There’s nothing that says cozy winter in Paris like sharing a pot of gooey, cheese fondue or raclette with your friends. Fondue one of the city’s tastiest winter traditions.
Fondue may have originated in Switzerland, but the French have put their own spin on this classic comfort food. With hundreds of fondues restaurants dotting the streets of Paris, how would we ever decide where to indulge? Luckily, I’ve done research to discover the top spots for savoring the best fondue in Paris.
I’ll share my favorite Parisian fondue restaurants, along with tips on what to order and how to find raclette heaven in one of the world’s most romantic cities. Whether you’re seeking the perfect date night experience or just want a cozy, delightful meal with friends, be sure to check out these top choices for fondue and raclette dining in Paris.
Dip your bread into ooey, gooey cheese and enjoy!
Fondue Winter Traditions
Fondue is a classic Swiss dish that involves dipping bread, vegetables, and other foods into a communal pot of melted cheese or chocolate. The cheese version, also known as fondue au fromage, typically uses Emmental and Gruyère cheeses which are melted together with white wine and seasoning. This creates a smooth, creamy dip.
Fondue keeps warm throughout the meal thanks to a small lit fire beneath the pot of cheese. Pieces of bread speared on long fondue forks are dipped into the cheese pot for each bite.
Fondue is considered a fun, interactive dish meant for sharing at social gatherings. The communal nature of dipping bread or fruit into the central pot makes it perfect for conversation and connection. It originated in the Swiss Alps where cheese and chocolate were in abundance.
Raclette Winter Fun
Raclette is a popular Swiss dish that originated in parts of Switzerland near France. It involves heating a half wheel of a cheese called Raclette cheese under high heat until the top layer melts and bubbles. The melted cheese is then scraped off onto’ plates and eaten along with small firm potatoes called grelots, pickles, cured meats, and breads.
Raclette cheese is made from cow’s milk and is semi-hard, with a firm texture when cold but smooth and stringy when melted. Traditionally, the cheese was melted in front of an open wood fire in Swiss chalets, but today small table-top electric raclette grills are commonly used.
The dish is meant to be social, with the melted Raclette cheese scraped directly onto the plates of people around the table. While traditional Raclette uses a specific Swiss cheese, other melty cheeses are common.
Raclette is the most comforting, hearty dish that is excellent for social events during the cold winter months. The heat of the melted cheese and potatoes makes it warming and satisfying!
Fondue and Raclette Restaurants in Paris
Today, fondue remains popular not just in Switzerland but also in France, where specialized fondue restaurants can be found. The leisurely, cozy dining experience of savoring fondue makes it a cherished winter tradition.
Pain Vin Fromages is a cozy restaurant located in the heart of Paris, known for the best Parisian fondue and raclette options accompanied by an extensive selection of wines. It is a popular choice for both locals and tourists seeking a classic French fondue experience.
3 Rue Geoffroy l’Angevin, 75004 Paris, France
Le Chalet Savoyard is a renowned establishment in Paris, offering traditional Savoyard cuisine, including rich fondues and raclettes, in a chalet-style setting. Its rustic interiors and a wide range of cheese dishes provide an authentic alpine dining experience.
58 Rue de Charonne, 75011 Paris, France
Les Marmottes is a warm and intimate eatery in Paris, offering a curated menu of fondue and raclette dishes. The restaurant takes pride in using high-quality ingredients, ensuring a flavorful and authentic Savoyard experience for its patrons.
26 Rue de la Grande Truanderie, 75001 Paris, France
Saveurs de Savoie is a Parisian restaurant known for bringing the flavors of the Savoie region to the city. It offers specialty fondue and raclette dishes, crafted using traditional recipes and fresh ingredients, offering a genuine taste of the alpine region in a comfortable setting.
83 Rue Mouffetard, 75005 Paris, France
Le Vieux Bistrot is a charming establishment situated in Paris, offering a nostalgic ambiance paired with a selection of fondue and raclette dishes. It serves as a retreat for those seeking a blend of traditional cuisine with a hint of modernity, making for a pleasant dining experience.
54 Rue Mouffetard, 75005 Paris, France
