There’s something undeniably satisfying about a plate of steak frites, especially in the heart of Paris.
I’ve spent some time exploring the city’s vibrant bistros and brasseries, each offering its own twist on this classic dish. In this article, I’ll share my picks for the four best steak frites in Paris, where flavor and tradition meet.
From juicy cuts of beef to perfectly crispy fries, the experience of enjoying steak frites is a must-have when visiting this culinary capital.
Each location I recommend has its unique charm and preparation style, capturing the essence of Parisian dining.
So, if you’re ready to indulge in some of the city’s finest fare, keep reading!
1) Le Relais de l’Entrecôte
I recently dined at Le Relais de l’Entrecôte, and it was a delightful experience.
The ambiance is truly that of a classic Parisian bistro, with cozy wooden decor and charming vintage details all around.
The star of the show is undoubtedly the steak frites.
The method is simple yet effective: a fresh green salad followed by a tender beef steak smothered in their secret sauce.
The frites are crispy and perfectly golden, making it a satisfying meal.
I appreciated the attentive service throughout my visit.
The staff were quick and friendly, ensuring that I had everything I needed without being overly intrusive.
The overall experience felt warm and welcoming.
If you’re in Paris and craving a no-frills yet superb steak frites, Le Relais de l’Entrecôte is a must-visit.
Rating: 4.2 (6700 reviews)
Location: 15 Rue Marbeuf, 75008 Paris, France
Contact: +33 1 49 52 07 17
Website: Visit Website
2) Le Relais de l’Entrecôte
I recently dined at Le Relais de l’Entrecôte, and the experience was delightful.
The moment I walked in, the warm ambiance, with its vintage decor and cozy wooden tables, set the tone.
This place is famous for its specialty: a unique steak frites dish.
I started with their signature green salad topped with walnuts, which was fresh and flavorful.
The main attraction, of course, was the tender beef served with their secret sauce—truly a treat for the taste buds.
The thin, crispy frites were the perfect complement.
The service was impressively quick, and my server was attentive without being intrusive.
I appreciated the efficient approach, which added to the overall enjoyment of my meal.
The dessert selection looked tempting, but I was too satisfied to indulge further.
I love that Le Relais de l’Entrecôte has maintained its classic charm since 1959.
It’s a must-visit for anyone craving a good steak frites in Paris.
Rating: 4.2 (4100 reviews)
Location: 101 Bd du Montparnasse, 75006 Paris, France
Contact: +33 1 46 33 82 82
Website: Visit Website
3) Le Relais de l’Entrecôte
I recently visited Le Relais de l’Entrecôte, and it delivered an experience that’s hard to forget.
This place has a unique charm, reminiscent of classic Parisian bistros.
The ambiance is warm and inviting, with wooden decor and vintage posters that instantly make you feel at home.
The star of the show is, of course, the steak frites.
I started with their signature salad, which was fresh and topped with walnuts.
Then came the perfectly cooked entrecôte, served with their famous secret sauce.
The fries were thin, crispy, and just right.
Service was efficient, and I appreciated the attentive staff.
Seeing the waitresses in their stylish uniforms added to the Parisian vibe.
I can’t forget about the dessert; it was the perfect way to finish off a fantastic meal.
If you’re looking for a true taste of Paris, this spot should definitely be on your list.
Rating: 4.2 (6100 reviews)
Location: 20 Rue Saint-Benoît, 75006 Paris, France
Contact: +33 1 45 49 16 00
Website: Visit Website
4) L’Aller Retour Marais
I recently stopped by L’Aller Retour Marais, and it did not disappoint.
The atmosphere is relaxed, making it a great spot to unwind while enjoying a classic French dish.
The steak frites here are truly something special.
The steak is cooked to perfection, with a nice sear on the outside and juicy tenderness inside.
The fries are crispy and golden, served alongside the meat just as they should be.
What struck me was the quality of the ingredients.
Everything felt fresh, and you could taste the attention to detail in each bite.
The staff was friendly and efficient, adding to the pleasant dining experience.
If you’re ever in the neighborhood, this place is worth a visit.
It’s easy to see why it has garnered such positive reviews.
Rating: 4.6 (1400 reviews)
Location: 5 Rue Charles-François Dupuis, 75003 Paris, France
Contact: +33 1 42 78 01 21
Website: Visit Website
The History of Steak Frites
Steak frites is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary icon that reflects France’s rich gastronomic tradition.
My exploration of its origins and cultural significance reveals why this dish has earned its place in Parisian hearts—and plates.
Origins of Steak Frites
The combination of steak and fries traces back to Belgium, where the dish “filet américain” was born, often served with fried potatoes.
The French, however, adopted and perfected it, giving rise to the beloved steak frites we know today.
In Paris, many agree that this dish became popular in the 19th century as bistros began springing up.
It offered a filling meal for the working class.
The classic method of preparation involved a simple, juicy steak paired with perfectly crispy fries, creating a satisfying dining experience.
Cultural Significance in Paris
In Paris, steak frites represents comfort food at its finest.
Many passionate food lovers—including me—frequent bistros that have made their mark with this dish.
It’s a staple on menus and a go-to choice for both locals and tourists.
The dish also plays a part in the social fabric of dining in Paris.
Sharing a platter of steak frites over good conversation often leads to memorable dining experiences.
The casual yet indulgent nature of the meal makes it suitable for any occasion, whether it’s a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner.
Tips for Pairing Your Steak Frites
Getting the most out of my steak frites experience goes beyond just savoring the dish itself.
Pairing it right can elevate the entire meal.
Here’s how I do it.
Choosing the Right Wine
When it comes to wine, I usually gravitate towards a full-bodied red.
The richness in steak frites pairs beautifully with wines like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec.
If I’m feeling fancy, a nice Bordeaux can enhance those flavors even more.
For a lighter option, I might choose a Pinot Noir.
Its acidity balances the meal without overwhelming it.
I also love to keep a chilled bottle of Rosé handy during warmer months.
The refreshing notes work surprisingly well with both the steak and the crispy frites.
Perfect Side Dishes
With steak frites as the star, I like to keep my sides simple yet complementary.
A classic arugula salad with shaved Parmesan adds a peppery crunch.
The salad’s lightness counteracts the substantial steak.
I also enjoy a side of garlic butter or pepper sauce for drizzling.
It enhances the steak’s flavor while adding a rich element.
For those who want something more comforting, creamy coleslaw or ratatouille can also work well.
They provide additional texture and flavor without overpowering the main dish.