Argent’s wine cellar originate from various regions, allowing diners to enjoy vintages from famous wine-producing areas. With a particular focus on French wines, the cellar provides a delightful opportunity to explore the rich and nuanced flavors that have become synonymous with France’s esteemed wine culture.

In conclusion, the Wine Selection and Sommelier section of La Tour d’Argent is an integral aspect of the restaurant’s identity and success. With an exceptional wine list, an impressive wine cellar, and knowledgeable sommeliers to guide diners through their sensory experience, guests at La Tour d’Argent can expect a truly memorable and enjoyable evening.

See Related: Hôtel Acacias Etoile

The renowned restaurant La Tour d’Argent serves some of the finest French cuisine in the heart of Paris. The establishment has a rich history, and its culinary offerings showcase the best of French gastronomy, prepared by their talented chefs. The dining experience at La Tour d’Argent is made all the more memorable by its enchanting views of the Seine and Notre-Dame.

A highlight of La Tour d’Argent’s menu is their Tasting Menu, allowing guests to indulge in an extraordinary selection of dishes, showcasing the chef’s culinary prowess and the inn’s commitment to using high-quality ingredients. Each dish is meticulously presented, reflecting its elegance and impeccable taste. The Tasting Menu is ever-changing, designed to delight both regular patrons and newcomers by offering new and exquisite flavors.

On the Tasting Menu, you may find an array of beautifully crafted dishes, such as pan-seared foie gras, confit or roasted duck prepared in various ways, and delicate seafood masterpieces. The skillful use of seasonal produce ensures the freshness and vibrancy of each dish. The meal is further elevated by being accompanied by expertly chosen wines, perfectly complementing the flavors of each course.

At La Tour d’Argent, the French cuisine goes beyond just the Tasting Menu. They are also known for their classic pressed duck (canard à la presse), a signature dish that has helped define the restaurant’s reputation for excellence. This unique delicacy, which involves pressing the duck’s carcass to extract its rich juices, exemplifies the high level of skill and dedication that the chefs at La Tour d’Argent possess, ensuring a truly memorable dining experience for all who visit.

La Tour d’Argent, a prestigious restaurant in Paris, is an excellent choice for those celebrating an anniversary or any special occasion. To secure a table at this iconic establishment, making a reservation in advance is highly advisable. Reservations can be made through their website, ensuring a smooth process for guests.

The opulent setting of La Tour d’Argent offers an ideal backdrop for commemorating life’s significant milestones. Patrons can admire breathtaking city views while indulging in exquisite French cuisine expertly crafted by talented chefs. With its rich culinary history and distinguished wine list of over 300,000 bottles, this restaurant sets the stage for an unforgettable experience .

While making a reservation for your special celebration, be sure to inform the staff of any specific requests or considerations related to the nature of the occasion. This will enable them to accommodate your needs best and enhance your experience at La Tour d’Argent.

La Tour d’Argent is renowned for its formal service and hospitality. The experience begins as soon as guests step inside the establishment. The restaurant’s staff ensures that guests feel at home from the moment they arrive, making every effort to create a sense of comfort and belonging.

The waitstaff at La Tour d’Argent is professionally trained, offering impeccable service throughout the course of the meal. They are knowledgeable about the menu items and the restaurant’s extensive wine list, which includes a jaw-dropping collection of 300,000 bottles. Their expertise enables them to confidently guide diners in pairing the perfect wine with their chosen dishes.

In addition to ensuring that every detail of the dining experience meets the highest standards, the staff at La Tour d’Argent is skilled in the art of creating a personal connection with each guest. Their warm hospitality creates an atmosphere that allows diners to feel at ease while enjoying the exquisite dining experience.

The formal service at La Tour d’Argent is not only about providing the utmost in fine dining but also about preserving the restaurant’s storied history. The establishment dates back to 1582 and has hosted illustrious guests such as Edward VII, Charlie Chaplin, and Grace of Monaco. The staff’s dedication to upholding the restaurant’s legacy is evident in both their world-class service and their commitment to maintaining the timeless ambiance of the dining room.

Overall, the combination of elegant formality and welcoming hospitality that La Tour d’Argent offers makes dining at this Parisian institution a truly remarkable experience. The staff’s attention to detail, knowledge, and professionalism ensure that guests leave the restaurant with memories that will last a lifetime.

La Tour d’Argent, a renowned French restaurant located in Paris , has received numerous accolades and rave reviews from both experts and travelers. Offering a stunning view of the Seine, Pont de la Tournelle , and Île Saint-Louis, the restaurant has maintained a reputation for its superb cuisine and impeccable service.

Although the Michelin Star count of La Tour d’Argent currently stands at one, the prestigious culinary institution has held three stars in the past. The drop in stars has not, however, diminished guests’ enjoyment of the exquisite dishes served at this historic establishment.

The restaurant has become iconic for its specialty in canard à la presse (pressed duck), with the dish often mentioned in positive TripAdvisor reviews. Satisfied guests appreciate not only the culinary mastery of the chefs but also the historic ambience of the establishment while they feast on the sumptuous offerings.

Famous personalities, both in France and beyond, have frequented La Tour d’Argent throughout the years. Celebrities seeking an elite French dining experience have made this restaurant a preferred choice, further solidifying its status among the best establishments in Paris.

In summary, La Tour d’Argent continues to be celebrated for its outstanding French cuisine, excellent service, and rich history. Its one Michelin Star serves as a testament to the restaurant’s unwavering dedication to quality dining experiences, attracting both travelers and celebrities alike.

See Related: Restaurant Les Ambassadeurs

La Tour d’Argent is a high-end dining establishment whose prices reflect its Michelin-starred status. Expect to pay premium prices for a dining experience that combines culinary heritage, a vast wine selection, and unforgettable views of Paris.

Although there is no strict dress code at La Tour d’Argent, guests are encouraged to dress smartly for the sophisticated ambiance of the restaurant. Formal attire is not required, but it is recommended to wear smart-casual clothing to match the elegant surroundings.

As of June 24, 2023, La Tour d’Argent is open. The restaurant operates from 12:00 to 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM to 10:30 PM. It is always best to check their website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on their hours of operation.

While the pressed duck is the iconic dish at La Tour d’Argent, the restaurant offers a range of creative and sophisticated dishes that showcase French culinary techniques. Some other notable dishes include their pan-seared foie gras and lobster dishes and seasonal and locally sourced ingredients incorporated into the menu.

La Tour d’Argent is known for its extensive wine list, boasting a collection of over 300,000 bottles. The selection includes rare vintages and a broad spectrum of price points, catering to wine connoisseurs and those seeking an unforgettable dining experience.

La Tour d’Argent’s reputation as a culinary institution in Paris dates back to its founding in 1582. Over the centuries, the restaurant has maintained its high standards and innovative approach to French cuisine, resulting in a unique dining experience that combines history, culinary expertise, and breathtaking views of the city.

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La Tour d'Argent finally reopens its doors in Paris

By Jade Simon

In the French capital, there are a handful of legendary addresses, whose existence and prestige we know without even having set foot there.   La Tour d'Argent , nearly five centuries after its creation, is the best example. Founded by a man named Rourteau in 1534, this elegant spot has become over the decades the favorite haunt of lovers of fine dining in Paris.

  La Tour d'Argent in Paris  

La Tour d'Argent in Paris

The restaurant is finally reopening after six months of closure since the French confinement was announced. Situated between Quai de la Tournelle and Rue du Cardinal Lemoine, visitors first walk through an opulent lounge before taking the elevator to the high-perched restaurant. Plunging over the peaceful Seine, the Cathedral of Notre-Dame and the Île Saint-Louis, the incredible view becomes even more spectacular with sunset.

La Tour d'Argent in Paris 

By Calin Van Paris

By Lilah Ramzi

Facing a blazing sky, the welcome is as warm as it is benevolent thanks to the owner André Terrail , a worthy successor of his father and his grandfather. In the kitchen, chef Yannick Franques , Meilleur Ouvrier de France, (trained in particular by Eric Frechon at Le Bristol and Alain Ducasse at Louis XV) reinterprets with great finesse the great classics of French gastronomy. On the menu? Foie gras from the Three Emperors served with warm brioche, a spider crab flavored with lemongrass and coriander with coral butter, a blue lobster roasted in its shell, curry bisque and plump bao bread and even a duckling reunion. A new dish, a duckling accompanies your meal, a tradition since 1890 and is given to the person who eats it. (For the record, the millionth was released and lived peacefully a few meters from the on the banks of the Seine). Endowed with a high level of know-how, the place makes its own bread and its own wine, served together by the team of head sommelier David Ridgway . For dessert, a gargantuan cheese platter and Mademoiselle crêpes flambéed with cognac live for guest entertainment. 

The best part? The restaurant, for the first time in its history, will now be open on Sunday for lunch. 

La Tour d'Agent   17 Quai de la Tournelle, 75005 Paris, Tel.01.43.54.23.31  

More on Vogue.fr

Translated by Constance Caiola

By Gaby Wood

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3 Compelling Reasons to Return to La Tour d’Argent

Closed since spring 2022 for extensive renovations, the legendary Michelin-starred restaurant La Tour d’Argent is once again welcoming Parisian gourmets who cherish tradition. Everything has been completely revamped with exciting new features. While the panoramic view remains as stunning as ever (along with Chef Yannick Franques' signature dishes, of course), let us tell you about the budget-friendly options that have tempted us to return without breaking the bank.

A Brand-New Bar

On the ground floor, La Tour d’Argent unveils the brand-new Bar des Maillets d’Argent , which is now an essential part of the new experience. Joyfully, in this comfortably furnished setting with ochre sofas, a fireplace, and a library, you can now sit down for a very chic breakfast starting from 9 AM. The great deal? The €19 menu includes a hot beverage, freshly squeezed juice, and pastries or toast straight from the Boulanger de la Tour (right across the street and among the best in Paris).

Prefer the aperitif team? After work, settle in at the bar for a toast with a well-shaken cocktail like the Chukker (apricot, verjus, white vermouth... €28) or the Pink Mademoiselle with calvados infused with lemon verbena, in addition to classic options available upon request.

Psst: A true all-day hangout, the Bar des Maillets d’Argent also offers daily lunch specials (veal blanquette, pike quenelle... €39) and snack options with tempting pastries (whipped cream tart, fruit charlotte…).

Passion for the Rooftop

The Roof of the Tour was previously unused. Now, secured and greened, you can enjoy an extraordinary 360° view of the Seine , Notre-Dame de Paris , and the Île Saint-Louis : the ideal spot for a romantic drink for two. On the menu, you'll have a tough choice between a glass of Chablis (€30) or Menetou-Salon (€20), unless you opt for a glass of La Tour d’Argent champagne (€28), to be paired with an incredible terrine and bakery bread (€42) or a selection of cheeses (€22).

The Bar des Maillets d’Argent is open daily from 9 AM to midnight.

The Roof of the Tour is open from Monday to Friday from 6:30 PM to midnight and from noon on weekends. Reservation on tourdargent.com

© Matthieu Salvaing Also, discover where to have breakfast in Paris and three new festive dining spots in Paris .

Clémence Renoux

Where to find it?

La tour d'argent.

15, quai de la Tournelle

75005 Paris

tourdargent.com

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Interview: David Ridgway, La Tour d’Argent

Words by Barnaby Eales

Photography by Thomas Renaut

David Ridgway, head sommelier and wine buyer at La Tour d’Argent in Paris, has spent more than 35 years transforming the legendary restaurant’s cellar into a veritable library of the finest French wines.

Home to 300,000 bottles, the cellar includes up to 40 vintages of the greatest wines of France. Prices range from €60 for entry-level wines to €20,000 for wines like 1990 Domaine de la Romanée-Conti and 1982 Pétrus. The rarest and most expensive wines, held on the cellar’s first floor, are protected by wrought iron gates and walls reinforced with battleship-grade steel.

The cellar temperature is controlled to within half a degree: 13 ° C in summer and 11.5 ° C in winter, allowing wines to mature at the optimal rate, and providing Ridgway (whose office is in the centre of the cellar) with the cool head he needs for making decisions on his annual wine buying budget of €1m.

You once described La Tour d’Argent’s cellar as a paradise of wine, saying you would never wish to work elsewhere. What have you enjoyed most about your 38 years there?

There is the beauty of tasting the finest wines on earth, of tasting the wines that you have laid down for 15 or 20 years. I have tasted the last 40 vintages of Domaine de la Romanée-Conti . They imbue you with a unique feeling of wellbeing; they transport you to a higher plain. At vineyards in Burgundy and elsewhere, I have developed relationships with three generations of vintners.

Earning the respect of customers and winemakers is very rewarding, as is the constant sharing of opinions with chefs at the restaurant. This combination, together with the exceptional view of the Seine and Notre Dame, has created a unique atmosphere at La Tour d’Argent.

You expanded La Tour d’Argent’s wine list from 100 pages with 1,000 wines in 1981, to today’s 400 pages with 15,000 wines. How have buying decisions changed of late?

I like to spend money. It is always been a bit of a problem, discussing budgets with the accountants and the restaurant owner, but now we are buying less as customers are drinking less. In Paris, we sell a maximum of 15,000 bottles a year in the restaurant, which, on average, represents close to a quarter of a bottle per person per meal. 75% of reservations are now for two people, many of whom order wine by the glass.

Customers now have a tendency to drink younger wines. We buy up to five or ten cases directly from about 40 to 50 producers. Buying wine on allocation from producers now means that if you don’t buy one year, the wines may not be available to buy the following year. The very high prices of the most recent Burgundy and Bordeaux vintages make buying them more difficult, but you can still find a Bruno Clair for €180 a bottle, for example, which shows how some red Burgundy can be relatively cheap, considering its rareness and quality.

What are customers at La Tour d’Argent drinking?

We are selling more red Burgundy than ever, but less white Burgundy. In the restaurant, most people ask for Burgundy, the Rhône and the Loire Valley.

Which celebrities or heads of state have you served there?

Mick Jagger, Prince, Robert De Niro and Dustin Hoffman, to name but a few. Woody Allen has a keen interest and knowledge in wine; his taste has evolved from Bordeaux to Burgundy over time. Elton John, who ordered a bottle of Louis Roederer’s Cristal , was extremely charming. In just one week, we had a visit from Bill Clinton, who drank a 1988 Château Margaux, and from Boris Yeltsin, who drank a 1990 Chambertin Clos de Beze. Of the two, Yeltsin drank the most.

In just one week, we had a visit from Bill Clinton and from Boris Yeltsin. Of the two, Yeltsin drank the most

Some French sommeliers complain that restaurants in Paris mark up wine by as much as five or six times the buying price…

Managing prices is a difficult daily task. We try to keep prices down, but it’s hard to explain why we are selling wine cheaper than they could be sold at auction. Some customers ask to buy a case of wine to take home with them, but I know it’s not to drink themselves – it’s to sell them on at higher prices.

I gather there was an accident with an 1811 Chateau Lafite Rothschild, which was once the oldest wine in La Tour d’Argent cellar. What happened?

A cellar assistant was up a stepladder and knocked the bottle to the ground, smashing it. He didn’t  have to pay for the wine, but I had great difficulty explaining the damage to Claude Terrail [Tour d’Argent’s then owner]. The 1811 vintage from the Year of the Great Comet was known to be a wine of exceptional quality. I daren’t think what it was worth [so-called Comet Vintages occur after comets are seen and in winemaking lore are reckoned always to be exceptional: 1811 is one of the most legendary. In 2007 a bottle of 1811 Lafite fetched €36,000 at Christie’s Los Angeles].

You joined La Tour d’Argent in 1981 after moving to France from Britain .  The management initially kept it quiet that you were British. Having now lived in France longer than in Britain, do you feel more French or British?

Until now, I never really wanted to obtain French nationality. There was no need. But now [with Brexit] I am dying to do so, but it has become a very lengthy process because so many people are applying for French nationality.

The word is that you are about to retire. Is this true?

I no longer do the restaurant service – I am rather bored of people spending the whole evening on their smartphones rather than talking to each other – however, there is no date set for my retirement.

If you had to choose five favourite wines and their vintages what would they be?

The pleasure of wine lies in its diversity. Choosing wines depends on what you are eating, your mood, where you are, how you feel and the atmosphere. If I had to, I would choose reds or whites from my go-to region, such as the 1985 vintage Côte de Beaune in Burgundy. Any Champagne from the Grand Cru villages of Chouilly and Cramant, aged 10 years in the bottle, would be marvellous. As Claude Terrail always said: ‘There is no party without Champagne.’

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L' Appartement

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Notre service en salle orchestré avec élégance et expertise par stéphane trapier, directeur de la restauration, est à la fois rythmé par les découpes et flambages, qui contribuent depuis toujours à l’atmosphère unique du restaurant, mais également par le ballet des maîtres d’hôtel en queue-de-pie. ceux-ci, par leur savoir-faire et l’excellence de leurs gestes, offrent à nos convives des instants précieux et continuent d’incarner le raffinement et l’art de recevoir à la française..

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Découvrez la nouvelle recette de saison de notre chef yannick franques : un médaillon de lotte rôti, accompagnée d’une morille farcie, et d’un mijoté de petits pois et févettes au vermouth, le tout sublimé par un savoureux sabayon au citron noir.

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