8 Best Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants in Paris

8 Best Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants in Paris

I've found Paris's top veggie spots that'll make any plant-based foodie swoon! Le Potager De Charlotte leads with its innovative seven-course tasting menu, while Mesa wows with mushroom "foie gras." Don't miss Aujourd'hui Demain's eco-hub experience or VG Pâtisserie's incredible vegan croissants. Land&Monkeys, Le Grenier De Notre-Dame, Hank Burger, and L'Arpège round out the must-try list. From casual cafés to Michelin-starred dining, there's so much more to discover in Paris's plant-based paradise!

Le Potager De Charlotte: a Gourmet Vegan Experience

gourmet vegan culinary adventure

Nestled in Paris's 9th and 17th arrondissements, Le Potager de Charlotte stands as an illustration of the evolution of French cuisine, proving that plant-based dining can be both sophisticated and satisfying. This family-run establishment, founded by brothers David and Adrien Valentin, has revolutionized the Parisian vegan scene by creating innovative dishes that appeal to both vegans and curious omnivores alike.

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The restaurant's commitment to sustainable, seasonal ingredients combined with creative culinary techniques has earned it a devoted following among locals and tourists. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted to showcase the versatility of plant-based ingredients, challenging preconceptions about vegan cuisine while maintaining the elegance and attention to detail that French gastronomy is known for.

Quick Facts:

  • Price Range: €32-42 for dinner tasting menu, €25-30 for lunch
  • Reservation: Essential, especially for dinner service
  • Opening Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 12:00-14:30 and 19:00-22:30
  • Locations: Rue Rébeval (9th) and Rue Truffaut (17th)
  • Dietary Considerations: 100% vegan, gluten-free options available
  • Languages: English-speaking staff available

The Signature Experience

Le Potager de Charlotte's tasting menu represents the pinnacle of their culinary artistry. The seven-course experience features innovative dishes like their renowned chickpea and rice pancake topped with cashew cream, and their signature avocado "hard-boiled egg" style. Located in two intimate venues, both locations offer a warm, minimalist atmosphere that lets the food take center stage. Insider tip: Request a table near the open kitchen at the Rue Rébeval location to watch the chefs craft their artistic presentations.

À La Carte Options

The lunch menu offers a more casual but equally impressive experience, with three courses priced at €25. Standout dishes include the pan-seared oyster mushrooms and the house-made seasonal desserts. The Rue Truffaut location features a charming outdoor terrace, perfect for summer dining. Little-known fact: The restaurant offers a special "discovery plate" not listed on the menu, available upon request for those who want to sample multiple appetizers in smaller portions.

Pro Tips:

The best experience at Le Potager de Charlotte comes with careful timing and preparation. Book dinner reservations at least two weeks in advance, or try lunch service on weekdays for easier access. The first seating at dinner (19:00) typically offers the most relaxed atmosphere and best service, as the kitchen is fresh and fully stocked. For photography enthusiasts, the natural lighting near the windows during lunch service provides ideal conditions for food photography.

Practical Advice:

Both locations are accessible by Metro, but the 9th arrondissement venue offers better connectivity. Consider dietary restrictions beyond vegan preferences, as some dishes contain nuts or soy. While walk-ins are possible during lunch, they're not recommended. The restaurant accommodates English speakers, but having basic French phrases handy enhances the authentic Parisian dining experience. Cash and major credit cards are accepted, and gratuity is included in the bill as per French custom.

Mesa: Plant-Based French Fusion

french inspired plant based cuisine

Mesa stands as a shining example of Paris's evolving culinary landscape, where traditional French gastronomy meets contemporary plant-based innovation. Located in the trendy 11th arrondissement, this sophisticated establishment has revolutionized the perception of vegan dining in the French capital since its opening in 2019.

Chef-owner Alexandre Giesbert has masterfully crafted a menu that pays homage to classic French techniques while embracing global flavors and plant-based ingredients. The restaurant's minimalist décor, featuring exposed brick walls and sleek wooden furnishings, creates an atmosphere that's both elegant and welcoming, setting the stage for a memorable dining experience.

Quick Facts:

  • Price Range: €35-65 per person for dinner
  • Reservations: Essential, especially for dinner (book 2-3 weeks in advance)
  • Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 12:00-14:30 and 19:00-22:30
  • Dietary Considerations: 100% vegan, gluten-free options available
  • Languages: Menu in French and English
  • Dress Code: Smart casual
  • Payment Methods: Major credit cards accepted

The Dining Experience:

Mesa's rotating seasonal menu showcases innovative dishes like mushroom-based "foie gras" and jackfruit "coq au vin," expertly plated to rival any traditional French restaurant. The restaurant occupies a cozy space at 209 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine, offering intimate seating for 40 guests. Insider tip: Request Table 8 by the window for the best ambiance and people-watching opportunities.

The wine list deserves special mention, featuring an extensive selection of natural and biodynamic wines, many exclusive to Mesa. The sommelier specializes in perfect pairings for plant-based cuisine, offering unique insights into how certain wines complement specific vegetable-based dishes.

Pro Tips:

The best experience at Mesa comes from embracing their "carte blanche" menu, where the chef creates a personalized multi-course experience based on seasonal ingredients and your preferences. Book the first seating at 19:00 for the most attentive service and best lighting for food photography. The restaurant's quiet corner location makes it perfect for special occasions or intimate conversations.

Practical Advice:

Consider booking lunch service for a more relaxed experience and better value, with a three-course menu available at €29. English-speaking staff are always present, but having basic French phrases handy enhances the authentic Parisian dining experience. The restaurant is a 5-minute walk from the Faidherbe-Chaligny metro station (Line 8), making it easily accessible from most Paris locations.

Aujourd'hui Demain: Eco-Friendly Dining in the Marais

sustainable dining in marais

Nestled in the heart of Paris's trendy Marais district, Aujourd'hui Demain stands as a pioneering establishment that seamlessly combines a vegan restaurant, concept store, and eco-friendly lifestyle hub. This innovative space has transformed the perception of plant-based dining in the French capital, offering sophisticated cuisine that challenges traditional French gastronomy while maintaining the elegance and refinement Paris is known for.

Beyond its role as a restaurant, Aujourd'hui Demain serves as a demonstration of sustainable living in one of the world's culinary capitals. The venue's commitment to environmental consciousness extends from its carefully sourced ingredients to its zero-waste philosophy, making it a must-visit destination for both committed vegans and curious omnivores seeking to explore the future of conscious dining.

Quick Facts:

  • Price Range: €15-30 for main courses
  • Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 12:00-22:00
  • Reservations: Recommended for dinner service
  • Location: 42 Rue du Chemin Vert, 75011 Paris
  • Payment Methods: All major credit cards accepted
  • Languages: English menu available
  • Dietary Considerations: 100% vegan, gluten-free options available

The Restaurant Experience

The dining area offers a bright, minimalist aesthetic with sustainable furniture and natural materials throughout. The menu changes seasonally, featuring creative interpretations of French classics alongside international dishes. Standout offerings include the signature "cheese" plate made from house-fermented nuts and the decadent chocolate mousse that rivals any traditional French dessert. Insider tip: Request a table by the window for prime people-watching opportunities in the vibrant Marais neighborhood.

The Concept Store

Adjacent to the restaurant, the concept store showcases a carefully curated selection of sustainable fashion, beauty products, and lifestyle items. All products are ethically sourced and vegan-certified, making it one of Paris's premier destinations for conscious shopping. The store frequently hosts workshops on sustainable living and cooking demonstrations. Insider tip: Visit on Thursday evenings for special events and product launches often featuring local artisans and designers.

Pro Tips:

To fully experience Aujourd'hui Demain, arrive between 15:00-17:00 when the restaurant is less crowded, allowing time to browse the concept store before dinner. The chef's tasting menu, while not advertised, can be requested 24 hours in advance and offers the most thorough sampling of their innovative cuisine. For the best value, opt for the lunch menu which includes a starter, main course, and dessert at a reduced price compared to evening service.

Practical Advice:

Make reservations at least a week in advance for weekend dining, particularly during tourist season (June-September). The restaurant is accessible via Metro lines 3, 5, and 9 (Saint-Ambroise station), and while street parking is available, public transportation is recommended. For those with specific dietary requirements beyond vegan, communicate these when booking as the kitchen is happy to accommodate but requires advance notice.

VG Pâtisserie: French Pastries Gone Vegan

vegan french pastry delights

Traditional French pastries have long been synonymous with butter, cream, and eggs, making them off-limits for vegans and those with dairy restrictions. Enter VG Pâtisserie, a groundbreaking establishment in Paris's 11th arrondissement that has masterfully reimagined classic French pastries without animal products. This innovative patisserie proves that plant-based ingredients can create equally decadent and visually stunning French desserts.

Founded by passionate vegan pastry chef Bérénice Leconte, VG Pâtisserie has revolutionized the Parisian pastry scene by offering everything from croissants to éclairs that maintain the traditional texture and taste while being completely plant-based. The shop has gained recognition not just from vegans but from traditional pastry enthusiasts who often can't tell the difference between these innovative creations and conventional French pastries.

Quick Facts:

  • Price Range: €3.50-€8 per pastry
  • Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10:00-19:00, Sunday 10:00-17:00
  • Reservation Required: No, but pre-orders recommended for large quantities
  • Location: 123 Boulevard Voltaire, 75011 Paris
  • Payment Methods: Credit cards and cash accepted
  • Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings for the freshest selection
  • Dietary Notes: 100% vegan, some gluten-free options available

Signature Offerings:

The vegan croissant (€3.50) stands as VG Pâtisserie's crowning achievement, featuring the same flaky, buttery layers as traditional versions through a proprietary blend of plant-based ingredients. The result is so convincing that it won the shop numerous awards and media attention. Available daily, but arrives fresh at 10:00 AM and often sells out by early afternoon.

The Paris-Brest (€7) showcases how traditional French pastries can be successfully veganized without compromise. The ring-shaped choux pastry is filled with praline cream made from hazelnuts and almonds, offering the same rich, nutty flavor profile as the original. Insider tip: Ask for the "chef's special" version, which includes a hidden layer of dark chocolate ganache.

Pro Tips:

Visit between 10:00-11:00 AM for the best selection, as popular items often sell out by mid-afternoon. Consider calling ahead if you're interested in specific items, especially during weekends or holidays. For photography enthusiasts, the morning light through the shop's windows creates perfect conditions for capturing the pastries' intricate details.

Practical Advice:

While walk-ins are welcome, larger orders (6+ items) should be placed at least 24 hours in advance. The shop can get quite busy during weekend brunch hours, so weekday visits are recommended for a more relaxed experience. The staff speaks both French and English, and they're happy to explain their unique ingredients and processes to curious customers. Consider bringing a small cooler bag if you plan to transport pastries for more than 30 minutes, as some items are delicate and temperature-sensitive.

Land&Monkeys: Sustainable Bakery and Café

sustainable bakery and caf

Vegetarian Vibes in a Traditional Boulangerie: Land&Monkeys

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Land&Monkeys has revolutionized the Parisian bakery scene by becoming the city's first 100% plant-based French bakery chain. Founded in 2020, this innovative establishment proves that traditional French pastries can be perfectly executed without animal products, offering everything from buttery croissants to delicate éclairs – all completely vegan.

The bakery's commitment to sustainability extends beyond its plant-based menu. Each location features eco-friendly packaging, zero-waste initiatives, and partnerships with local organic suppliers. The result is a modern interpretation of a French boulangerie that maintains the highest standards of traditional French baking while catering to contemporary dietary preferences and environmental concerns.

Quick Facts:

  • Price Range: €2-8 for pastries, €5-12 for lunch items
  • Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 7:30 PM (closed Mondays)
  • Multiple locations across Paris
  • No reservations needed
  • 100% vegan menu
  • Credit cards accepted
  • Peak hours: 8-10 AM and 12-2 PM
  • Best for breakfast and lunch

Signature Offerings:

Walking into Land&Monkeys feels like entering any premium Parisian bakery, with displays full of golden croissants, pain au chocolat, and artisanal bread. The difference lies in their innovative use of plant-based ingredients to achieve traditional textures and flavors. Their croissants rival traditional versions in flakiness and butter notes, while their seasonal fruit tarts showcase local produce atop perfectly crafted pastry cream. Located primarily in trendy neighborhoods like Le Marais and Canal Saint-Martin, each shop offers both takeaway and café seating.

Pro Tips:

Visit during off-peak hours (3-5 PM) to avoid queues and facilitate the best selection. While morning pastries are excellent, afternoon visits often yield fresh-baked specialty items not available earlier in the day. Consider their loyalty program for frequent visitors, which offers significant savings and occasional preview tastings of new items.

Practical Advice:

Items frequently sell out, especially popular breakfast pastries, so arriving early is recommended. For guaranteed availability of specific items, pre-ordering is available through their website 24 hours in advance. While pricing is slightly higher than traditional bakeries, portions are generous and the quality justifies the cost. Their locations near major attractions make them perfect for picking up picnic supplies for Luxembourg Gardens or Canal Saint-Martin.

Le Grenier De Notre-Dame: Paris's Vegetarian Pioneer

paris s first vegetarian restaurant

Established in 1978, Le Grenier de Notre-Dame stands as Paris's oldest vegetarian restaurant, a pioneering establishment that introduced meat-free dining to a city renowned for its love of traditional French cuisine. Nestled in the heart of the Latin Quarter, this historic eatery has been serving health-conscious and plant-based dishes for over four decades, maintaining its reputation as a sanctuary for vegetarians and vegans in a meat-centric culinary capital.

The restaurant's charm lies in its authentic bohemian atmosphere, complete with wooden beams, vintage decorations, and an intimate two-story setting. While Paris has seen a recent surge in plant-based dining options, Le Grenier de Notre-Dame remains a proof of the evolution of vegetarian cuisine in France, offering a blend of traditional French techniques with global vegetarian influences.

Quick Facts:

  • Price Range: €15-25 for main courses
  • Reservations: Recommended for dinner, especially weekends
  • Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 12:00-22:30 (closed Mondays)
  • Dietary Options: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available
  • Location: 18 Rue de la Bûcherie, 75005 Paris
  • Languages: Menu available in French and English
  • Payment Methods: Cash and major credit cards accepted

The Menu Experience

Le Grenier de Notre-Dame offers a diverse menu that changes seasonally, featuring both traditional French dishes adapted for vegetarians and international vegetarian cuisine. The restaurant is particularly famous for its seitan bourguignon, a plant-based take on the classic beef bourguignon, and its homemade desserts. Insider tip: Ask for the daily special, which often features experimental dishes before they make it to the regular menu.

Atmosphere and Setting

The restaurant spans two floors in a medieval building, with the upper floor offering intimate table settings and views of the bustling Latin Quarter. The rustic decor, complete with exposed wooden beams and vintage posters, creates a cozy, authentic Parisian atmosphere. Lesser-known fact: The building's cellar dates back to the 13th century and occasionally hosts private dining events.

Pro Tips:

For the best dining experience, visit during lunch hours (12:00-14:30) when the restaurant is less crowded and the prix fixe menu offers better value. Consider requesting a table on the upper floor near the window for the best ambiance and people-watching opportunities. The restaurant's proximity to Notre-Dame Cathedral makes it an ideal stop during sightseeing, but avoid the immediate post-sightseeing rush around 17:00-18:00.

Practical Advice:

Given its historic status and limited seating, making a reservation is essential, especially for dinner service. The restaurant's location in the touristy Latin Quarter means it can get quite busy during peak season (June-August). Consider visiting during shoulder season (April-May or September-October) for a more relaxed dining experience. Additionally, while the restaurant accepts credit cards, having some cash on hand is recommended, as card machines occasionally experience technical issues.

Hank Burger: Reimagined Plant-Based Fast Food

plant based fast food revolution

In the heart of Paris's vibrant food scene, Hank Burger stands as a reflection of how plant-based cuisine can revolutionize traditional fast food. This innovative establishment has transformed the concept of veggie burgers from bland alternatives to crave-worthy creations, earning a loyal following among both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Since its opening in 2014, Hank Burger has grown from a small counter-service spot to a must-visit destination for conscious diners seeking quick, satisfying meals. The restaurant's success lies in its ability to recreate the comfort and satisfaction of classic American-style burgers while maintaining a completely plant-based menu that appeals to Paris's increasingly eco-conscious dining scene.

Quick Facts:

  • Price Range: €12-18 for a meal combo
  • Average Wait Time: 5-15 minutes (peak hours)
  • Dietary Considerations: 100% vegan, gluten-free options available
  • Reservations: Not accepted, counter service only
  • Payment Methods: Cash, credit cards, mobile payments
  • Languages: Menu in French and English

The Signature Experience:

Located in the Marais district at 55 Rue des Archives, Hank Burger operates daily from 12:00-22:00. The restaurant's compact yet efficient space features minimal seating, focusing primarily on quick service and takeaway options. Their signature La Rochefort burger, topped with vegan cheese, caramelized onions, and house-made sauce, has become legendary in Paris's plant-based community. Insider tip: Order through their mobile app to skip the line and earn loyalty points for free menu items.

Atmosphere and Design:

The interior reflects modern minimalism with sustainable materials and clever use of space. While seating is limited, the restaurant's clever design includes standing counters and a small outdoor seating area perfect for people-watching in warm weather. The industrial-chic aesthetic creates an environment that appeals to younger diners and Instagram enthusiasts.

Pro Tips:

Visiting during off-peak hours (15:00-17:00) guarantees shorter wait times and better seating availability. The restaurant's busiest periods occur during traditional French lunch hours (12:00-14:00) and weekend evenings. Consider ordering extra sauce portions, as their house-made condiments are unique and not available for retail purchase. The "formule" (combo meal) offers the best value, including a burger, side, and drink at a reduced price compared to ordering items separately.

Practical Advice:

While Parisians typically take their time with meals, Hank Burger operates more in line with fast-casual dining concepts. The restaurant's central location makes it an ideal lunch stop while exploring the Marais, but be prepared for limited seating during peak hours. For groups larger than four, consider taking advantage of their efficient takeaway service and enjoying your meal in the nearby Place des Vosges, one of Paris's most beautiful historic squares.

L'Arpège: Michelin-Starred Vegetable Mastery

vegetable focused michelin cuisine

Nestled in Paris's 7th arrondissement, L'Arpège stands as a showcase of the extraordinary potential of vegetable-focused cuisine. Under the masterful guidance of Chef Alain Passard, this three-Michelin-starred restaurant revolutionized fine dining in 1986 by placing vegetables at the center of the culinary experience, proving that plant-based cooking could achieve the highest gastronomic honors.

The restaurant's fame stems from Passard's dramatic decision in 2001 to remove red meat from the menu and focus primarily on vegetables from his own biodynamic gardens. While L'Arpège isn't strictly vegetarian today, it remains a pioneer in elevated vegetable cuisine, with most dishes celebrating the pure flavors and textures of seasonal produce through innovative cooking techniques and artistic presentation.

Quick Facts:

  • Price Range: €175-490 for tasting menus
  • Reservation Required: Yes, typically 2-3 months in advance
  • Dress Code: Formal (jacket recommended)
  • Dietary Options: Vegetarian tasting menu available
  • Opening Hours: Monday-Friday, lunch and dinner
  • Languages: Staff speaks French and English
  • Payment: Major credit cards accepted

The Dining Experience

L'Arpège's signature "Gardener's Lunch" tasting menu showcases vegetables from Passard's three organic gardens outside Paris. Located at 84 Rue de Varenne, the intimate restaurant space features simple yet elegant décor, allowing the food to take center stage. An insider secret: request a kitchen tour during lunch service when the atmosphere is more relaxed, and you might catch Chef Passard demonstrating his famous vegetable cooking techniques.

The Menu

The vegetable-focused tasting menu changes daily based on garden harvests, but certain iconic dishes appear regularly, including the famous "L'Oeuf" – a hot-cold egg creation with cream, sherry vinegar, and spices. While à la carte options are available, the tasting menu provides the fullest expression of Passard's vegetable-forward vision. Lesser-known tip: Regular guests can request a tour of one of Passard's gardens during growing season.

Pro Tips

Book your reservation exactly two months in advance at midnight Paris time when new slots become available. For the best experience, opt for a lunch seating, which offers similar menus to dinner at a lower price point and with better natural lighting for appreciating the artistic presentation. Request a table near the kitchen to observe the careful preparation of each dish.

Practical Advice

While L'Arpège welcomes vegetarians and can accommodate vegans with advance notice, be prepared for some dishes to include eggs or dairy products in the vegetarian menu. The restaurant is a 10-minute walk from the Invalides metro station, and it's advisable to arrive 10-15 minutes early for your reservation. Remember to bring a credit card for the reservation and be prepared for a 3-4 hour dining experience during lunch or dinner service.