Bouillon Chartier: Big Dining Hall, Big Paris Experience

Bouillon Chartier is one of the most famous restaurants in Paris. It’s a big, lively dining hall where locals and tourists come for classic French food at great prices. With its old-school charm and fast service, it feels like stepping into a piece of Paris history.

What Is Bouillon Chartier and Why Is It So Famous?

Bouillon Chartier Grands Boulevards is one of Paris’s most beloved restaurants.

Opened in 1896, it is located at 7 Rue du Faubourg Montmartre, just a few steps from the Grands Boulevards metro station.

The restaurant is famous for its Belle Époque interior with high ceilings, large mirrors, wood paneling, and classic brass details.

It offers a vibrant and fast-paced atmosphere where guests are seated quickly — often next to strangers — and served by waiters in traditional black-and-white uniforms.

Location: 7 Rue du Faubourg Montmartre, 75009 Paris

The Must-Try Dishes

Chartier is all about authentic French comfort food, served simply and affordably. Here are five of the most popular and frequently mentioned dishes:

Escargots de Bourgogne

Served hot with garlic and parsley butter.

A French classic and one of the most ordered starters.

Œuf Mayonnaise

A simple, creamy egg dish that has become a nostalgic favorite in France — and it only costs a few euros.

Confit de Canard

Slow-cooked duck leg, crisp on the outside, tender inside, with roasted baby potatoes.

A top choice among diners.

Bœuf Bourguignon

Beef stewed in red wine with carrots and onions, served with small pasta (coquillettes).

Comforting and filling.

Mousse au Chocolat Maison

Light and airy chocolate mousse — one of the most loved desserts on the menu.

What to Expect Inside

The dining room is large, noisy, and full of life.

Expect fast service, shared tables, and waiters writing your order directly on the paper tablecloth.

It’s not fancy — but it’s authentic, fun, and efficient.

That’s part of the Chartier charm.

What People Say

Reviews consistently mention:

Excellent prices
Lively, old-fashioned Parisian atmosphere
Must-try dishes like the duck confit, escargots, and mousse au chocolat
Long lines at dinner (arrive early!)

Some note that service can feel rushed, but most guests accept it as part of the experience.

Is It Worth It?

Absolutely — if you want a true taste of old Paris.

Bouillon Chartier isn’t about luxury.

It’s about history, tradition, and value.

For over a century, it has served Parisians and visitors the same beloved dishes, in the same grand dining room, at prices that are still surprisingly low.

Dorian

With a passion for travel and having visited over 50 countries, Dorian is eager to share his favorite spots and expert tips to help you explore Paris and France like a local.