Le Train Bleu

Even if you have no train to catch, you must visit this legendary restaurant at Gare de Lyon at least once in your life. In 1900, the station’s grand buffet opened for the World’s Fair. The railway company envisioned a venue that was both modern and luxurious. It was so spectacular that all the celebrities, artists, intellectuals, and political figures of the early 20th century flocked there. In 1963, it took its current name in tribute to the legendary “Paris–Ventimiglia” train that carried holidaymakers to the French Riviera. In 1972, its dining rooms were listed as Historic Monuments. And it is easy to see why. Everywhere you look, there are gilded ceilings, frescoes, ornate decorations, vast mirrors and period chandeliers. Crisp white tablecloths, fine porcelain, waiters in traditional aprons… the feeling of stepping into a film or a novel is unmistakable. Le Train Bleu is a wonderful time machine—for a meal, an aperitif, or a rendezvous. One savors a gratin dauphinois alongside roast leg of lamb carved tableside from a guéridon trolley—tradition, once again! The steak tartare is unforgettable, as are the pike quenelles and the crêpes Suzette flambéed before your eyes. French service at its finest! Yes, the experience of Le Train Bleu is simply a must.