10 Hidden Gem Restaurants in Paris Our Experts Love

Skip the tourist traps—here’s where the locals really eat

Let’s be honest—Paris is brimming with charm, culture, and croissants. But when it comes to food, the City of Light can overwhelm even seasoned travelers. Behind the glittering Eiffel Tower and selfie-stuffed bistros lie the real treasures: local-loved restaurants you won’t find in your guidebook.

At Journey Junction Co., we go beyond bucket lists. Our experts have scouted the arrondissements, ducked into alleyways, and followed locals to bring you 10 hidden gems that deliver mouthwatering memories without the long lines or tourist menus.

1. Le Petit Canard (9th Arr.)

Specialty: Duck, obviously.
A cozy, wood-paneled bistro run by a family from Gascony. They serve duck every way imaginable—confit, foie gras, and even duck shepherd’s pie. Intimate, flavorful, and feather-free service.

2. Mokonuts (11th Arr.)

Specialty: Mediterranean-French fusion + unreal cookies
Owned by a Lebanese-Japanese couple, Mokonuts is a lunch-only haven with rotating menus and the kind of cookies that make you rethink dessert forever. Reservation recommended—seats are limited and the hype is real.

3. Chez Janou (3rd Arr.)

Specialty: Provencal cuisine & a wall of pastis
Nestled in the Marais, Chez Janou’s vibe is effortlessly cool. Their ratatouille is legit, and the chocolate mousse? Served by the bowl. Bring a friend or three.

4. L’Assiette (14th Arr.)

Specialty: Rustic French classics, elevated
A former charcuterie turned restaurant, this Michelin Guide bistro offers robust dishes like cassoulet and house-made terrines. It’s where Parisians go when they want the real thing.

5. La Cantine du Troquet (14th Arr.)

Specialty: Modern bistro with Basque flair
Walk-ins only. Loud. Fun. Always worth it. Chef Christian Etchebest’s spot serves up steak-frites, seasonal plates, and a communal vibe that makes you feel like part of the family.

6. Clamato (11th Arr.)

Specialty: Seafood small plates
Sister to the famed Septime, but without the waitlist. Clamato dishes up inventive, ocean-fresh plates with natural wines in a cool, no-reservations setting. Go early or be ready to queue.

7. Le Servan (11th Arr.)

Specialty: Asian-influenced French fare
Run by two sisters, Le Servan reimagines French classics with Asian twists—think pork buns with escargot butter. Minimalist space, maximal flavor.

8. Au Passage (11th Arr.)

Specialty: Seasonal small plates & natural wine
Hidden on a quiet street, this lively wine bar offers creative sharing plates that change daily. A favorite among in-the-know foodies and chefs off duty.

9. Le Tricycle (10th Arr.)

Specialty: Vegan hot dogs & Afro-Caribbean bowls
Street food meets social impact. This tiny, plant-based café delivers bold flavors—jerk tofu, coconut rice, and punchy house sauces—in a fun, low-key space.

10. Le Baratin (20th Arr.)

Specialty: Classic French fare without the fuss
Legendary among locals, this Belleville institution balances hearty cooking and neighborhood charm. Come for the blood sausage, stay for the wine list and old-school vibe.

Insider Tip: How to Dine Like a Local

Reserve ahead: Many of these gems are tiny and fill up fast.
Be early (or late): Especially for no-reservation spots.
Speak a little French: Even a “Bonjour!” goes a long way.
Slow down: In Paris, dinner is meant to be savored, not rushed.

The Bottom Line

Paris will always have its icons—but the real stories happen in quiet corners, behind handwritten menus, and at tables where locals linger long after dessert. Ready to skip the clichés and taste something real? Add one (or all) of these gems to your itinerary.