A Unique Dining Experience Above Paris at Madame Brasserie
Imagine sitting at a stylish restaurant perched inside the Eiffel Tower, with panoramic views of Paris unfolding beneath your feet. For about $83 per person, you can enjoy a 1.5-hour, three-course lunch at Madame Brasserie, located on the tower’s first floor. This experience is quite the highlight for anyone craving a mix of culinary excellence and iconic sights.
What makes this tour special? For us, it’s the chance to savor French dishes crafted by Chef Thierry Marx, and to do so while soaring above the city’s rooftops. Plus, the skip-the-line access means you’re not wasting precious sightseeing time in queues—an often-overlooked but significant perk. A second highlight is how the interior architecture of the Eiffel Tower itself becomes part of your meal ambiance, blending history with modern design.
A potential consideration: The experience is somewhat structured, with pre-assigned tables and specific timings, so it’s not ideal if you’re seeking a totally flexible or spontaneous meal. Also, if you’re a fan of exploring every inch of the tower, remember that this experience is limited to the first floor—upgrades to the second or top levels aren’t included.
This tour best suits travelers who value a memorable setting combined with quality cuisine. It’s perfect if you’re celebrating a special occasion, like a birthday, or simply want to add a touch of luxury to your Paris trip with a convenient, well-organized experience.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Prime Location: Dine inside the Eiffel Tower on its first floor with breathtaking views of Paris.
- Culinary Excellence: Chef Thierry Marx crafts seasonal French menus, offering a gourmet experience.
- Skip the Line: Priority access saves time, with a dedicated entrance and lift.
- Flexible Seating Options: Choose between intimate interior or panoramic Seine views.
- Inclusive Drinks: The Madame Menu pairs your meal with champagne or wine, enhancing the experience.
- Authentic Atmosphere: Enjoy a lively, daytime setting in a world-famous landmark.
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The Eiffel Tower Lunch at Madame Brasserie: A Detailed Look
Setting the Scene in the Heart of Paris
Your day begins with collecting your lift tickets at 11:30 AM from the welcome desk, conveniently located at the restaurant between the north and east pillars. Access is through the south entrance, with the added perk of skip-the-line security checks—a real time saver. The brief walk and security process mean you’re inside the Eiffel Tower before most visitors even get to the queues, setting an anticipatory tone for the experience.
Once inside, you’ll find yourself in a modern, warm, and inviting space. The interior design balances elegance with comfort, and table assignments are made in advance—be sure to arrive early to get the most out of your visit. The atmosphere is lively but refined, with the daytime light streaming through grand windows, illuminating your meal and the spectacular views outside.
The Culinary Journey in the Sky
Chef Thierry Marx’s menu is a highlight. You have two options: the Brasserie Menu featuring classic French fare like hearty starters and mains, or the Madame Menu, which takes things a notch higher with a more indulgent approach. Both menus include three courses, made from fresh, seasonal ingredients, ensuring each dish reflects Parisian culinary artistry.
Expect your starter to be a thoughtfully crafted dish—reviews mention a salad with mayonnaise that some found a bit heavy, but overall, the food quality impresses. The main course, such as tender beef, is often praised for its perfect cookery—”the beef just fell apart,” as one reviewer noted. Desserts tend to be lighter, with some guests commenting on the variety and quality.
More Great Tours NearbyDrinks and Toasting
The Madame Menu includes a glass of champagne or wine, which many reviews highlight as a lovely touch. Soft drinks and beer are also available, alongside sparkling or still filtered water. Coffee or tea rounds off the meal, providing a warm finish to your culinary journey.
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The Views and Atmosphere
You’ll love the stunning views over Paris, whether you choose a seat in the Cur Brasserie with large windows or opt for the Seine View, which offers a picture-perfect scene of the Trocadéro and La Défense. During your lunch, you might catch glimpses of landmarks like the Sacré-Cœur or the Arc de Triomphe, all framed by the tower’s structure.
Guests often remark on the lively daytime atmosphere, with many noting that the restaurant is bustling yet comfortable. Several reviews mention the professionalism of the staff, with friendly service that helps make the experience seamless. The entire process—from ticketing to seating—feels well-organized, which is a relief in a busy tourist spot.
Post-Lunch Exploration
Once your plates are cleared, you’re free to explore the first floor of the Eiffel Tower. This level includes fascinating exhibits about the tower’s history and the experience of standing on a glass floor with Paris sprawling beneath. For those interested, the option exists to climb up to the second level (though the ticket isn’t included here), and some guests enjoy taking photos on the glass floor—”a real thrill,” one reviewer called it.
What the Reviews Say
The consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with a 4.4/5 rating based on over 1,600 reviews. Guests frequently highlight the spectacular views, excellent service, and high-quality food. Many mention that skipping the queues made a big difference—the process was described as “easy” and “well-organized,” allowing more time to enjoy the experience.
Some reviews point out minor drawbacks, like the lack of flexibility in table choices or the additional cost for top-floor access. One guest noted that coffee and tea are not included in the meal, which is worth knowing so you aren’t surprised.
Value for Money
While the price tag of about $83 per person might seem steep, many guests agree it’s justified by the priority access, high-quality cuisine, and unique setting. The experience is a perfect blend of luxury and practicality, making it ideal for special occasions or a memorable splurge during your trip.
Who Should Consider This Experience?
This tour is best suited for travellers who appreciate good food in a striking setting. It’s also perfect if you’re looking to save time with skip-the-line access and want a seamless, well-organized experience. Families celebrating special milestones, couples on romantic getaways, or solo travelers who love a combination of great views and cuisine will find much to enjoy here.
However, it’s less ideal if you prefer total flexibility, or if you want to explore all levels of the Eiffel Tower beyond the first floor. Also, if you’re traveling with large luggage or pets (except assistance dogs), you’ll need to plan accordingly.
FAQ About the Madame Brasserie Lunch Tour
Is the lunch experience inside the Eiffel Tower?
Yes, the lunch takes place inside Madame Brasserie on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower.
What is included in the tour price?
Your ticket to the first floor, a three-course meal, a glass of champagne or wine (if you choose the Madame Menu), filtered water, and coffee or tea are included. You also get priority access to the lift.
Can I choose my seating or view?
Seats are assigned in advance based on your booking. You can select your preferred seating at the time of booking, such as the interior or Seine View.
Is there access to the higher floors?
No, the ticket includes access only to the first floor. To visit the second or third levels, separate tickets are needed.
What about timing and arrival?
You should collect your tickets at 11:30 AM and arrive early to go through security and avoid rush. The lunch lasts about 1.5 hours, with check availability for specific starting times.
Are drinks included with the meal?
The Madame Menu includes a glass of champagne or wine. Soft drinks and beer are available, but additional drinks cost extra.
What if I have a dietary restriction?
While specific dietary accommodations aren’t detailed, the menu is seasonal and crafted from fresh ingredients, so you might inquire in advance if you have special needs.
Final Thoughts
Choosing to dine inside the Eiffel Tower at Madame Brasserie offers a rare mix of gourmet French cuisine and breathtaking Parisian views. It’s a particularly good option for those wanting a reserved, organized experience that saves time and adds a special touch to your visit.
The combination of delicious food crafted by a renowned chef, priority access, and the iconic setting makes this a worthwhile splurge if these elements matter to you. It’s perfect for celebrating a milestone, impressing a loved one, or simply treating yourself to an extraordinary meal in a world-famous landmark.
For travelers who value authentic, well-organized experiences, and want to avoid long queues, this tour ticks all the boxes. Just remember that it’s a scheduled, structured experience—so if you’re after spontaneous exploration or top-floor access, you’ll want to look elsewhere.
In the end, this lunch inside the Eiffel Tower isn’t just about the meal; it’s about a moment in one of the world’s most romantic destinations—a memory to cherish long after your trip ends.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Lunch Experiences in Paris
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