9 Best Spots for Traditional Blanquette De Veau in Paris

I've found Paris's finest spots for traditional blanquette de veau, that comforting French veal stew in creamy sauce! Start at the intimate Le Bistrot D'henri in Saint-Germain (€24-28), then try La Fontaine De Mars's historic 1908 recipe (€32-38). Don't miss Chez L'Ami Louis in the Marais, Bistrot Paul Bert, Au Petit Riche, Allard, Bistrot Des Vosges, Le Baratin, and Josephine Chez Dumonet. Let's explore what makes each bistro's version uniquely special!

Le Bistrot D'henri: a Hidden Gem in Saint-Germain

Tucked away in the charming streets of Saint-Germain, Le Bistrot D'henri stands as a showcase of authentic Parisian bistro culture, offering one of the city's finest interpretations of blanquette de veau. This intimate 20-seat restaurant, family-owned since 1973, has maintained its traditional approach to French cuisine while remaining surprisingly under the tourist radar.

The restaurant's blanquette de veau has earned a loyal following among locals and food enthusiasts for its perfectly tender veal, delicately creamy sauce, and precise balance of traditional aromatics. Chef Henri Martin's version stays true to the classic recipe while incorporating subtle refinements that elevate this humble dish to remarkable heights.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €24-28 for blanquette de veau
• Reservations: Essential, especially for dinner (2-3 days in advance)
• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 12:00-14:30 and 19:00-22:30
• Dietary Notes: Not suitable for vegetarians; gluten-free adaptation possible
• Wine Pairing: House selection of white Burgundy available
• Payment: Cash and major credit cards accepted

The blanquette de veau at Le Bistrot D'henri stands out for its exceptionally tender meat, sourced from a small family farm in Normandy. The veal is slowly simmered for hours in an aromatic court-bouillon before being finished in the signature cream sauce, enhanced with mushrooms and pearl onions. Located at 16 Rue Princesse in the 6th arrondissement, this cozy establishment maintains the intimate atmosphere of a traditional French bistrot. Insider tip: Request table 7, nestled in the corner by the window, offering the best people-watching opportunity while enjoying your meal.

Pro Tips:

The best time to experience Le Bistrot D'henri's blanquette de veau is during weekday lunch service when the atmosphere is more relaxed and the dish has been simmering since early morning. Regular patrons know to request extra sauce, which the kitchen happily provides in a small pitcher – perfect for soaking up with the restaurant's exceptional baguette.

Practical Advice:

When dining at Le Bistrot D'henri, arrive 5-10 minutes before your reservation time, as the small space means turning tables is precisely timed. Speaking basic French phrases is appreciated by the staff, and while English is understood, ordering in French enhances the authentic experience. Consider making reservations for future visits while you're there, as regulars often book their favorite tables weeks in advance.

La Fontaine De Mars: Traditional Excellence Since 1908

Nestled in the charming 7th arrondissement, La Fontaine de Mars stands as a symbol of authentic French gastronomy, particularly renowned for its exceptional Blanquette de Veau. This historic establishment has been serving traditional French cuisine to both locals and visitors for over a century, maintaining its reputation as one of Paris's most reliable destinations for classic French comfort food.

The restaurant's signature Blanquette de Veau exemplifies the pinnacle of French culinary craftsmanship, prepared according to time-honored recipes passed down through generations of chefs. The dish's delicate veal, surrounded by perfectly prepared vegetables and wrapped in a velvety white sauce, represents the epitome of French technique and tradition.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €32-38 for Blanquette de Veau
• Reservation Required: Yes, especially for dinner (2-3 weeks in advance)
• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 12:00-14:30 and 19:30-22:30
• Dress Code: Smart casual
• Dietary Considerations: Traditional preparation contains dairy and gluten
• Languages: English menu available
• Payment Methods: Major credit cards accepted

The Setting

Housed in a classic Parisian building with its distinctive red-and-white checkered tablecloths, La Fontaine de Mars creates an authentic bistro atmosphere that transports diners to the Paris of yesteryear. The intimate dining room features vintage photographs and original architectural details, while the covered terrace offers year-round outdoor seating. Insider tip: Request a table in the back room near the fireplace for the most atmospheric experience.

The Blanquette de Veau

The restaurant's version of this classic dish features tender veal shoulder, slowly simmered with aromatic vegetables and mushrooms in a delicate cream sauce. The meat is sourced from selected French farms, guaranteeing superior quality and taste. Each portion is generously sized and served with perfectly prepared rice pilaf. Insider tip: Order the house wine selection specifically paired with the Blanquette for an enhanced dining experience.

Pro Tips:

The best time to enjoy Blanquette de Veau at La Fontaine de Mars is during lunch service, when the atmosphere is more relaxed and securing a reservation is easier. For the ultimate experience, visit during the cooler months (October-March) when this hearty dish is most satisfying. The restaurant's sommelier can suggest excellent wine pairings from their extensive French wine list, particularly focusing on white Burgundies that complement the delicate flavors of the dish.

Practical Advice:

While credit cards are accepted, always carry some cash for gratuity. Make reservations well in advance, especially for evening service or weekend lunch. When booking, specify if you're celebrating a special occasion, as the staff will guarantee extra attention to your experience. The restaurant is a short walk from the Eiffel Tower, making it an ideal location for combining sightseeing with an authentic French dining experience.

Chez L'Ami Louis: The Classic Marais Experience

Nestled in the historic Marais district, Chez L'Ami Louis stands as a symbol of traditional French gastronomy, serving one of Paris's most celebrated versions of Blanquette de Veau. This historic establishment, dating back to 1924, has maintained its original wood-paneled walls and vintage fixtures, creating an authentic backdrop for experiencing this classic French comfort dish.

The restaurant's Blanquette de Veau has earned international acclaim for staying true to the traditional preparation method, featuring tender veal in a delicate cream sauce with pearl onions and mushrooms. While many Parisian restaurants have modernized their approach to this dish, Chez L'Ami Louis steadfastly maintains the time-honored recipe that has satisfied diners for nearly a century.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €38-45 for Blanquette de Veau
• Reservation Required: Yes, minimum 2-3 weeks in advance
• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 12:00-14:30 and 19:00-23:00
• Dress Code: Smart casual
• English Menu Available: Yes
• Wine Pairing Available: Yes
• Dietary Modifications: Limited flexibility

The Blanquette Experience

The signature Blanquette de Veau at Chez L'Ami Louis features locally-sourced veal from carefully selected French producers. The meat is slowly simmered for hours in a aromatic court-bouillon before being finished in the traditional cream sauce. Located at 32 Rue du Vertbois in the 3rd arrondissement, the restaurant's intimate setting accommodates only 48 diners at a time. Insider tip: Request table 14, which offers the best view of the open kitchen while maintaining privacy.

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate Blanquette de Veau experience, visit during winter months (October-March) when the dish truly comes into its own. Arrive early for your reservation to enjoy an aperitif at the zinc bar, where you can watch the practiced movements of the kitchen staff preparing this labor-intensive dish. Consider ordering a bottle of white Burgundy, specifically a Meursault, which the restaurant's sommeliers carefully select to complement the delicate flavors of the Blanquette.

Practical Advice:

Securing a reservation requires persistence – call during off-peak hours (15:00-17:00) for the best chance of speaking with staff. The restaurant accepts credit cards but prefers cash payments. Given the portion sizes, consider sharing an appetizer if you plan to fully enjoy the Blanquette. Remember that service can be deliberately unhurried, so plan for a minimum two-hour dining experience and avoid booking other activities immediately afterward.

Bistrot Paul Bert: Modern Mastery of an Old Favorite

Nestled in the charming 11th arrondissement, Bistrot Paul Bert stands as an homage to Paris's enduring love affair with traditional French cuisine. This beloved establishment has earned its reputation as one of the city's premier destinations for Blanquette de Veau, transforming this classic comfort dish into a refined culinary experience that honors its humble origins while elevating it to new heights.

Under the guidance of chef Bertrand Auboyneau, the restaurant's interpretation of Blanquette de Veau showcases the perfect balance between tradition and innovation. The dish maintains its soul-warming essence while incorporating subtle modern touches that have made it a standout among Paris's competitive dining scene.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €32-38 for Blanquette de Veau
• Reservations: Essential, especially for dinner (2-3 weeks in advance)
• Dress Code: Smart casual
• Service Hours: Lunch 12:00-14:30, Dinner 19:30-23:00
• Closed: Sundays and Mondays
• Dietary Notes: Not suitable for vegetarians; gluten-free adaptation available with advance notice

The Blanquette Experience:

At Bistrot Paul Bert, the Blanquette de Veau is prepared using carefully selected veal from local suppliers, slowly simmered in a rich, creamy sauce that achieves the perfect consistency without being heavy. The dish is served with pearl onions, mushrooms, and baby carrots, each vegetable cooked to maintain its distinct flavor while complementing the tender meat. The accompanying rice is not an afterthought but rather a specially selected variety that perfectly absorbs the delicate sauce.

Location and Setting:

18 Rue Paul Bert, 75011 Paris

The restaurant occupies a classic Parisian bistrot space with vintage tiles, mirrors, and intimate lighting. The zinc bar and traditional furnishings create an authentic atmosphere that enhances the dining experience.

Insider Tip: Request table 14, situated in a cozy corner that offers both privacy and a view of the restaurant's charming ambiance.

Pro Tips:

Lunch service offers the best value and typically features a more relaxed atmosphere, perfect for fully appreciating the Blanquette de Veau. The restaurant's wine steward can recommend excellent pairings from their extensive list of French wines, with particular expertise in matching whites that complement the delicate flavors of the dish. Consider ordering the Blanquette as part of the prix fixe menu for the best value and a complete bistrot experience.

Practical Advice:

English-speaking staff members are available, but it's helpful to learn basic French phrases for ordering. The restaurant's popularity means that last-minute cancellations rarely open up, so stick to your reservation time. During warmer months, request outdoor seating for an authentic Parisian dining experience, but be prepared to move inside if weather changes, as table reassignment isn't guaranteed.

Au Petit Riche: Belle Époque Elegance & Authentic Flavors

Nestled in the 9th arrondissement, Au Petit Riche stands as an indication of Paris's golden age of gastronomy, serving one of the city's most celebrated versions of blanquette de veau since 1854. The restaurant's Belle Époque interior, with its ornate mirrors, dark wood paneling, and vintage light fixtures, creates an atmospheric backdrop for enjoying this classic French comfort dish.

The blanquette de veau at Au Petit Riche exemplifies the restaurant's commitment to traditional French cuisine, prepared with meticulous attention to technique and quality ingredients. The dish's delicate cream sauce, tender veal, and perfectly cooked vegetables demonstrate why this establishment has remained a favorite among both locals and gastronomes for over 160 years.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €32-38 for blanquette de veau
• Reservation Required: Yes, especially for dinner and weekends
• Best Times: Tuesday-Saturday, 12:00-14:30 and 19:00-22:30
• Dress Code: Smart casual
• Dietary Considerations: Traditional recipe contains dairy and gluten
• Wine Pairing: Extensive wine list with options from €35-200+
• Languages: English menu available

The Restaurant Experience:

Au Petit Riche's blanquette de veau arrives in a traditional copper serving dish, accompanied by perfectly cooked rice pilaf. The veal, sourced from select French producers, is slow-cooked to tender perfection in a subtle bouillon before being finished with the signature creamy sauce, enriched with egg yolks and cream. The dish is garnished with pearl onions, button mushrooms, and fresh parsley, maintaining the traditional white-on-white aesthetic that gives blanquette its name.

Location and Accessibility:

25 Rue Le Peletier, 75009 Paris

Metro: Grands Boulevards (lines 8, 9)

Open Tuesday through Saturday

Lunch: 12:00-14:30

Dinner: 19:00-22:30

Insider tip: Request table 15 or 16 in the back room for the most authentic Belle Époque atmosphere and a view of the entire restaurant.

Pro Tips:

The best experience comes from dining during weekday lunch service, when the kitchen is less rushed and the chef can pay extra attention to each order. Consider ordering the blanquette de veau as part of the prix fixe menu, which offers better value and includes classic French starters and desserts that complement the main course perfectly. Pairing with a white Burgundy, particularly a Meursault or Puligny-Montrachet, elevates the dining experience greatly.

Practical Advice:

Reservations can be made up to one month in advance and are essential for dinner service. Request a table in the main dining room rather than the modern extension to fully appreciate the historic ambiance. During summer months, the restaurant can become warm, so dress appropriately and consider lunch service when temperatures are more moderate. Credit cards are accepted, but it's wise to carry some cash for tipping. The staff appreciates when guests make an effort to speak some basic French, though English is understood.

Allard: Where Julia Child Found Inspiration

Nestled in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Restaurant Allard stands as a living reflection of classic French bistro cuisine and holds a special place in culinary history as one of Julia Child's favorite Parisian establishments. This historic restaurant, founded in 1932 by Marthe Allard, became an essential source of inspiration for Child during her transformative years in Paris, particularly influencing her understanding of traditional French cooking techniques.

The restaurant's blanquette de veau, a dish that Julia Child frequently praised, remains one of the most authentic representations of this classic French comfort food in Paris. Today, under the stewardship of Alain Ducasse's restaurant group, Allard maintains its commitment to traditional cooking while honoring the legacy of both Marthe Allard and Julia Child's influence on French-American culinary relations.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €65-95 per person
• Reservation Required: Yes, at least 2-3 weeks in advance
• Best Times: Lunch service (less crowded, better value)
• Dress Code: Smart casual
• Specialty: Traditional French bistro classics
• Dietary Restrictions: Limited vegetarian options
• Languages: English-speaking staff available

The Restaurant Experience:

Allard's blanquette de veau is served in the traditional manner, featuring tender veal in a creamy white sauce, accompanied by perfectly cooked rice and seasonal vegetables. The dish is prepared in the same copper pots used since the restaurant's founding, contributing to its distinctive flavor profile. Located at 41 Rue Saint-André des Arts, Allard is open Tuesday through Saturday for lunch (12:00-2:30 PM) and dinner (7:00-10:30 PM). Insider tip: Request table 12, Julia Child's preferred spot, which offers both privacy and a view of the restaurant's historic dining room.

Pro Tips:

The best experience at Allard comes from embracing their traditional service style and timing. Arrive for lunch service at 12:30 PM to secure the ideal preparation of blanquette de veau, as this complex dish requires careful timing and preparation. Consider ordering a half-bottle of white Burgundy, specifically chosen to complement the delicate flavors of the blanquette. The restaurant's sommeliers are particularly knowledgeable about pairing wines with this signature dish.

Practical Advice:

When dining at Allard, remember that the portion sizes are generous, reflecting traditional French bistro service. Consider sharing appetizers or skipping them altogether to fully appreciate the blanquette de veau. Payment methods include all major credit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for gratuities. For the most authentic experience, visit during cooler months (October through March) when the blanquette de veau's warming qualities can be best appreciated.

Bistrot Des Vosges: the Local's Best-Kept Secret

Tucked away in the charming 3rd arrondissement, Bistrot Des Vosges stands as a reference to authentic Parisian culinary tradition, serving one of the city's finest renditions of blanquette de veau. This family-owned establishment has been perfecting their recipe for over three decades, earning a devoted following among locals who prize both the restaurant's unpretentious atmosphere and its masterful execution of this classic French dish.

While tourists flock to more famous establishments, those in the know make their way to this modest bistrot, where the blanquette de veau embodies the ideal balance of tender veal, delicate cream sauce, and perfectly cooked vegetables. The restaurant's commitment to traditional cooking methods and high-quality ingredients has made it a neighborhood institution and a destination for serious food enthusiasts.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €24-28 for blanquette de veau
• Reservation Required: Yes, especially for dinner
• Best Times: Tuesday-Friday lunch for shortest wait
• Dietary Notes: No vegetarian alternatives available
• Wine Pairing: House white wine recommended
• Languages: French menu with English translations available

The blanquette de veau at Bistrot Des Vosges distinguishes itself through its exceptional sauce, made daily using a generations-old recipe that includes a precise blend of cream, butter, and mushroom essence. The veal, sourced from a small farm in Normandy, is slow-cooked for hours until it reaches the perfect tenderness. Located at 12 Rue de Turenne, the restaurant serves lunch from 12:00-2:30 PM and dinner from 7:00-10:30 PM, Tuesday through Saturday. Insider tip: Request table 7 in the corner, which offers the best atmosphere and view of the historic dining room.

Pro Tips:

The ideal time to experience Bistrot Des Vosges's blanquette de veau is during Wednesday lunch service, when the chef prepares a fresh batch for both lunch and dinner service. Regular patrons know to request extra sauce, which the kitchen happily provides in a small pitcher – perfect for soaking up with the restaurant's crusty house-made bread. For the best experience, arrive at opening time and begin with their house aperitif, a unique blend of white wine and local herbs.

Practical Advice:

While the restaurant accepts credit cards, bringing cash is recommended as sometimes their card machine experiences issues. Make reservations at least three days in advance, and be prepared to speak basic French or bring a translation app. The portion size is generous, so consider sharing appetizers if ordering the blanquette de veau as your main course. The restaurant's central location makes it easily accessible via Metro stations République or Saint-Sébastien-Froissart.

Le Baratin: A Contemporary Take on Tradition

Nestled in the vibrant Belleville neighborhood, Le Baratin has earned its reputation as one of Paris's most innovative destinations for classic French cuisine, particularly their remarkable interpretation of blanquette de veau. Under the guidance of Chef Raquel Carena, this intimate bistro seamlessly melds traditional French cooking techniques with contemporary flair, creating a blanquette that honors its roots while embracing modern culinary sensibilities.

What sets Le Baratin's blanquette de veau apart is their commitment to sourcing exceptional veal from small-scale local producers and their subtle yet significant updates to the classic preparation. The dish maintains its soul-warming essence while incorporating refined touches that elevate it beyond the conventional versions found throughout Paris.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €32-38 for main courses
• Reservations: Essential, book 2-3 weeks in advance
• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 12:30-2:30pm and 7:30-10:30pm
• Dietary Notes: Classic preparation contains dairy and gluten
• Wine Pairing: Extensive natural wine list available
• Dress Code: Smart casual
• Language: Limited English spoken

Le Baratin's version of blanquette de veau stands out through its thoughtful refinements. The veal is cooked to tender perfection in a light yet creamy sauce that's been updated with subtle notes of fresh herbs and citrus. The traditional garnish of pearl onions and mushrooms is enhanced with seasonal vegetables, adding color and contemporary appeal. Located at 3 Rue Jouye-Rouve in the 20th arrondissement, this cozy establishment seats only 40 guests, creating an intimate dining experience. Insider tip: Request a table near the open kitchen to watch Chef Carena at work.

Pro Tips:

The best experience at Le Baratin comes with embracing their local, neighborhood atmosphere. Visit during weekday lunch for a more relaxed pace and better chances of securing a reservation. The restaurant's natural wine program is exceptional, so trust your server's pairing recommendations – they often suggest unexpected combinations that perfectly complement the blanquette's refined flavors.

Practical Advice:

While Le Baratin accepts reservations by phone, French-speaking guests have better success securing tables. Consider asking your hotel concierge to make the reservation or email the restaurant directly. The restaurant's location in Belleville means it's slightly off the typical tourist path – plan extra time for travel and consider taking a taxi or Uber, especially for evening reservations.

Josephine Chez Dumonet: Time-Honored Recipe & Technique

Nestled in the charming 6th arrondissement, Josephine Chez Dumonet stands as a beacon of traditional French cuisine, particularly renowned for its exceptional Blanquette de Veau. This historic bistro, operating since 1898, has perfected the art of this classic veal stew, maintaining the same time-honored techniques that have delighted Parisians for generations.

The restaurant's interpretation of Blanquette de Veau exemplifies why this dish remains a cornerstone of French gastronomy. Using premium veal shoulder, pearl onions, and mushrooms in a delicate cream sauce, Chef Jean-Christian Dumonet continues his family's legacy of preparing this dish with meticulous attention to traditional methods and quality ingredients.

Quick Facts:

• Price Range: €32-38 for full portion, €22 for demi-portion
• Reservation Required: Yes, typically 2-3 weeks in advance
• Service Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 12:30-2:30 PM and 7:30-10:30 PM
• Dress Code: Smart casual
• Dietary Notes: Contains dairy, gluten; no substitutions available
• Wine Pairing: Available upon request

The Blanquette Experience:

The dish arrives in a gleaming copper serving vessel, accompanied by perfectly cooked rice pilaf. The veal, sourced from selected French farmers, is tender enough to cut with a fork, while the sauce achieves the perfect balance between richness and delicacy. The restaurant's version stands out for its use of yellow wine (Vin Jaune) in the sauce, a closely guarded secret that adds an incomparable depth of flavor.

Location and Details:

117 Rue du Cherche-Midi, 75006 Paris

Tel: +33 1 45 48 52 40

Metro: Duroc or Falguière

Insider Tip: Request table 8 or 12 – these corner banquettes offer the best people-watching views while maintaining intimacy.

Pro Tips:

For the ultimate Blanquette de Veau experience, visit during winter months (October-March) when the dish truly comes into its own. Order the demi-portion if you want to save room for the restaurant's equally famous Grand Marnier soufflé. The best time to secure a reservation is by calling exactly three weeks before your desired date, when the booking calendar opens.

Practical Advice:

The restaurant accepts credit cards but prefers cash for bills under €50. While tourists often gravitate toward dinner service, lunch offers the same quality with better availability and slightly lower prices. Remember that portions are generous – consider sharing or opting for demi-portions if you want to sample multiple dishes. English-speaking staff are available, but having basic French phrases ready is appreciated and enhances the authentic bistro experience.