Steak Tartare Treasures: Where’s the Best Steak Tartare in Paris?

Where can I find the best steak tartare in Paris?

Someone recently asked, “Where can I get the best steak tartare in Paris?”

I responded with 4 spots. Boom, done. But then I thought: ‘What if others, too, want to know where they can eat tender minced raw beef combined with the perfect balance of salty & tangy ingredients?’ So let’s dive in.

First of all, it must be said, in all caps: STEAK TARTARE IS RAW GROUND STEAK.

Some people don’t know this. I recently saw a review where the person gave 1 star and complained that the steak tartare almost seemed raw, like raw tuna. …Mhm.

I, too, was once in the club of Unknowing.

A quick steak tartare story

Straight out of college, I was on the ubiquitous one-month backpacking trip through Europe, thinking this was my one chance to see Europe before I chained myself to a dark stuffy cubicle for life. We casually fit in 4 countries in less than a month, changing cities every 2 days.

It was the first day of our trip. We landed, checked in to the 2-star hotel (la classe!), and it was time for our first lunch in Paris. I was the only (mediocre) French speaker, and so I had to translate the all-in-French menu at this classic bistro for my two equally young travel buddies. “This one is fish, that’s chicken…this is some kind of steak with tartare sauce…”

My friend ordered the “steak with tartare sauce”. It showed up, a giant mound of raw ground beef with a raw egg on top. The sort of thing that we young, not-yet-food knowledgable Americans, couldn’t believe would even exist. (My mom used to cook all meat well done due to safety reasons. And I do mean, well, well, well. Done.)

My friend: “It looks like raw ground beef.”

Me: “It’s NOT raw ground beef. (Eye roll) They wouldn’t serve that. That’s not safe. Here, I’ll try it.”

(Takes a forkful, chews.)

“Yah, that tastes like raw ground beef.”

She stirred the plate around to make it look like she did more than stare in horror, and I thus failed my first translator test. And some carry on into adulthood not knowing such a thing exists.

Voilà.

The Tartare Treasure Map

For the brave unknowing and the raw lovers alike… Are you ready for a culinary adventure that’ll leave your taste buds doing the cancan? Paris, the City of Love, Light, (arguably the cancan), and ridiculously delicious food, is the perfect place to seek out the best steak tartare of one’s life.

Hold onto your berets, tartare lovers, because you’ve embarked on a quest to uncover the top spots where you can find this Parisian delight, and I’m here to deliver a treasure map.

1. Chez Julien: The Love Story of Meat and Magic

Address: 1 Rue du Pont Louis-Philippe, 75004 Paris, France
Website: Chez Julien

Picture this: You’re strolling through the enchanting Marais district, and your culinary radar starts pinging like mad. You’ve stumbled upon Chez Julien, a charming 19th-century bistro with views of the Seine that make your heart sing. But the real showstopper? Their steak tartare. With prime beef cut to perfection and a seasoning symphony that’d make even the Eiffel Tower jealous, it’s a work of art on a plate.

2. Bistrot Paul Bert: When Meat Meets Perfection

Address: 18 Rue Paul Bert, 75011 Paris, France
Website: Bistrot Paul Bert

In the 11th arrondissement, meat lovers, and seekers of steak tartare perfection flock to Bistrot Paul Bert. Yes, they’re famous for steak frites (the steak au poivre is a must), but here’s the secret: their steak tartare is out-of-this-world! Finely minced, seasoned with love and tradition, it’s like the beef gods got together for a secret recipe meeting.

3. Au Petit Fer à Cheval: Cozy Terrace in the Marais

Address: 30 Rue Vieille du Temple, 75004 Paris, France
Website: Au Petit Fer à Cheval

Warning/Update: I received a disappointing report that the steak tartare here has dropped in quality, so I can no longer recommend this for the time being. Better off to just have a glass of wine or a coffee here and save your precious meal slot. I always want to hear if someone has a poor experience since I can’t keep up with eating over and over at every spot on a regular basis while also trying new restaurants. Thank you, Phillip, for this dire alert.

Original: You’re in the Marais, strolling down the cutest of streets, so why not drop by Au Petit Fer à Cheval? This cozy spot will make your heart do a little tap dance. And their steak tartare? Prepare to be charmed! It’s lovingly prepared with top-tier beef and a magical blend of spices.

4. Chez Georges (rue du Mail): Where Tradition Rules

Address: 1 Rue du Mail, 75002 Paris, France

Are you yearning for a bite of history? Head down to Chez Georges on rue du Mail. Their steak tartare doesn’t mess with tradition. It’s all about prime beef and a timeless recipe that has delighted taste buds for generations. They’re also famous for their sole meunière and for being a favorite spot of Julia Child.

5. Le Bon Georges: Tradition Meets Modernity

Address: 45 Rue Saint-Georges, 75009 Paris, France
Website: Le Bon Georges

Le Bon Georges in the 9th arrondissement is all about classic meets modern. Their steak tartare is a tasteful fusion of the best cuts, innovative seasonings, and a dash of creativity. It’s a mouthwatering interpretation of the French classic.

6. Au Pied du Cochon: A Late-Night Love Affair

Address: 6 Rue Coquillière, 75001 Paris, France
Website: Au Pied du Cochon

Feeling fancy at 3am? That’s when Au Pied du Cochon comes to the rescue. Situated in Les Halles, this brasserie never sleeps, and their steak tartare is the cure for your late-night cravings. It’s raw, it’s fabulous, and it’s Parisian indulgence at its best. The French onion soup is also one of the best in town.

What in the World is Steak Tartare?

In case this wasn’t yet clear, steak tartare is like the rock star of French cuisine. It’s raw, it’s daring, and it’s all about the beef. Imagine the finest cuts of meat, meticulously minced or chopped, and then seasoned with spices, capers, onions, and a raw egg yolk to make it creamy. It’s a culinary masterpiece that sings to your taste buds, typically served with golden frites or fresh baguette slices.

How Do They Make Steak Tartare?

The secret to great steak tartare is all about the beef quality. Chefs use the best cuts, like tenderloin or sirloin, and they lovingly mince it by hand or with a super sharp knife. Seasoning magic happens with salt, pepper, Dijon mustard, shallots, and capers. A raw egg yolk crowns the dish, and you can mix everything up just the way you like.

Why Do People Go Gaga for Steak Tartare?

Why do people lose their hearts and minds over steak tartare?

1. Flavor: It’s like a culinary fireworks show, with rich, beefy flavors, tangy seasonings, and that creamy, dreamy egg yolk.
2. Texture: The finely minced meat offers a texture that’s tender and satisfying – like a meaty cloud of heaven. Never thought I’d use the phrase “meaty cloud” but here we are.
3. Personalization: You can tweak your steak tartare to suit your own taste, adjusting spice levels, seasonings, and condiments.
4. French Tradition: It’s a bona fide French classic with a rich history, making it a must-try for anyone on a Parisian culinary quest.

In Paris, the world of steak tartare is your oyster – or shall we say, your beef-ster? With iconic spots like Chez Julien, Bistrot Paul Bert, and the gang, you’ll be savoring a slice of Parisian culinary magic. So, grab your fork, your knife, and maybe an extra stomach because you’re about to embark on a raw-tastic adventure through the flavors of the City of Light! (And don’t forget the frites.)

What did I miss? Any favorites I should consider adding?

Classic French Restaurants & Food

For more French classics, head over to The Ultimate Guide to Classic French Restaurants in Paris

For hands down the best beef bourgignon (and duck confit): One of the Best Classic French Restaurants Left in Paris