Where to Eat Traditional Shakshouka in Paris

Where to Eat Traditional Shakshouka in Paris

Shakshouka originated somewhere in the Middle East, the exact location remaining under debate amongst a few regions who would all like to claim the dish as their own.

Although quite basic in nature, this is a fragrant dish traditionally served as a breakfast or brunch meal. Multiple eggs are poached in a pan, surrounded by a tomato and bell pepper based sauce & a few key spices.

by Toa Heftiba – Unsplash

Shakshouka is largely up to interpretation, and chefs around the world create interesting renditions using different vegetables & spices. A green shakshouka is now commonly found around Europe, but it’s not always well executed.

Here’s where you’ll find some worthwhile renditions while in the French capital:

46 & 3rd in Paris

Good shakshouka is all about balance; a well balanced sauce combining with properly poached eggs for a fusion of flavors only once a bite is taken. I believe that 46 and 3rd have mastered this balancing act.

Possibly the best shakshouka I’ve had in my life, 46 and 3rd is a must-visit restaurant for anyone who considers themselves a “foodie”. It’s a brunch, lunch and dinner spot with a cafe-style menu to knock your socks off.

46 & 3rd in Paris – by 46 & 3rd – Uploaded by them

If you can dine here with a friend I would highly recommend you do so. You’ll want to order the shakshouka to share, along with a stack of their flapjacks and a side of avocado toast.

Keep a close eye on all of the dishes going out to the tables around you and you’ll understand what I mean about the impressive food. 

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday — 10pm to 4pm // 7pm to 11:30pm

ADDRESS: 46 Rue de Turbigo, 75003 Paris, France

Metro STATION: Temple

Café Méricourt in Paris

The shakshouka at Café Méricourt is one that you’ll want to eat by yourself. The portion is just right for one person, sharing will only cause agony.

They have both a red and a green version; both are incredible but I do love the traditional red. Cheese lovers will prefer the green as it is topped with a generous heap of feta cheese! They both come with fresh baked ciabatta and an olive oil based side sauce.

Café Méricourt in Paris – by Café Méricourt – Uploaded by them

Note that there is a line out of the door to get into Café Méricourt even after 10am. I would come around 11:30, if you don’t mind eating late. This means you’ll avoid the chaos and probably be able to sit as you arrive.

Compliments to the chef, Café Méricourt!

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday — 9am to 5pm

ADDRESS: 22 Rue de la Folie Méricourt, 75011 Paris, France

Metro STATION: Saint-Ambroise

Tavline in Paris

Tavline, also known as the hidden gem of le Marais, does a phenomenal shakshouka, also topped with heaps of feta.

This shakshouka is probably the most authentic and traditional rendition you’ll find anywhere in Paris, as the owners of Tavline are Israeli. Instead of serving the dish as a brunch meal, it’s served as lunch and/or dinner, just as it would be in the Middle East.

Tavline in Paris – by Tavline – Sourced from their Facebook

This giant serving of the dish is easy to share, giving you chance to taste some of the other menu items that stay true to Israeli cuisine. It’s not cheap to eat here, but it is very worth it.

Tavline is usually booked out, so a reservation is essential for dinner dining.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday — 12pm to 10pm

ADDRESS: 25 Rue du Roi de Sicile, 75004 Paris, France

Metro STATION: Saint-Paul

Café Oberkampf in Paris

Cafe Oberkampf is an institution to the district of Oberkampf in Paris. It was the first cafe in the area, before this was ever considered a worthwhile place to settle. As an arts district, Oberkampf has always been relatively affordable in cost of living, making it a hub for good cafes and street food.

The shakshouka at Cafe O might not be the most tractional in town, but it is both delicious and generous in portion.

Café Oberkampf in Paris – by Café Oberkampf – Uploaded by them

It’s served with fresh bread and a few sides to add as dipping sauces. Those who detest the taste of coriander should request the dish be made free of this herb.

There is free WiFi available, as well as work power stations. Bring your laptop if you need a cool spot to get some admin done during the day.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday — 8am to 5pm

ADDRESS: 3 Rue Neuve Popincourt, 75011 Paris, France

Metro STATION: Rue Saint-Maur

IMA CANTINE in Paris

This canteen is on the very southern tip of the Canal Saint Martin. You’ve likely walked right by it a few times, unknowing of the culinary experience going on insides.

IMA does traditional red shakshouka. It too involves a lot of coriander, so again, if this is not your thing then be sure to request it be made without.

IMA CANTINE in Paris – by IMA CANTINE – Sourced from their Facebook

Their green shakshouka is parsley and basil based. This is one of the few spots where I’ll opt for the green over the red, every time. There is just something about it that is so satisfying.

The bread served with the dishes is Arabic flat bread. It’s basic, but works with the flavors overall. I also had them add chickpeas to mine, which was a really nice take on the traditional version — just a thought.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday — 8am to 10:30pm

ADDRESS: 39 Quai de Valmy, 75010 Paris, France

Metro STATION: République

If you have some time between your shakshouka runs to explore some of the Parisian culture and history, opt in on a free guided walking tour through the neighborhood that interest you most.