A local’s guide to perfect spots embodying the Belle Epoque in Paris, with wonderful Art Nouveau restaurants, cafes, spots, and even some Art Deco!
The Belle Epoque in Paris was a short period (1871 to 1914, between two wars) when Paris revealed itself, more carefree, creative, and colorful than ever.
We experienced a universal exhibition during this time, of which we still have remnants today, including the Art Nouveau portico in Square Felix Desruelles, the Petit Palais, or even the Pont Alexandre III.
But it was also a time of lightheartedness and a search for art that resulted in splendid decors – which is why I want to tell you about several Belle Epoque restaurants and cafes in Paris that I have been able to see recently.
Belle Epoque in Paris: 7 Restaurants and Cafes to Visit
In this guide, you will find some of the most beautiful restaurants and cafes in Paris, places that are very instagrammable with a history filled with beauty and the pursuit of novelty.
We will find names like Bouillon Chartier Montparnasse, or even Le Cardinal or Brasserie Mollard with its thousands of mosaics.
In any case, today we are diving into the heart of some of the most beautiful and historical spots in Paris – right into the heart of Parisian excitement at its peak.
Belle Epoque in Paris: Brasserie Vagenende
Brasserie Vagenende, which was founded just like Bouillon Racine by the Chartier brothers, offers original woodwork as well as fixed glass paintings that haven’t moved since 1904.
You find yourself in the heart of the literary Saint-Germain-des-Prés, inside an incredibly beautiful cafe-restaurant where you shouldn’t miss the fabulous glass roof or the copper coat racks.
Belle Epoque in Paris: Brasserie Mollard
Just a few seconds on foot from Gare Saint Lazare and its curious sculptures of piled suitcases and clocks, you will find Brasserie Mollard, designed by the architect of the Moulin Rouge.
Woodwork, mosaics from the Orient, and columns in Briare enamel move together in one of the best seafood restaurants in Paris.
Belle Epoque in Paris: Bouillon Chartier Montparnasse
Bouillon Chartier Montparnasse is a typical Art Nouveau marvel in Paris, dressed entirely in ceramics and glass.
Formerly known as Bouillon Rougeot, it is one of the most beautiful restaurants you can find, located right near the theaters of the Montparnasse district.
There is often a queue, but you can eat there for a very low price while surrounded by sublime floral decor.
Belle Epoque in Paris: Bouillon Racine
Bouillon Racine is located in the 6th arrondissement of Paris, inside a fascinating Belle Epoque restaurant with celadon green curves – it is a magical place, just a stone’s throw from Saint-Michel.
The gilding and plant motifs make it one of the most richly decorated spots in all of Paris, where it feels good to spend a quiet moment.
Belle Epoque in Paris: Cafe Quai 33, Gare de Lyon
Cafe Quai 33 might look much more modern than Bouillon Racine or Vagenende, but it’s housed in a 1907 Haussmannian building and has a quirky history.
It’s indeed established on the site of a former Chevaline butcher’s shop, and you can still see the hooks (painted in champagne gold near the ceiling) neighboring a historic mosaic.
Belle Epoque in Paris: Le Cardinal
Le Cardinal on the Boulevard des Italiens was recently renovated, featuring an Art Deco style and a wonderful stained glass ceiling that celebrates the elegance of the 20s and 30s.
You are near one of the poshest and most beautiful neighborhoods in Paris, and at dusk, people queue to enter Le Cardinal to spend a moment and have a bite.
Belle Epoque in Paris: Lux Bar, Rue Lepic
Nestled in Montmartre on the great Rue Lepic, which is perfect for food and shopping, Lux Bar is an authentic Parisian bistro.
It features colorful wall tiles representing old Paris, notably showing the Moulin Rouge as well as cafes and local characters.
Belle Epoque in Paris: 7 Restaurants and Cafes to Visit
Once you have finished admiring or having a coffee in one of these beautiful Belle Epoque spots in Paris, you will find other hidden treasures all over the city.
For fans of historical places, there is the Printemps department store, as well as the secret Cloître des Billettes in the Marais, or even the former Port Royal Abbey and its cloister.
The Passage Molière, along with the covered passages of Paris, are other magnificent places that I love to visit as soon as I get the chance.