Brasserie Gallopin, the historic restaurant with traditional French dishes

Brasserie Gallopin is a historic address in Paris's 2nd arrondissement. Situated opposite the Palais Brogniart, the Brasserie Gallopin, opened in 1876 by Gustave Gallopin, has become a veritable institution for lovers of traditional bourgeois cuisine. The Galloppin was also one of the capital's first cocktail bars.

Inside, elegant Cuban mahogany woodwork, the work of London cabinetmakers, adorns the walls of the Galopin brasserie. They are magnificently embellished with a decorative band, painted with motifs of horns of plenty, garlands, fruit, and cartouches displaying the owner's initials "GG". Large mirrors are majestically framed by double pilasters surmounted by Ionic capitals. The decor is completed by tulip-shaped lamps and copper millinery, giving the space a distinctive charm. This decoration, typical of the Anglo-Saxon era of the 19th century, is probably one of the best preserved in Paris.

In 1900, for the Universal Exhibition, the Galopin brasserie also inaugurated a vast room adorned with an impressive glass roof in the pure Art Nouveau style, considered one of the most remarkable examples of this artistic style in Paris. Note that the glass roof opens onto the courtyard to take advantage of fine weather.

On site, you'll discover a fine brasserie menu that pays tribute to the classics of French gastronomy. Mimosa eggs with Avruga caviar, foie gras, snails and pâté en croûte are all on the menu.

As for the main course, the restaurant puts on a show with dishes flambéed before our very eyes. For example, gambas flambéed with Absinthe, or French fillet of beef with pepper sauce, made before our very eyes.

A well-spiced sauce, prawns cooked to perfection and a well-made Chateaubriand beurre maître d'hôtel, we're in for a treat. But you're free to choose duck with figs or suckling pig with apples.

To round off the meal, don't miss the famous crêpes Suzette, also flambéed before our very eyes. Unless, of course, you fancy a Norwegian omelette.

In short, if you like your classics well done, in a typical Parisian restaurant, you've come to the right place.

• To be read
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• Tips for the week of December 23 - 29, 2024 in Paris: free or cheap outings

Please note that it's been over 4 years since our last visit, so the place and experience may have changed.