La Closerie des Lilas

French restaurant · Notre-Dame des Champs

La Closerie des Lilas

French restaurant · Notre-Dame des Champs

171 Bd du Montparnasse, 75006 Paris, France

Highlights

Savor fine wines and oysters in a charming brasserie with a lively piano, where Hemingway once dined and unforgettable dishes steal the show.

171 Bd du Montparnasse, 75006 Paris, France Get directions

closeriedeslilas.fr

@lacloseriedeslilas

€100+ · Menu

@afar

"An Afternoon Break Near the Luxembourg Gardens Stop here before—or after—a stroll in the nearby Luxembourg Gardens for a taste of classic 19th-century Paris . Expat writers Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald frequented the bar, as did legendary artists like Picasso (brass plaques indicate exactly where they sat). If you're not in the mood for a dimly lit watering hole, the spacious terrace is an ideal spot for a coffee or glass of wine."

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@goop

"La Closerie is in the same league as historic cafés like Les Deux Magots and La Palette. And while some might say this Montparnasse standby is past its prime, many insist it’s still very much happening—after all, Hemingway (there’s a handy sign indicating his preferred spot at the bar), Picasso, and Beckett used to hang out here all the time. We recommend springing for a full dinner in the formal main hall. But the brasserie-slash-piano-bar is great for a drink and to get a feel of the place without spending a fortune. Note: In August, the restaurant is open only in the evenings. "

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Samantha Lewis

Google

This was my favorite restaurant I visited while in Paris and I’ve been to Paris now 3 different times. The ambiance was stunning. I loved the florals, the lighting and the piano player. The food was delicious and the cocktails were so carefully crafted. The cocktail list was also very extensive. Our server was so kind enough to get us a seat in the bar after our meal, directly in front of the piano. I’d come back in a heartbeat. Go here for a romantic date night!

Jennifer Bower

Google

The establishment was exceptional. Our server provided attentive and engaging service, enhancing our dining experience with his helpful wine recommendations and witty conversation. All dishes were delicious, and the ambiance, complemented by live piano music, created a perfect atmosphere for our inaugural Parisian dinner. We highly recommend this restaurant.

Gerard Jones

Google

We visited this restaurant to follow in the footsteps of the legendary James Joyce, the author of the fantastic piece of literature, Ulysses. The restaurant didn’t disappoint, and the food and selections were excellent for a Paris restaurant. Once again, this restaurant is off the traditional tourist trail, so it is worth a visit.

kipling sharpe

Google

Hemingway steak was excellent. The wild boar was disappointing: very little meat, mostly cabbage, unable to detect fau gras. The "pear" dessert was out if this world. Excellent service and waiter spoke excellent English.

Heejin Park

Google

I had a memorable experience at La Closerie des Lilas. Many dishes were prepared tableside, adding a special touch to the meal, and everything was delicious. The atmosphere was lively and festive, just what my family was looking for. I will definitely revisit this restaurant on my next trip to Paris.

Angie Arlo

Google

This place was so cute from the outside, we had high hopes. We wanted to sit outside, but they discouraged us and we ended up sitting inside next to a super loud rude lady. We couldn't hear anything but her and our waiter was not very nice, he was a tall bigger man. 2 of the other waiters were so sweet and nice(the one that made the filet sauce and the one that helped us with the cheese tray)but ours was just super dry and impersonal. My husband ordered the chicken, I ordered the filet. His had pieces that were dark meat that were mostly fat, mine was a bit fatty, the sauce that they made tableside was the best thing we had. We didn't feel welcomed or comfortable. If it weren't for the 2 kind waiters, I would have opted for no stars.

Alexei Marshakov

Google

Great historic restaurant which hosted many famous people. Unfortunately steak Hemingway didn't live to expectations

Benjamin Hess

Google

We dined at the bistro, and the atmosphere was everything we could have hoped for! It offered an authentic Parisian experience with a cozy, lively vibe that felt both genuine and inviting. The waitstaff were incredibly friendly and attentive, adding so much to the overall experience. It didn’t feel like a touristy restaurant at all, which made it all the more enjoyable. I started with the escargot and a glass of champagne—both perfect in every way. The steak was phenomenal, cooked to perfection, and to end the meal, I had the most delightful Crêpe Suzette. La Closerie des Lilas is an absolute gem and a definite recommendation for anyone looking for a memorable Parisian dining experience.