Paris: Eiffel Tower’s Madame Brasserie 3-course lunch 12:00

This review explores the experience of dining at Madame Brasserie on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower, where you can indulge in a gourmet three-course meal while soaking in breathtaking Parisian vistas. The combination of culinary finesse, spectacular scenery, and a convenient skip-the-line access makes this a popular choice for travelers seeking a memorable meal.

What we love most about this experience is the chance to enjoy French cuisine crafted by renowned Chef Thierry Marx in one of the world’s most iconic landmarks. The priority access through dedicated security and lift lines reduces the usual waiting time, allowing you to maximize your time in this stellar setting. That said, a potential downside is that the experience is somewhat structured—tables are assigned in advance, so spontaneous seating choices aren’t possible.

This tour is particularly well-suited for those who appreciate gourmet dining paired with stunning city views. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to elevate your Paris visit, this experience offers a blend of elegance, authenticity, and convenience.

Key Points

• Unbeatable Location: Dining on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower offers spectacular views of Paris and the Trocadéro.
• Renowned Chef: The menu is designed by Thierry Marx, promising high-quality French cuisine made from seasonal ingredients.
• Priority Access: Skip the lines with dedicated security checks and a private lift, saving precious sightseeing time.
• Flexible Dining Options: Choose between the Brasserie Menu or the Madame Menu, with options to pair your meal with champagne or wine.
• Authentic Atmosphere: The lively daytime ambiance adds to the charm, whether you’re enjoying a family meal or a romantic lunch.
• Post-Meal Exploration: After dining, you’re free to explore the first-floor exhibits, walk on the glass floor, and enjoy panoramic views.

The Experience in Detail

Booking and Arrival

Booking your lunch at Madame Brasserie is straightforward, especially with the included skip-the-line privileges. You’ll collect your lift tickets at 11:30 AM from the designated welcome desk, located conveniently between the north and east pillars of the Eiffel Tower. The process is well-organized, with clear signage—look for the Madame Brasserie logo. Arriving a little early (at least 30 minutes before your reservation) is advisable to clear security checks and avoid last-minute rushes, as you’ll go through two security screenings.

The Walk to the Restaurant

Once inside, the journey to the first-floor restaurant is smooth, thanks to a dedicated lift that whisks you directly to your dining destination. The lift itself is a small indulgence, offering glimpses of the tower’s interior architecture along the way. You won’t need to worry about long queues or crowds, as the experience is designed for a small group—limited to 10 participants—which enhances comfort and interaction with staff.

The Interior and Atmosphere

Madame Brasserie boasts a warm, elegant ambiance that balances modern design with classic Parisian charm. During our research, reviews mention the “outstanding” service and attentive staff, like Sophie and Hassy, who go above and beyond to make guests feel special. The interior is well-lit, with large windows offering sweeping views of the city, and the layout encourages a lively yet comfortable dining environment.

The Menu and Culinary Excellence

Chef Thierry Marx’s menu reflects the best of French culinary tradition. Guests have two options: the Brasserie Menu, featuring classic French dishes, or the Madame Menu, which offers a more indulgent experience. Both menus consist of three courses—starter, main, and dessert—crafted from seasonal ingredients to ensure freshness.

Reviewers commonly highlight the high standards of the food, with some noting the tender beef (beef Bourguignon) and well-prepared desserts. A notable feature is the option to enhance your meal with champagne or fine wine, making it suitable for special occasions. Sparkling or still filtered water is provided, alongside coffee or tea, which rounds out the meal.

The Views and Post-Meal Exploration

One of the main perks of dining here is the spectacular view over Paris, including landmarks like the Trocadéro and La Défense. Whether you opt for the Seine View overlooking the river or the more panoramic Cur Brasserie, the scenery is even more captivating during daylight hours. Reviewers consistently mention the “spectacular scenery” and recommend taking photos before or after your meal.

After dining, you’re encouraged to step outside and explore the first-floor exhibits. Many appreciate the opportunity to walk on the glass floor, which offers a thrilling perspective on the tower’s structure and a view straight down to the ground. You can also visit the exhibits that detail the tower’s history, adding an educational element to your visit.

The Practicals: What to Expect

Duration and Group Size

The entire experience lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a perfect lunch break or a quick but memorable indulgence. The small group size (limited to 10) ensures personalized service and a relaxed pace, which many reviews praise as “well-organized” and “easy to enjoy.”

Price and Value

At $83 per person, this experience offers a good value considering the prime location, gourmet menu, and skip-the-line access. When you factor in the convenience and quality of the cuisine, it’s a worthwhile splurge—especially if you’re celebrating or want an elevated experience beyond a simple café lunch.

Accessibility and Convenience

Access to the Eiffel Tower’s first floor is included, and the dedicated entry points minimize waiting and hassle. The experience is also wheelchair accessible, and assistance dogs are permitted, catering to diverse needs.

What’s Not Included

It’s important to note that souvenirs, the elevator to the second or third floors, and additional drinks outside the menu options are not included. If you’d like photos taken professionally during your visit, those are available for purchase, a common add-on mentioned by reviewers.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One guest from Italy shared that the “ambiance of the restaurant” was a highlight, especially during a birthday celebration, adding a special touch to their visit. A North American reviewer appreciated the “professional waiter” and the ease of collecting tickets, calling the entire process “well organized.” Many mention the “spectacular view” as the standout feature—some say it’s better than expected, with the restaurant providing a perfect balance of scenery and fine dining.

Several reviews note the “excellent service” and “delicious food,” with particular praise for the tender beef and well-chosen wine pairings. Conversely, a few critics mention that the meal could be slightly better, or that the coffee and tea are not included in the base price (although this is standard for fine dining). The consensus is positive: the experience is memorable and worth the cost.

Final Thoughts

Dining at Madame Brasserie is more than just a meal; it’s a chance to see Paris from above while enjoying quality French cuisine in a lively, elegant environment. The priority access makes it a hassle-free experience, especially useful in a city where queues can be long. The stunning views, combined with the culinary expertise of Thierry Marx, create a memorable occasion that feels both special and authentic.

This experience is ideal for romantic couples, families, or anyone celebrating a special day. It works particularly well for those who want a luxurious yet accessible way to mark their visit to the French capital. Keep in mind that tables are assigned in advance, so your seating is guaranteed, but spontaneous requests aren’t possible. Also, arriving early is key to making the most of your time.

If you’re seeking a combination of spectacular scenery, gourmet food, and excellent service in one of Paris’s most recognizable landmarks, Madame Brasserie delivers. It’s an experience that blends the magic of the Eiffel Tower with the pleasure of a fine French meal—a recipe for memories you’ll cherish.

FAQ

Is the lunch at Madame Brasserie available at specific times?
Yes, the lunch is typically scheduled at around 12:00 PM, and the duration is approximately 1.5 hours. You should check booking options for available times.

What’s included in the tour?
Your package includes first-floor access to the Eiffel Tower, a three-course meal (starter, main, and dessert), and a choice of champagne, wine, beer, or soft drinks, along with filtered water and coffee or tea if you select the Madame Menu.

Can I choose my table?
Tables are assigned in advance; on-the-spot choices are not possible. When booking, you can select your preferred seating type, such as the Cur Brasserie or Seine View.

How do I get my tickets?
Tickets are collected at 11:30 AM from the welcome desk located between the north and east pillars of the Eiffel Tower. The process is straightforward, and you’ll skip the regular security queues.

Is the experience suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, allowing guests with mobility needs to enjoy the meal and views comfortably.

Are there options for children or infants?
Infants under 4 years are permitted, but it’s recommended to inform the organizer beforehand. The menu may be suitable for children, but please confirm when booking.

What about photos?
Professional photos are available for purchase after the meal. Many guests find this adds a nice touch to their souvenir collection.

Can I visit the other floors of the Eiffel Tower afterward?
The ticket includes access to the first floor only. If you wish to go higher, such as to the second or third floors, additional tickets are required, but they are not included in this experience.

Is dress code enforced?
While not strictly formal, smart casual attire is recommended to match the upscale ambiance of Madame Brasserie.

In essence, this lunch experience offers a blend of luxury, convenience, and spectacular views. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to elevate their Paris visit with good food and unforgettable scenery—making it truly a meal to remember.