15 Places to Eat Excellent Oysters in Paris

15 Places to Eat Excellent Oysters in Paris

Briny, salty and slightly sweet, oysters have been popular with international bon-vivants since the 17th century. And what better place to try some of the best oysters than in Paris, the culinary capital of the world?

Paris is known for serving up some exceptional culinary delicacies; from foie gras to frogs legs, and oysters to escargot. Oysters are in season, and in this article I’ve outlined 15 places where you can eat some excellent oysters in Paris. So get ready to eat your heart out in the city of light!

Some Helpful Tips for Enjoying Oysters in Paris:

If you’re an oyster connoisseur, you already know that freshness and quality make all the difference. But if you’re new to these seafood delights, here are some things you should know:

It’s All About Terroir

If you’re unfamiliar with the French notion of terroir, it’s time to incorporate this one into your foodie vocabulary. Terroir refers to the specific qualities and nuances in flavor that a specific place or environment brings to the food. It’s most commonly used in reference to wine or cheese, though terroir can be used to help describe any food, especially oysters.

Each variety of oyster has its own subtle nuance of flavor, ranging from sweet and mild to briny and metallic. All of this has to do with where they come from, and how they were matured. Typically, French oysters hail from the Brittany or Normandy regions, though you can find oysters from all over the world in Paris.

A restaurant serving oysters should always list the variety, as well as the region where they came from. Usually, the name of a specific producer or farm is also listed. Pay attention to this, and don’t be afraid to ask for advice on which ones to try!

Size Matters

Really! Oysters are categorized by the amount of meat inside (and of course type) according to a standardized measure. At most places, they offer a range from N°00-N°5. The smaller the number, the larger and meatier the oyster.

It’s also worth mentioning that larger oysters take longer to cultivate and mature, garnering higher prices. As well as earn some bigger accolades from oyster experts.

How to Serve Oysters

When you go to an oyster restaurant in Paris, oysters will be served the traditional way – raw and on the half shell. They will always be served on ice, and usually accompanied with lemon wedges. Some restaurants will also serve a sauce mignonette to accompany the oysters. Basically, the mignongette is a delicate sauce made with shallots, red wine vinegar and various seasonings.

At some places, you can buy the oysters in bulk, and the fishmonger will shuck them right in front of you. This is always an impressive aspect for first-timers.

Now that you know some of the basics, you’re ready to try some of the best oysters the city has to offer. So without further ado, here are 5 places to eat excellent oysters in Paris!

1. Huguette, Bistro de la Mer

If you’re in a need of a coastal reprise amidst the hustle and bustle of Paris, Huguette is your answer. Situated in the heart of Paris’ Saint-Germain neighborhood, Huguette serves up delightfully fresh seafood in a low key atmosphere. Reminiscent of a leisurely bistro by the seaside, this is one spot to enjoy excellent oysters in Paris.

One of my favorite aspects at Huguette is the extensive selection – and not just in oysters! Huguette offers pretty much any kind of seafood, from sea urchin to octopus to steamed mussels and lobster, they’ve got it. Oyster offerings aren’t scant either, with a dozen different kinds available, including Fine de Claire, Belon, and Utah Beach varieties.

And if you want to have a little seafood feast of your own at home, Huguette also sells their famous fare to go.

practical information:

huguette, bistro de la mer – 81 rue de seine 75006

metro: mabillon

open daily from 8:00-2:00

2. Le Dôme

Le Dôme has been around since 1898 and is widely regarded as a Parisian institution. Not only does le Dôme serve up some of the best seafood in the city, it also has quite the history. At the turn of the 20th century, the area around Montparnasse was still largely on the outskirts of Paris and was considerably less expensive than much of the city center.

The combination of uncharted territory and lower prices drew the Belle-Epoque’s infamous international intellectual figures in droves. Before it specialized in seafood, le Dôme was frequented by the likes of Ernest Hemingway, Simone de Beauvoir, and F. Scott Fitzgerald.

Nowadays, the restaurant still resembles much of its Belle-Epoque glory; complete with red velvet banquettes and gold accents. Their selection of seafood is just as top-notch and you can purchase the likes of lobster, sea urchins, scallops and of course, oysters either to dine in or take away.

If there’s one place in Paris where you can eat excellent oysters, the Dôme is it. At the fresh counter, you’ll choose from over a dozen varieties hailing from all over the world, including the rarer plates de Cancales.

practical information:

le dôme montparnasse – 108 boulevard montparnase 75014

metro: vavin

open daily 12:00-15:00 and 19:00-23:00

3. Langousta Passy

Where can you eat excellent oysters in Paris 16th? Langousta Passy is an oyster bar located just blocks from the Eiffel tower in the lively Passy area. The no-frills interior is minimalist chic, centered around fresh oysters and seafood delights on display.

Langousta offers a great selection of not only oysters, but nearly any kind of seafood you can imagine. Their oyster offerings tick all the boxes in terms of variety, quality and presentation. Oyster connoisseurs will appreciate the selection here as they have some harder to find varieties available, such as Saint Vaast.

Plus Langousta lets you decide whether to dine in and take advantage of their sumptuous wine pairings, or opt for an evening at home and order take out. They deliver too!

practical information:

langousta passy – 20 rue singer 75016

metro: passy

open weekdays 18:00-23:00

open weekends 11:30-14:30 and 18:00-23:00

4. Le Mary Celeste

On the hunt for some delicious oysters in le Marais? Look no further than le Mary Celeste. This swanky cadre is a neighborhood favorite, and it seems they’ve created the perfect combination. Part craft cocktail bar, part fine eatery/oyster bar, the menu is ever-changing, but you can rest assured the quality never wavers.

Pull up a chair at the semi-circular bar in the middle of the room and watch the experts shuck excellent oysters right in front of you. The selection of oysters here changes regularly, though Belon and Bouzigue varieties are usually on offer.

And you won’t want to miss their happy hour! Come in between 18:00 – 19:00 to enjoy oysters for just €1 a pop.

practical information:

le mary celeste – 1 rue commines 75003

metro: saint-sébastien-froissart

open monday through friday 18:00-2:00

weekends 12:00-2:00 nonstop

5. Opium, La Cabane

Tucked away between upscale art galleries in Paris’ 6th arrondissement, is laid back Opium, La Cabane. This spot is a true hidden gem when it comes to eating excellent oysters in Paris. Italian vibes emanate from the kitchen, and the seafood-centric  menu incorporates plenty of influences from France’s sunnier neighbor.

Indulge in their impressive selection of oysters (including Utah Beach and Pousse en Claire types) matched perfectly with a glass of crisp white. The wine pairings are exceptional here and elevate the experience without adding too much to the price tag.

If you’re in the mood for a more traditional Italian meal, however, you can find it here too. Tuscan charcuterie boards and caprese salads are also on offer, alongside a hard-to-beat homemade tiramisu for dessert.

practical information:

opium, la cabane – 44 rue dauphine 75006

Metro: Odeon

open daily 12:00-midnight

6. Huîtrerie Régis

The outstanding Marenne-Oleron oysters that Régis serves are available for immediate consumption in the dining rooms or for take-out. Although the smoked scallops are equally excellent, the oysters are the main attraction.

Among our top 15 restaurants in Paris and our favorite seafood restaurant is Huîtrerie Régis. There is also plenty of fresh bread and butter, excellent wines, a daily cheese selection, and desserts for the hungry.

Régis does not accept reservations, but when you leave your phone number, someone will call you as soon as a table becomes available. After that, you won’t feel the need to visit a physical restaurant to satisfy your craving for saltwater.

practical information:

3 Rue de Montfaucon, 75006 Paris, France

Metro: Mabillon

open mon-fri; 12-2:30 pm, 6:30-10:30 pm

Weekends: 12-10:30 pm

7.  Le Baron Rouge

For foodies who arrive at the Aligre market just as the vendors are packing up their products and who fear that they may soon go hungry, Le Baron Rouge is a lifeline. You may come here to eat and quench your desire for superb wine with high-quality regional vintages.

On Sundays, they also serve a platter of charcuterie with a good robust red wine, or oysters and an excellent Sancerre. The walls of this tiny room, which is devoted to the splendor of wine, are covered in bottles, and there are barrels stacked floor to ceiling.

Those knowledgeable locals bring their empty bottles here to fill them directly from the barrels, which is more affordable. A decent selection of bottles is also available for takeout.

practical information:

1 Rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris, France

Metro: Ledru-Rollin

open mon; 5-10 pm/Tue -fri; 10 am-2 pm, 5-10 pm

Weekends: Sat; 10 am-10 pm/Sun; 10 am-4 pm

8. L’Écailler du Bistrot

The nautical equivalent of Bistrot Paul Bert is L’Ecailler du Bistrot. Its DNA may be found in a rich family history that dates back five generations of oyster farmers on the Belon River, as well as in the company’s preference for premium goods.

The founder of L’Ecailler since 1998, Gwénalle Cadoret, has consistently stood out for the ideals of product respect and excellence. Flat oysters from Belon, black pearls, hollow oysters from Brittany, specials from Utah Beach, langoustines from Guilvinec, small boat sole, Turbot, Breton lobster, and of course, Blue Lobster with Kari Gosse served with homemade fries, an iconic recipe for 25 years, are all available throughout the year while respecting the seasons.

After admiring Lilibricole and you’re hungry, go here for dinner. Try a new dish from the French menu. Visitors can also enjoy expertly prepared fruitcake, lemon pie, and parfait at this restaurant. The wine list is extensive and can meet the needs of every customer.

practical information:

22 Rue Paul Bert, 75011 Paris, France

Metro: Gare du Nord

open tue-sat; 12-2:30 pm, 7:30-11 pm

9. Amelie Maison d’Huitres

Oyster lovers are welcome here to discover or revisit iconic and classic dishes by Maison Amélie in the Place de la Madeleine, including oyster ceviche, sprayed oyster, and smoked oyster.

The menu at the restaurant also offers the chance to try out novel flavors and delicacies like flame-cooked oysters with ginger, soy, and candied onions or even oysters with red berries vinegar, and lemon zests.

Even the most delicate foodies’ palates will be delighted by novel flavor combinations that are authentic and unique. Therefore, the Amélie restaurant blows fresh and salty air all over Paris, whether you go for a coffee on your own on the magnificent heated patio (ideal for winter) or a supper with friends or family! You can also bring your pet with you to the restaurant because it welcomes pets.

practical information:

26 Place de la Madeleine, Paris, FR, 75008

Metro: Gare de l’Est

open mon-sat;12 pm-2 pm

10. L’Îlot

L’Ilot is a little square off the popular rue Charlot in the Haut Marais. It definitely has the feel of a peaceful island. The restaurant itself is small, like a small beach hut in Brittany, with whitewashed floorboards, bar stools, and four or five tables inside.

The Breton sea breezes blow in this “marine counter.” In the summer, the sidewalk opens onto the terrace, while inside, well caulked, you can taste Isigny oysters, prawns, whelks, whole brown crab (14€), generous seafood platters (55 € for 2), but also a sublime truffle taramasalata, fresh sea urchins, sea bream ceviche (€9), grilled fish (€9.5), or wild fish soup (€6.5).

The mayonnaise is created from scratch, the butter is Bordier, and the wines are carefully chosen (Sancerre from Mellot, Côte de Py from Foillard). The islet comes up to its name; it’s fresh, inexpensive, welcoming, and delicious!

practical information:

4 Rue de la Corderie, 75003 Paris, France

Metro: Temple

open tue-thur; 7-10:30 pm/ fri-sat; 7-11 pm

11. Clamato

Inspired by the oyster bars of the East Coast of the United States, this Septime location takes its name from a popular cocktail in Quebec, a Bloody Mary with the addition of clam juice of course, you can taste one here!

With its modern decor and a small menu that prioritizes fish, seafood, and vegetables while drawing on international inspirations, the restaurant has all the makings of a bistronomy smash.

The components are carefully selected and processed as simply as possible before being presented in plates for sharing. Please keep in mind that bookings are not available: it’s first come, first served!

practical information:

80 Rue de Charonne, 75011 Paris, France

Metro: Charonne

open mon-fri; 12-2:30 pm, 7-10:30 pm

Weekends 12-10:30 pm

12. Le Stella

If you’re strolling down Avenue Victor Hugo in the 16th arrondissement, don’t miss the engine-red front of Le Stella. This classic Parisian brasserie is a hidden gem in the heart of the Porte Dauphine area.

Since the 1950s, the lovely eatery has been a favorite of residents, thanks to its elegant design and wonderful, private environment as well as its offerings. Le Stella features beautiful and traditional French dishes such as boeuf grille, sole meunière, and, of course, the house specialty, oysters of the day.

The food is delicious, the service is friendly, and the pricing is a little excessive, just as a genuine Parisian supper should be. It doesn’t get more Parisian than Le Stella; it’s definitely worth a try.

practical information:

133 Av. Victor Hugo, 75016 Paris, France

Metro: The Avenue Foch 

open mon-sun; 8 am-12 am

13.  Aux Prés

This tiny cafe on the 6th adds to our list because the dishes are a fantastic exhibition of France’s summer garden riches. The burrata appetizer is served with fresh cherry tomatoes and pistachio pesto, and the brunch items (yep, French toast and crepes) feature summer raspberries and strawberries.

The menu is fantastic not strictly French, but with world influences and French overtones. There are a lot of locals eating there. It appears to be a hangout for the affluent residents of the neighborhood. The “crispy sushi” starter and the sea bass main course are particularly enjoyable.

practical information:

27 Rue du Dragon, 75006 Paris, France

Metro: Pont Neuf

open mon-sun; 12-2:30 pm, 7-11 pm

14. Le comptoir du Relais

This famed Parisian bistro does not accept reservations, and there is often a huge line of foodies wanting to sample bistronomy at its best. Perhaps going off-hours in the middle of the week is the actual key to landing a seat here.

The patio has an interesting perspective of the Carrefour de l’Odeon and provides some great Paris people-watching to accompany your lunch. It’s not the quietest place, so I wouldn’t eat outside for a romantic date, but it’s a nice setting for a work lunch near Saint Germain.

Chef Yves Camdeborde, the creator of modern bistronomy, prepares substantial portions of classic French cuisine in the kitchen. Le Comptoir du Relais offers two different set menus, one for weekday lunch and one for weekends. Both menus are fairly large, with 10 starters, ten main courses, and ten desserts to choose from.

For beginnings, choose from oeuf mayonnaise, foie gras, or escargots, and for mains, choose from entrecôte de veau (veal rib steak), smoked oysters, pied de cochon (pig’s feet), or brandade de morue (whipped salt cod gratin). You will not be disappointed with any of the classic French dishes you choose.

practical information:

9 Carr de l’Odéon, 75006 Paris, France

Metro: St Michel

open mon-sun; 12-11 pm

15. L’Écume Saint-Honoré

L’écume Saint Honoré is a Parisian fish market that welcomes your purchases of fish, crustacés, and orders for the fruit of the sea plateaux. This fish market in Paris’s 1st arrondissement has all of the best sea products. Similarly to a fish bar, the fish market transforms into a restaurant where you can sample the products of your choice. The variety of oysters will please you, and they are really fresh.

practical information:

6 Rue du Marché Saint-Honoré, 75001 Paris, France

Metro: Tuileries

open tue and thur; 9:30 am-8 pm/Wed;  11 Am-8 pm/fri to Sat; 9:30 am-10 pm

Well, that just about finishes up my guide to 15 places to eat excellent oysters in Paris. I hope you’ve enjoyed this article and that it has been helpful to you. And if you haven’t tried oysters yet, this is the perfect opportunity.

See you soon in Paris and bon appétit!