A distinctive neighborhood in the northeast corner of Paris, Belleville is a perfect, non-touristy destination for foodies.
Until 1860, Belleville was actually an independent, working-class village, home to farmers and winemakers. Today, following waves of immigration in the 20th century, the hilltop district has become one of Paris’ most artistically vibrant and ethnically diverse areas.
Known for its cabarets, street art, lively galleries, and unpretentious restaurants, it’s a great, off-the-beaten-track quartier to discover and fall in love with.
Whether you’re in the mood to explore the streets, unwind in a wine bar, or eat brunch at a hip cultural center, Belleville has it all! Check out our top pick for the best Belleville restaurants.
1. WenZhou
Since 1992, Chinese residents in Belleville have been flocking to this institution for a taste of home. Named after the town where many of the neighborhood’s residents have their roots, WenZhou serves delicious, authentic specialties at really affordable prices.
Don’t miss the sautéed eggplants, the lion’s heads pork meatballs, and, for the most adventurous, the jellyfish salad!
2. La Cave de Belleville
Opened by three friends from Belleville, this inviting little gem is what the French call a cave-à-manger: both a wine bar and a gourmet delicatessen.
Every day of the week, newcomers and regulars of La Cave de Belleville can choose from mouthwatering cheese boards, cold-cuts, desserts and, of course, a wide selection of French wines, including organic and biodynamic options.
3. Floréal Belleville
Created by a brother and sister who grew up in the neighborhood,Floréal Belleville is a bar, restaurant and cultural center all at once!
After checking out work by emerging local artists, the cozy dining area is sure to charm you with its cool Art Deco feel and vintage furniture. Food is another great reason to visit Floréal: here, chefs change monthly, dishes are always seasonal and they even do a tasty brunch on weekends!
4. Les 4 Frères
Another great example of Belleville’s cultural diversity, Les 4 Frères was, as its name suggests, founded by four brothers from northern Algeria. Their friendly, no-frills restaurant serves typical dishes, including finger-licking skewers, grilled on the spot.
The true star of the place, however, is the homemade couscous: hand-rolled and so fluffy we guarantee it will have you coming back for more!
5. Raviolis Nord-Est
A tiny joint, tucked away on a quiet street, Raviolis Nord-Est is a dumpling lover’s paradise!
This popular eatery is run by a husband and wife team who have made it their mission to offer fresh, homemade jiaozi, or dumplings. Choose from chicken, beef, pork or veggie options, to have either steamed or pan-fried.
Address: 11 Rue Civiale
6. Mensae
Located on the Belleville Hill, near the Buttes-Chaumont Park, Mensae is an inviting bistro serving contemporary French food. Portions are generous, dishes are flavorful and the desserts, in particular, are incredible. An all-around winner!
7. Dong Huong
For some of the best Vietnamese food in Paris, be sure to stop by this typical spot to try some of their tastiest specialties. Dishes such as the fried spring rolls, pho (satay soup), and the irresistible grilled chicken with lemongrass make Dong Huong one of our favorite hangouts in Belleville.
Dông Huong ??je vais la depuis l’ouverture il y a bientôt 40 ans
It’s a classic for sure!
Le Desnoyez is no longer there as of September 21, 2019.
Good catch—thanks for letting us know! We’ll update the post.
I like that you said that you can find good restaurants with homemade couscous and good flavor. I’m going to check with my wife about going out to eat on the weekend. I’m going to look online for a nice place to go to.
Thanks for reading, Ron! If you’re looking for a place to have a nice meal with your wife, check out one of these romantic restaurants in Paris: https://devourparisfoodtours.com/blog/romantic-restaurants-paris/
Enjoy!
I love food, I wish i go out there at once, thanks for sharing this article with us it would be a pleasure for us
Thanks for reading, Shivam!