Les Ombres Restaurant

The Basics

Famed for its striking looks—it was designed by French starchitect Jean Nouvel—Restaurant Les Ombres also offers one of the city’s best perspectives on the Eiffel Tower, as well as panoramic views over the City of Lights. Situated five stories up on the Musée du Quai Branly’s roof, the restaurant has been a popular sightseeing destination since its opening in 2006. A top choice for epicureans, the restaurant specializes in classical French cooking: think foie gras with purple figs, roasted salmon with caramelized leeks, and confit pork belly.

A visit to Restaurant Les Ombres can easily be paired with a tour of the worthwhile Musée du Quai Branly, or with a sightseeing stop at the Eiffel Tower, which is located just east of the museum.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Restaurant Les Ombres is a reservations-only restaurant, and it’s advised to book well in advance of your visit.

• The restaurant offers prix fixe and à la carte menus for both lunch and dinner. Its two-course lunch prix fixe is a budget-friendly way to sample its highlights.

• The venue is accessible to wheelchair users and other visitors with limited mobility.

How to Get There

Located on the roof terrace of the Musée du Quai Branly, Restaurant Les Ombres can be accessed at 27 Quai Branly or via the museum’s pretty garden. Take Métro line 9 to Alma-Marceau, or take the RER C to Pont de l’Alma. The restaurant is also served by bus lines 42, 63, 80, and 92 and can be accessed on foot, by car, or by Vélib’ bike.

When to Get There

Restaurant Les Ombres is open daily, and its hours operate independently from those of the Musée du Quai Branly. Lunch is served from 12 to 2:45pm, and two nightly dinner services are held at 7pm and 9:30pm.

The Musée du Quai Branly

Don’t miss the chance to explore the Musée du Quai Branly, which has become one of Paris’ top museums since its 2006 opening. Dedicated to the traditional arts and cultures of Asia, Africa, Oceania, and the Americas, the museum’s vast collection includes over 700,000 objects.

Ways to explore

Famed for its looks—it was designed by French architect Jean Nouvel—Les Ombres has one of Paris’ best perspectives on the Eiffel Tower, which can be admired from the restaurant’s open-air terrace or through its glass-and-iron roof. A top choice for foodies, the restaurant specializes in French cooking with international twists and seasonally changing dishes; make reservations at this in-demand spot well in advance.

A meal here can easily follow a tour of the Quai Branly Museum, which displays Indigenous artworks and artifacts from around the world, or a sightseeing stop at the Eiffel Tower, located just east of the museum.

Accessibility

Restaurant Les Ombres is wheelchair-accessible.

Age limits

While kids are permitted at Les Ombres, its formal atmosphere is better suited to older children and adults.

What to pack

Camera, layers (if you plan to take photos outside)

What to wear

Especially if dining in the evening, it’s best to wear a smart-casual outfit.

Not allowed

Very informal dress (e.g., athleisure), outside food and beverages, disrespectful behavior

Amenities

Restrooms, elevator, terrace

Address

Les Ombres Restaurant is located on the roof of the Quai Branly Museum, a riverside museum in Paris’ 7th arrondissement. The restaurant is right next to the Eiffel Tower. Public transit, riverboat services, and taxis are all good ways to get there.

Driving

Owing to traffic congestion and restrictions, driving in central Paris is not recommended. You’re better off grabbing a taxi or rideshare, but if you must drive, use the paid, publicly accessible Quai Branly–Tour Eiffel parking garage.

Public transportation

Take the RER C commuter train to Pont de l’Alma station, or ride metro line 9 to Alma–Marceau station, located right across the River Seine. Alternatively, take hop-on hop-off Batobus riverboat services to the Eiffel Tower.

Best times to visit

Les Ombres is open for lunch and dinner daily. Expect lunch and late dinner times to be easier to book.

Best days to visit

Weekends are likely to be the busiest time at Les Ombres; aim for a weekday instead.

Best months to visit

Summer is the tourist high season in Paris, and when Les Ombres is likely to be in demand. Visit at other times of year for a slightly calmer experience.

Special events

Expect Les Ombres to be especially busy when special events and fireworks shows are hosted at the Eiffel Tower, including on Bastille Day.