La Palette Paris: A Timeless Belle Époque Brasserie for Authentic French Cuisine

Welcome, food lovers and Paris enthusiasts! Alix here, ready to share a recent culinary highlight from our Parisian adventures. Just a few weeks ago, Hugo’s dad treated us to brunch, and picking the perfect spot was easy: La Palette in the vibrant 6th arrondissement. This iconic brasserie was a top priority on our July bucket list, and we couldn’t wait to share its legendary charm and exquisite French cuisine with our family. It promised an authentic taste of Paris, and it delivered on every front, making for an unforgettable dining experience.

A Glimpse into La Palette: Parisian Belle Époque Charm

Stepping into La Palette is like stepping back in time to the golden age of Paris, the Belle Époque. This classic French brasserie, nestled in the heart of the artistic 6th arrondissement, is renowned for its delicious traditional French fare and its quintessential Parisian ambiance. The moment you enter, you’re enveloped in an atmosphere of timeless elegance, where history and culinary excellence intertwine. The attentive and friendly waitstaff add to the welcoming experience, ensuring every guest feels right at home.

La Palette isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a piece of Parisian heritage. Its interiors are a testament to the Belle Époque style, featuring exquisite wall decorations, ornate fixtures, and an overall aesthetic that speaks volumes of a bygone era. We have a particular fondness for everything Belle Époque – so much so that our own wedding was inspired by this beautiful period! We hope to share more about that special day in a future post, perhaps around an upcoming anniversary.

Beyond its culinary prowess, La Palette is also perfectly situated for a delightful post-meal stroll. The surrounding “quartier,” Saint-Germain-des-Prés, embodies the very essence of traditional Paris. Its cobbled streets, charming boutiques, and art galleries make it an ideal neighborhood to wander through after a satisfying meal. From here, you are truly in the heart of classic Parisian life, with the Seine just a short walk away. This historic area has long been a hub for artists and intellectuals, and you can feel that creative energy in the air.

The Culinary Journey: Main Courses at La Palette

Our brunch began with anticipation for the main courses, and La Palette did not disappoint. I chose the delectable seabass, prepared with a generous amount of fragrant olive oil, fresh garlic, and vibrant parsley, served alongside perfectly perfumed basmati rice. The dish was a testament to simplicity done right – each ingredient shining through, resulting in a light yet incredibly flavorful meal that was absolutely on point. It was a perfect example of how French cuisine elevates fresh ingredients with expert preparation.

Hugo, ever the connoisseur of classic French meat dishes, opted for “la bavette saignante.” For those unfamiliar, “saignante” means barely cooked, or rare, which is the traditional and preferred way for many French diners to enjoy their steak. You can, of course, request it cooked to your liking, but we highly recommend trying it the French way for an authentic experience. This cut of steak, known for its rich flavor, was a true highlight of our meal.

The bavette was prepared simply but impeccably, accompanied by gorgeous rosemary roasted potatoes and a sprinkle of authentic Corse sea salt. The simplicity allowed the quality of the meat to shine, perfectly seared on the outside and tender within. It was a truly satisfying dish, perfectly embodying the elegance of French bistro cuisine.

Indulgent Desserts: Tarte Tatin and Éclair at La Palette

Even after our generously proportioned and rich main courses – classic French portions are reasonable yet incredibly filling – we simply couldn’t resist the allure of dessert. The dessert menu at La Palette is a tempting array of French classics, and we knew we had to indulge. We decided to share an exquisite tarte tatin, a masterpiece of a pastry. Its flaky, buttery homemade crust cradled a luscious layer of perfectly stewed and caramelized apples. Each bite was pure heaven, a symphony of textures and flavors that left us utterly enchanted. It’s a dessert that truly captures the heart of French patisserie: simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary.

Hugo’s dad and brother, who also joined us for lunch, shared a delectable coffee éclair. This classic French pastry was a delight: a delicate choux pastry shell filled with deliciously creamy, intensely flavored coffee cream, topped with a glossy coffee glaze. It was a perfect complement to our meal, bursting with rich, aromatic coffee notes and a wonderfully smooth texture. Sharing these traditional French desserts added a sweet conclusion to our memorable family brunch.

Exploring the Enchanting Saint-Germain-des-Prés Neighborhood

The magic of La Palette extends beyond its doors. Situated in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the brasserie offers the perfect starting point for an enchanting exploration of one of Paris’s most iconic neighborhoods. This area, particularly known for its artistic and intellectual history, invites visitors to linger and soak in its unique atmosphere. After your meal, we highly recommend taking a leisurely walk to discover its hidden gems.

Just across from La Palette, you’ll spot MEERT, a bakery that, as the French eloquently say, “donne envie” – it simply makes you want to step inside and indulge in something delicious! Clotilde Dusoulier, of the renowned Chocolate and Zucchini blog, has praised the original Lille location of this legendary spot. Its Parisian outpost is now firmly on our September bucket list, and we eagerly anticipate trying their famed gaufres and other delightful treats soon!

Saint-Germain-des-Prés is a treasure trove of Parisian charm. Wander through its narrow streets and discover independent bookstores, antique shops, and art galleries that echo the neighborhood’s rich artistic past, once home to literary giants and existentialist philosophers. Enjoy people-watching at one of the many outdoor cafes, browse exquisite fashion boutiques, or simply admire the elegant Haussmannian architecture. A walk along the nearby Seine River, perhaps towards the Pont des Arts or Notre Dame, offers breathtaking views and completes the quintessential Parisian experience. La Palette’s prime location truly enhances the overall visit, turning a meal into a full cultural immersion.

Plan Your Visit to La Palette, Paris

Have you had the pleasure of dining at La Palette? What were your thoughts on its classic French charm and cuisine? Would you recommend it to fellow travelers, or would you eagerly return for another meal? If you haven’t yet experienced this Parisian gem, do you plan to add it to your itinerary for an authentic taste of the city?

La Palette
43 rue de Seine
75006 Paris, France

More Foodie Experiences in Paris

For those seeking to further explore the culinary delights and unique dining experiences Paris has to offer, here are a few more recommendations:

• Nina’s Paris: Indulge in an elegant afternoon tea experience, perfect for a refined break from sightseeing.
• Le Meurice Tea Time: Experience the epitome of luxury with a sophisticated tea service in a grand Parisian palace setting.
• Bouillon Chartier Paris: Dive into a historic and bustling Parisian institution offering classic French dishes at incredibly affordable prices.
• Pierre Hermé Café (Beaupassage): Savor exquisite pastries and innovative flavors from a world-renowned pâtissier in a modern, artistic setting.
• Boot Café Paris: Discover a charming, tiny coffee shop housed in a former shoe repair store, perfect for a cozy coffee break and a taste of local life.