Paris: Eiffel Tower Dining, Gustave Menu at Madame Brasserie

If you’re dreaming of a night that combines iconic scenery with a touch of French elegance, this Eiffel Tower dining experience might be just what you’re after. We’ve looked into it closely, and while we haven’t personally sat down at Madame Brasserie (yet), plenty of travelers have shared their impressions, giving us a pretty clear picture of what to expect. Think of it as a chance to enjoy authentic French cuisine, sip Champagne with a view, and soak in the magazine-worthy sights of Paris from the first floor of the Eiffel Tower.

Two standout features caught our eye: First, the stunning panoramic views that you get while dining—imagine watching the city glow as the sun sets or as the Eiffel Tower itself twinkles under the night sky. Second, the carefully curated menu crafted by Chef Thierry Marx, emphasizing seasonal, local ingredients and beautifully presented dishes. On the flip side, one thing worth mentioning is the occasional inconsistency in food quality, as some reviews note. Still, for most, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that’s worth considering, especially if you’re a fan of fine dining with a view.

If you’re after a special night out in Paris—whether celebrating a milestone, wanting a memorable date, or simply craving a refined dining experience high above the city—this tour has a lot to offer. Just keep in mind that it’s a curated, somewhat upscale experience, and the price tag reflects that. Still, the combination of elegant cuisine, spectacular scenery, and the Eiffel Tower’s magic makes it a pretty compelling choice.

Key Points

• Unbeatable views of Paris from the Eiffel Tower’s first floor create a memorable backdrop for your meal.
• A 3-course Gustave Menu offers seasonally inspired French dishes prepared by a renowned chef.
• Champagne and wine pairing elevate the dining experience, adding a splash of celebration.
• Skip the lines with priority lift access, making your evening smoother and more relaxed.
• Post-dinner exploration includes wandering the first floor with panoramic views and interactive exhibits.
• Booking flexibility allows cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the experience is wheelchair accessible.
• Cost is approximately $152 per person, which some see as good value considering the setting and food, but others may find the portion sizes on the smaller side.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect From This Experience

This dinner isn’t just about the food; it’s an entire sensory event. You’ll start your evening by collecting your lift tickets at the Madame Brasserie welcome desk, located conveniently between the north and east pillars of the Eiffel Tower. From there, you skip the long security lines, heading straight into a warm and inviting space that blends modern design with classic Parisian charm.

Once seated in the Cur Brasserie area, you’ll find yourself amid soft lighting and delicate decor, with a view of the illuminated Eiffel Tower that seems to glow just for you. The experience begins around 6:30 PM or 9:00 PM, depending on your preferred time slot, both times offering equally enchanting views of Paris — whether the city is bathed in sunset hues or sparkling under starry skies.

The Gustave Menu: A Culinary Showcase

The star of the night is the 3-course Gustave Menu, which reflects Chef Thierry Marx’s dedication to seasonal, local ingredients. You can expect to start with a refined appetizer designed to tantalize your palate and build anticipation for what’s to come. Main courses are versatile, offering options like tender meats, delicate fish, or vegetarian dishes, each carefully prepared to highlight the richness of French culinary traditions.

Dessert is often the highlight for many, and reviews mention their desserts are as beautiful as they are delicious—though some have pointed out that certain items, like the vegan options, can feel a bit small or not as fresh as hoped, with some dishes like the appetizer featuring tomatoes that weren’t quite at their best. That said, most guests rave about the presentation and flavor, appreciating the artistry that goes into each plate.

The Beverages and Toasting

Complementing the meal, you’ll be served a glass of Champagne to start, heightening the celebratory mood. Followed by a carefully selected wine pairing, your glass will be filled with options that enhance the flavors of each course. Filtered water and artisanal coffee or tea round out the offerings, giving you a well-rounded dining experience.

The Post-Dinner Experience

After your meal, you’re encouraged to explore the first floor of the Eiffel Tower. It’s not just a quick walk; you’ll be able to soak in the panoramic views in every direction, see some interactive exhibits, and really feel the atmosphere of this iconic monument at night. Many reviews highlight that this is a fantastic way to extend the experience and truly appreciate the setting.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Practical Details: Is It Worth the Price?

At about $152 per person, this experience definitely isn’t cheap, but when you weigh the costs against the exclusivity, views, and level of service, many find it worthwhile—especially for a special occasion. The price includes your lift tickets to reach the first floor, a 3-course meal, Champagne, wine, water, and coffee, so there are no hidden costs once you’re there.

However, keep in mind that souvenir photos and lift access to the second and third floors are not included, which could be a consideration if you’re a photo enthusiast or want to go higher. The experience is designed for groups of up to 8 people per booking, with tables assigned in advance—so you won’t get to choose your spot, but the staff aims to seat everyone in the best possible way.

What’s the Value?

Most guests agree this is good value for the unique experience of dining on the Eiffel Tower, especially considering the views and the quality of the food. Yet, some reviews mention the portion sizes, especially for vegan options, can be smaller than expected, and a few have expressed disappointment with inconsistency in food quality. One traveler from Australia even mentioned that their booking didn’t appear initially, though it was resolved.

Accessibility and Practicalities

The experience is wheelchair accessible, which is a thoughtful touch. Dress code is smart casual—think neat but comfortable. If you’re bringing an infant under 4 years old, it’s best to inform the provider beforehand. As the entire Eiffel Tower is a non-smoking zone, you won’t find any smoking areas inside, and large bags, weapons, or drinks brought from outside aren’t allowed.

Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit

• Book early: Slots fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
• Choose your time wisely: Sunset dining offers a magical transition from daylight to evening lights.
• Arrive prepared: Collect your lift tickets at the welcome desk to skip lines.
• Dress smart casual: It’s a refined setting, but no need for tuxedos or ballgowns.
• Be aware of portion sizes: If you’re very hungry or have dietary restrictions, plan accordingly.

Our Honest Take

This experience is perfect if you’re looking for a memorable, elegant night out in Paris with a view that’s hard to beat. The combination of delicious food, champagne toasts, and panoramic city views makes it stand out. We loved the way the setting highlighted Paris’s romantic charm, and many reviews praised the knowledgeable service and stunning vistas.

That said, it isn’t flawless. Some guests noted inconsistencies in the food quality, which seems to be a minor issue compared to the overall atmosphere. Portion sizes for vegan dishes and desserts might feel small, especially if you’re quite hungry. It’s also a pricier option, but if your goal is a special, upscale experience—this ticks many boxes.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy fine dining, remarkable scenery, and are willing to pay for an exclusive experience. It’s less ideal if you’re on a tight budget or prefer casual meals, but for those wanting a memorable highlight in Paris, it won’t disappoint.

FAQs

Is the dinner on the first or second floor of the Eiffel Tower?
You’ll dine on the first floor, with lift tickets included to skip the lines. Access to higher floors isn’t part of this experience.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Is the experience suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, it’s wheelchair accessible, making it accessible for those with mobility needs.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers a 3-course meal, a glass of champagne, two glasses of wine, filtered water, coffee or tea, and lift tickets to the first floor.

Are there options for dietary restrictions?
Vegetarian and vegan options are available, but some reviews mention concerns about freshness and portion sizes. It’s best to specify your dietary needs beforehand.

What is the dress code?
Smart casual is recommended—think neat but comfortable attire suitable for an elegant setting.

Can I bring a large bag or luggage?
Large bags and luggage are not allowed inside, and security checks are in place. Plan to leave large items elsewhere.

Final Thoughts

Choosing to dine on the Eiffel Tower at Madame Brasserie offers a blend of spectacular views, gourmet French cuisine, and a touch of romance that’s hard to match. It’s a perfect option for celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a unique Parisian experience. While it’s not without minor hiccups—like portion sizes or occasional food inconsistencies—the overall sense of elegance and the unforgettable scenery make it a worthwhile splurge.

If you value a refined atmosphere, excellent wine pairings, and “dinner with a view,” this is a solid pick. Just remember to book ahead, dress smart casual, and embrace the magic of Paris from high above. This experience will leave you with memories of a truly special night in the City of Lights.

You can check availability for your dates here: