Paris is a city that celebrates culinary tradition, and few dishes capture its soul as beautifully as escargot. This French delicacy—snails cooked slowly in butter, garlic, and herbs—has evolved from a regional specialty to a symbol of French finesse. Whether enjoyed in a century-old bistro surrounded by Belle Époque décor or reimagined in a contemporary setting with truffle and cream, escargot in Paris is an experience that connects taste, history, and culture. From haute cuisine to cozy neighborhood favorites, here are the most unforgettable spots to enjoy escargot in the City of Light.
1️⃣ L’Escargot Montorgueil (1st Arrondissement)
📍 Address: 38 Rue Montorgueil, Paris 75001
🍽️ Style: Historic Fine Dining Bistro
💶 Price: From €14 for 6 snails
Since 1832, L’Escargot Montorgueil has been the undisputed temple of snail cuisine in Paris. Its elegant Belle Époque setting, shimmering chandeliers, and golden snail emblem above the door instantly transport diners to the golden age of French gastronomy. The menu celebrates Burgundy snails in multiple interpretations: the timeless garlic-parsley butter classic, a truffle-infused version for gourmets, and even an exotic take with Espelette pepper. The famous 36-snail tasting platter lets diners sample five signature sauces—a luxurious journey through flavor and French tradition. Don’t miss the foie gras-infused escargots, which blend earthy richness with indulgent texture. A must-visit for anyone seeking the pure essence of Parisian dining.
2️⃣ Le Café des Musées (3rd Arrondissement)
📍 Address: 49 Rue de Turenne, Paris 75003
🍷 Style: Classic Marais Bistro
💶 Price: Around €12–15
Located in the artistic heart of the Marais, Le Café des Musées feels like stepping into a classic film scene. This bistro, dating back to the 1920s, is famous for its authenticity and warm service. Its escargots are a delightful twist on tradition—served not in shells but nestled in mushroom caps, allowing the garlic butter to infuse the mushrooms and create a velvety, aromatic bite. Each plate is a balance of comfort and creativity. Paired with their signature onion soup or a glass of Bordeaux, it’s a dining experience that captures the relaxed elegance of everyday Parisian life. The cozy ambience, checkerboard floors, and vintage mirrors make this spot ideal for slow, soulful meals.
3️⃣ Chez Georges (Pereire – 17th Arrondissement)
📍 Address: 273 Boulevard Pereire, Paris 75017
🍽️ Style: Traditional Parisian Bistro
💶 Price: Around €22 for 6 snails
Stepping into Chez Georges feels like walking into a time capsule. The polished wooden panels, crisp white tablecloths, and glowing wall lamps create an atmosphere steeped in history. Their escargots de Bourgogne are cooked in-shell with generous amounts of butter, parsley, and garlic—each bite oozing flavor and nostalgia. The bistro has long attracted loyal Parisians who appreciate authentic cuisine and a touch of formality. Alongside the snails, order a carafe of Côte du Rhône and their famous roast chicken or steak frites for a perfectly Parisian meal. At Chez Georges, it’s not just about eating—it’s about reliving the rhythm of Parisian dining traditions.
4️⃣ Le Comptoir du Relais (6th Arrondissement)
📍 Address: 9 Carrefour de l’Odéon, Paris 75006
⭐ Style: Michelin-Starred Bistro
💶 Price: €15–20 for appetizers
Helmed by renowned chef Yves Camdeborde, Le Comptoir du Relais embodies the spirit of bistronomie—the meeting of haute cuisine and casual dining. Located in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, this bistro’s escargots are celebrated for their balance of flavor and finesse. Perfectly tender and drenched in herbaceous butter, they’re both comforting and sophisticated. The bistro’s limited seating and no-reservations policy create a sense of exclusivity that draws both locals and food pilgrims from around the world. Pair your snails with a glass of Burgundy and people-watch from the terrace for a truly Parisian experience.
5️⃣ Benoit Paris (4th Arrondissement)
📍 Address: 20 Rue Saint-Martin, Paris 75004
🍴 Style: Michelin-Starred Fine Dining
💶 Price: From €50 for multi-course menu
Benoit, part of the Alain Ducasse family of restaurants, is one of the last bastions of classic haute bistro dining in Paris. Here, escargots arrive in their traditional porcelain plates, drenched in fresh herb butter that bubbles gently as you eat. Every detail, from the perfectly polished brass to the vintage mirrors, evokes old-world glamour. This is where Paris’ culinary history is preserved—each dish a tribute to French technique. After your escargots, indulge in their blanquette de veau or signature millefeuille for a flawless meal. Benoit is both a living museum and a gourmet playground, proving that tradition never goes out of style.
6️⃣ Le Comptoir de la Gastronomie (1st Arrondissement)
📍 Address: 34 Rue Montmartre, Paris 75001
🥂 Style: Gourmet Deli-Bistro
💶 Price: €16.50 for 12 snails
Founded in 1894, Le Comptoir de la Gastronomie is where tradition meets accessibility. Half deli, half restaurant, it’s a culinary treasure trove in the Halles district. Their escargots de Bourgogne are simple yet unforgettable—smothered in garlic butter and served piping hot. The surrounding shop sells everything from foie gras to truffle salt, making it the perfect spot for gourmets who want to take a piece of Paris home. Its old-fashioned charm, checkered tablecloths, and friendly staff make it a cozy stop for lunch or dinner after a day of exploring central Paris.
7️⃣ Bouillon Pigalle (18th Arrondissement)
📍 Address: 22 Boulevard de Clichy, Paris 75018
🍷 Style: Budget Brasserie
💶 Price: €8.40 for 6 snails
Lively, bustling, and unmistakably Parisian, Bouillon Pigalle revives the affordable brasserie concept of the early 1900s. With its grand hall seating and quick service, this is where locals and tourists mingle over comforting French fare. The escargots are classic—served six to a plate, swimming in parsley-garlic butter. Despite the low prices, the flavors are spot-on, proving that good food doesn’t have to be expensive. Pair them with a carafe of house wine and enjoy the nostalgic energy of Montmartre nearby. If you crave the same experience elsewhere, Bouillon Chartier offers a similar charm.
8️⃣ Le Petit Gris (17th Arrondissement)
📍 Address: 67 Rue Rennequin, Paris 75017
🍽️ Style: Modern Bistro
💶 Price: €12–20
Named after the smaller petit gris snail species, this modern bistro is all about creativity. The chefs here play with textures and forms—baking snails into soft fougasse bread or serving them bubbling in mini cocottes with fresh parsley and cream. The presentation is artful, but the essence remains true to tradition. Warm lighting, exposed brick, and friendly service make it feel like a hidden gem among locals. Le Petit Gris is perfect for those seeking a new interpretation of French heritage.
9️⃣ Chez Janou (3rd Arrondissement)
📍 Address: 2 Rue Roger Verlomme, Paris 75003
🌿 Style: Provencal Bistro
💶 Price: Around €18
Step into the South of France without leaving Paris. Chez Janou channels the spirit of Provence with colorful décor, olive oil bottles lining the walls, and the scent of herbs in the air. Their Tagliatelle aux escargots combines tender snails with pasta in an herby butter sauce—an inventive twist that feels both rustic and refined. It’s ideal for those who love the idea of French country cooking brought to life in the heart of Le Marais. And no visit here is complete without their legendary chocolate mousse, served from an enormous bowl at your table.
🔟 L’Ami Louis (3rd Arrondissement)
📍 Address: 32 Rue du Vertbois, Paris 75003
🍷 Style: Legendary Gourmet Bistro
💶 Price: €40+ for snail platter
L’Ami Louis is Paris’ most mythic bistro, beloved by presidents, artists, and celebrities. The snails here are massive, drenched in butter and garlic, and served in an atmosphere that hasn’t changed for decades. The wood-paneled walls, dim lighting, and tuxedoed waiters create a dining experience steeped in nostalgia and grandeur. Though notoriously expensive, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that captures the very soul of old Paris. Each plate tells a story—of indulgence, elegance, and a city that never forgets its culinary roots.
💭 Final Thoughts
From the glittering opulence of L’Escargot Montorgueil to the humble warmth of Bouillon Pigalle, Paris offers escargot experiences for every mood and budget. Each venue tells a different story—some speak of legacy and luxury, others of reinvention and charm. Whether you’re discovering escargot for the first time or revisiting it as a connoisseur, these restaurants represent the beating heart of French gastronomy. They remind us that food in Paris is more than nourishment—it’s an art form, a ritual, and a love letter to history.
Bon appétit! 🥖🧈🍷