7 Best Places for Duck Confit in Paris

Looking for the best duck confit in Paris? I've discovered seven remarkable spots that'll make your taste buds sing! From Bistrot Paul Bert's three-day preparation method to Le Baratin's refined take, each restaurant offers its own unique spin. Don't miss Chez L'Ami Louis's Périgord duck or La Rotisserie D'argent's 36-hour masterpiece. Whether you prefer traditional or modern interpretations, these establishments range from €28-85 per person. Let's explore what makes each spot truly special.

Bistrot Paul Bert: A Time-Honored Temple of Duck Confit

Best Places for Duck Confit in Paris: Bistrot Paul Bert

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Nestled in the charming 11th arrondissement, Bistrot Paul Bert stands as a reflection of traditional French bistro culture, where duck confit has been elevated to an art form. Since opening its doors in 2000, this beloved establishment has earned a reputation among locals and critics alike for serving one of the most authentic and expertly prepared duck confits in Paris.

The restaurant's belle époque décor, complete with vintage mirrors and classic tile floors, creates the perfect backdrop for experiencing their signature dish. Chef Bertrand Auboyneau's dedication to traditional cooking methods and high-quality ingredients has made Bistrot Paul Bert's duck confit a benchmark against which others are measured, drawing food enthusiasts from across the globe.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €28-35 for duck confit main course
• Reservations: Essential, especially for dinner (book 2-3 weeks ahead)
• Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 12:00-14:00 and 19:30-23:00
• Dietary Notes: Traditional preparation contains gluten in side dishes
• Wine Pairing Available: Yes (extensive French wine list)
• English Menu: Available upon request
• Dress Code: Smart casual

The Duck Confit Experience:

The signature duck confit at Bistrot Paul Bert features locally-sourced duck legs that undergo a meticulous three-day preparation process. The meat is first cured with salt and aromatic herbs, then slowly cooked in its own fat until achieving the perfect balance of crispy skin and tender meat that practically falls off the bone. Served with golden-brown pommes sarladaises (potatoes cooked in duck fat) and a light frisée salad, this classic preparation demonstrates why duck confit became a cornerstone of French cuisine.

Location: 18 Rue Paul Bert, 75011 Paris

Insider Tip: Request table 14 in the corner of the main dining room – it offers the best atmosphere while being slightly removed from the busy center of the restaurant.

Pro Tips:

The ideal time to experience Bistrot Paul Bert's duck confit is during weekday lunch service, when the kitchen is less rushed and the dining room more relaxed. Consider ordering the wine pairings suggested by their sommelier, who often recommends lesser-known regional wines that perfectly complement the richness of the duck confit. For the best experience, ask for the meat to be served slightly more crispy than standard ("plus croustillant, s'il vous plaît").

Practical Advice:

Always call to confirm your reservation on the day of your visit, as this is expected in Parisian bistros. During warmer months, the restaurant can become quite warm, so dress accordingly. While credit cards are accepted, having some cash on hand is recommended for smaller expenses. Consider making lunch reservations instead of dinner if you're seeking a more laid-back dining experience with the same exceptional quality.

Le Baratin: Modern Mastery in Belleville

Tucked away in the vibrant Belleville neighborhood, Le Baratin represents the evolution of traditional French bistro cuisine, where chef Raquel Carena transforms classic dishes like duck confit into modern masterpieces. This intimate 40-seat restaurant has earned a loyal following among both locals and international food critics for its innovative yet respectful approach to French culinary traditions.

The restaurant's duck confit stands as a proof of Chef Carena's Argentine-French fusion style, offering a lighter, more refined version of this classic dish while maintaining its soul-satisfying essence. Rather than drowning in its own fat, the duck emerges with perfectly crispy skin and tender meat, accompanied by seasonal vegetables and creative garnishes that change regularly.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €65-85 per person for dinner
• Reservations: Essential, book 2-3 weeks in advance
• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 12:30-2:30pm and 7:30-10:30pm
• Dietary Considerations: Duck confit cannot be made vegetarian
• Wine: Extensive natural wine list, €30-200 per bottle
• Dress Code: Smart casual

The Duck Confit Experience:

Le Baratin's duck confit begins with carefully selected Muscovy duck legs, cured with a proprietary blend of herbs and spices before being slowly cooked in duck fat for 12 hours. The result is served with seasonal accompaniments, which might include wild mushrooms in autumn or fresh peas in spring. The dish is priced at €32 as a main course, and the portion size is generous enough to satisfy without overwhelming. Insider tip: Request a table in the back room near the kitchen to watch Chef Carena at work.

Pro Tips:

Lunch service offers the best value and typically features the same duck confit preparation as dinner but in a slightly less formal atmosphere. The restaurant's natural wine selection pairs exceptionally well with the duck confit – ask for the sommelier's recommendation from their small-producer list, particularly focusing on wines from the Loire Valley or Burgundy regions.

Practical Advice:

Located at 3 Rue Jouye-Rouve in the 20th arrondissement, Le Baratin is accessible via Metro line 11 (Pyrénées station). While credit cards are accepted, some international cards may not work with their system, so carrying cash as backup is recommended. The restaurant's popularity with both locals and tourists means that last-minute cancellations rarely go unfilled, so joining their waitlist is worthwhile if your preferred date is fully booked.

Chez L'Ami Louis: The Classic Confit Experience

Tucked away in the 3rd arrondissement, Chez L'Ami Louis stands as a representation of traditional French bistro cuisine, having served its legendary duck confit since 1924. The restaurant's weathered zinc bar, well-worn wooden tables, and vintage tile floors create an atmosphere that transports diners to a Paris of yesteryear, where time seems to stand still and culinary traditions reign supreme.

The duck confit at Chez L'Ami Louis represents the pinnacle of this classic French preparation method, where duck legs are salt-cured and slowly cooked in their own fat until achieving the perfect balance of crispy skin and tender, flavorful meat. The restaurant's unwavering commitment to traditional cooking methods and high-quality ingredients has made it a mandatory stop for confit enthusiasts and food critics alike.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €32-38 for duck confit main course
• Reservations: Essential, book 2-3 weeks in advance
• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 12:00-14:30 and 19:00-23:00
• Dress Code: Smart casual
• Wine List: Extensive French selection, €40-200 per bottle
• Languages: French menu with English translations available
• Payment: Cash and major credit cards accepted

The restaurant's signature duck confit exemplifies the dish's proper preparation, with meat that falls off the bone while maintaining its rich, complex flavors. The duck is sourced from selected farms in the Périgord region and undergoes a meticulous three-day preparation process. Each portion is served with perfectly crispy pommes frites and a simple green salad dressed in a classic vinaigrette. Insider tip: Request a table in the back room near the kitchen for the most authentic atmosphere and occasional interactions with the chef.

Pro Tips:

The ideal time to enjoy duck confit at Chez L'Ami Louis is during the cooler months (October through March) when the rich dish best suits the weather. Arrive early for dinner service (19:00) to secure the freshest preparation of the day, as the kitchen often sells out of their daily confit allocation. Consider sharing the generous portion sizes with your dining companions to experience other classic dishes on the menu.

Practical Advice:

Due to the restaurant's international reputation, securing a reservation can be challenging. Work with your hotel concierge or call directly during French business hours (9:00-17:00). The restaurant's location in the historic Marais district makes it easily accessible via Metro stations République or Temple. Bring cash as a backup payment method, and don't be deterred by the seemingly brusque service – it's part of the authentic Parisian bistro experience.

La Rotisserie D'argent: Riverside Duck Perfection

Nestled along the Seine River in the historic 5th arrondissement, La Rotisserie D'argent stands as a demonstration of traditional French gastronomy. This sister restaurant to the legendary La Tour d'Argent has mastered the art of duck confit, offering a more accessible yet equally memorable dining experience that captures the essence of classic Parisian cuisine.

The restaurant's duck confit has earned its reputation through a meticulous preparation process, where duck legs are carefully cured and slowly cooked in their own fat until achieving the perfect balance of crispy skin and tender meat. Set against the backdrop of Notre-Dame Cathedral, dining here combines culinary excellence with quintessential Parisian atmosphere.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €28-35 for duck confit main course
• Reservation Required: Yes, especially for dinner and weekends
• Best Times: Lunch service (12:00-14:30) typically less crowded
• Dress Code: Smart casual
• Dietary Considerations: Traditional preparation methods use duck fat
• Languages: English menu available
• Payment: Major credit cards accepted

The signature duck confit at La Rotisserie D'argent undergoes a 36-hour preparation process, resulting in meat that practically falls off the bone. The dish is served with perfectly crispy potatoes sarladaises and a small garden salad, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Located at 19 Quai de la Tournelle, the restaurant operates Tuesday through Sunday, with service from 12:00-14:30 and 19:00-22:30. Insider tip: Request a window table during booking for stunning Seine views, and arrive 15 minutes before sunset for magical lighting.

Pro Tips:

The ideal dining experience comes from timing your visit carefully. Book a 19:30 dinner reservation during summer months to enjoy the natural light through the restaurant's large windows while avoiding the peak tourist rush. Consider ordering the house wine, as it's specifically selected to complement the duck dishes and offers better value than more expensive options on the list.

Practical Advice:

Make reservations at least one week in advance, particularly during high season (May-September). The restaurant is a 5-minute walk from the Maubert-Mutualité metro station, and while street parking is available, public transportation is recommended. For solo diners, the bar seating offers an excellent view of the kitchen and often results in special attention from the staff.

Le Petit Canard: A Duck-Focused Haven

Nestled in the charming 9th arrondissement, Le Petit Canard stands as a symbol of France's enduring love affair with duck cuisine. This intimate bistro, with its warm wooden interiors and vintage posters, has earned a reputation as one of Paris's premier destinations for duck confit and other canard-centric dishes since its establishment in 1987.

While Paris boasts countless restaurants serving duck confit, Le Petit Canard distinguishes itself through its singular focus on duck preparations and its commitment to sourcing from small-scale producers in France's southwest region. The restaurant's dedication to perfecting duck dishes has made it a beloved institution among locals and food enthusiasts seeking authentic French cuisine.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €28-45 for main courses
• Reservations: Essential, especially for dinner (book 1-2 weeks ahead)
• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 7:00 PM-10:30 PM
• Dietary Notes: Limited vegetarian options available
• Wine List: Extensive selection of French wines, particularly from Bordeaux
• Languages: French menu with English translations available
• Dress Code: Smart casual

The Signature Duck Confit at Le Petit Canard emerges from a meticulous 48-hour preparation process, resulting in perfectly crispy skin and tender meat that effortlessly falls off the bone. Served with golden-brown pommes sarladaises and a simple green salad, this classic preparation exemplifies the restaurant's philosophy of letting quality ingredients shine. The duck is sourced exclusively from family farms in the Périgord region, ensuring consistent quality and authentic flavor.

Insider Tip: Request a table in the back room near the exposed stone wall for a more intimate dining experience, and ask about the daily special preparation of duck, which often features creative seasonal variations not listed on the regular menu.

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate dining experience, arrive for the first seating at 7:00 PM when the duck confit is at its crispiest and most perfectly prepared. Pair your meal with a glass of Madiran wine, specifically selected by the owner to complement the rich flavors of duck. The restaurant's sommelier can guide you through regional wine selections that perfectly match your chosen duck preparation.

Practical Advice:

Credit cards are accepted, but carrying some cash is recommended for tipping. The restaurant is a 5-minute walk from Saint-Georges metro station, and while street parking is available, public transportation is recommended during peak dining hours. For groups larger than four, contact the restaurant directly rather than using online booking platforms to facilitate proper accommodation.

Bistrot Chez L'Ami Jean: Rustic Excellence

Tucked away in the 7th arrondissement, Bistrot Chez L'Ami Jean stands as a demonstration of authentic Parisian bistro culture, where Chef Stéphane Jégo's masterful interpretation of duck confit has earned legendary status among locals and food critics alike. The restaurant's rustic wooden interior, with its vintage posters and communal tables, creates the perfect backdrop for one of the city's most memorable dining experiences.

This beloved institution has been serving its signature duck confit since 1931, perfecting the art of slow-cooking duck legs in their own fat until achieving that quintessential combination of crispy skin and tender, flavorful meat. While many restaurants in Paris offer duck confit, Chez L'Ami Jean's version stands apart through its precise execution and the chef's commitment to sourcing from small-scale producers in France's southwest region.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €28-35 for duck confit main course
• Reservations: Essential, book 2-3 weeks in advance
• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 12:00-14:30 and 19:00-22:30
• Dress Code: Smart casual
• Languages: French menu with English translations available
• Dietary Notes: Not suitable for vegetarians; gluten-free options limited

The Duck Confit Experience

The duck confit at Chez L'Ami Jean exemplifies the bistrot's philosophy of rustic excellence. The dish arrives with perfectly crisped skin that crackles under your fork, revealing succulent meat that literally falls off the bone. Served with pommes sarladaises (potatoes cooked in duck fat) and a simple green salad, the dish demonstrates why this cooking method has endured for centuries. Located at 27 Rue Malar, the restaurant's intimate setting accommodates only 40 diners per service, contributing to the exceptional attention to detail in each plate.

Insider Tip: Request a table in the back room near the kitchen for a front-row view of Chef Jégo's theatrical cooking style and the chance to receive occasional off-menu amuse-bouches.

Pro Tips:

The ideal time to experience Chez L'Ami Jean's duck confit is during the winter months when the dish's rich flavors and warming properties can be fully appreciated. Book the first dinner service at 19:00 to guarantee you get the most attentive service and the freshest preparation. Consider ordering the restaurant's famous rice pudding for dessert, as it provides the perfect light contrast to the rich duck confit.

Practical Advice:

While credit cards are accepted, carrying some cash is recommended for the tip. The restaurant can be quite loud and energetic, so request a quiet corner if you're seeking a more intimate dining experience. French etiquette is important here – greet the staff with "Bonjour" or "Bonsoir" upon arrival, and remember that water and bread are complimentary but should be requested.

Au Petit Sud Ouest: Southwestern French Heritage

Best Places for Duck Confit in Paris: Au Petit Sud Ouest

Southwestern French Heritage

Nestled in the charming 7th arrondissement, Au Petit Sud Ouest stands as a symbol of authentic Southwestern French cuisine, particularly celebrated for its masterful preparation of duck confit. This family-owned establishment has been preserving the culinary traditions of France's Périgord region for over three decades, offering Parisians and visitors alike a genuine taste of provincial French cooking.

The restaurant's dedication to Southwestern French heritage is evident in every aspect, from the rustic decor featuring vintage copper cookware to the carefully curated wine list highlighting bottles from the Bordeaux and Bergerac regions. Their duck confit, a cornerstone of Southwestern French cuisine, undergoes a meticulous preparation process that spans several days, resulting in meat that's tender enough to fall off the bone while maintaining a perfectly crispy skin.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €28-45 for main dishes
• Reservations: Essential, especially for dinner (book 2-3 days ahead)
• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 12:00-14:30 and 19:00-22:30
• Dietary Notes: Specializes in duck dishes; limited vegetarian options
• Wine List: Extensive selection of Southwestern French wines
• Dress Code: Smart casual

The signature duck confit at Au Petit Sud Ouest is prepared using traditional methods passed down through generations. The duck legs are first cured with salt and aromatic herbs, then slowly cooked in their own fat at a precise temperature. Located at 46 Avenue de la Bourdonnais, the restaurant offers stunning views of the Eiffel Tower from select tables. Insider tip: Request table 7 or 8 during booking for the best tower views while dining.

Pro Tips:

The ideal time to experience Au Petit Sud Ouest is during weekday lunch service when the atmosphere is more relaxed and the prix fixe menu offers excellent value. Consider ordering the house specialty "Trilogie de Canard" which provides a sampling of three different duck preparations, including their renowned confit. Wine enthusiasts should request a consultation with the sommelier, who can recommend perfect pairings from their exceptional collection of regional wines.

Practical Advice:

The restaurant's proximity to the Eiffel Tower means it can get busy with tourists during peak season (July-August). Book well in advance and consider dining during shoulder season (April-May or September-October) for a more authentic experience. The restaurant offers a take-away option for their confit, properly packed for travel, making it an excellent souvenir to enjoy later.