Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Emma Fajcz | Published: January 30, 2020
Adventurous eaters journeying to Paris often have a few famous dishes on their must-try lists: frogs’ legs, calf’s brains…and snails, also known as escargot. If you’re looking for a taste of this classic French dish, don’t miss these 4 spots for the best snails in Paris!
The traditional preparation of escargots à la bourguignonne sees the snails dressed in their shells and baked with an herbed garlic butter which forms the perfect sauce for a crusty French baguette. While the recipe originally hails from Burgundy, today, you’ll encounter it in nearly every bistro in Paris. Don’t miss these 5 essential bistros in Paris while you’re visiting!
1. L’Ami Louis
L’Ami Louis (Rue du Vertbois, 32) is an old-school Paris bistro that’s wildly divisive. Vanity Fair’s profile of L’Ami Louis showed how exclusive (and expensive) it can be, but for escargots, it’s hard to beat.
Here, a dozen massive snails are served in a rich butter sauce by bow-tied, aproned waiters that look as though they stepped out of the 1920s for a truly Parisian experience.
2. Le Café des Musées
Bistro Le Café des Musées deviates a bit from tradition by broiling its snails not in their shells but rather in button mushroom caps. This not only allows diners to pick the snails up whole, but also allows the mushroom cap to soak up all that extra garlic butter. No bread required!
3. L’Escargot Montorgueil
The aptly named L’Escargot Montorgueil has been serving snails on the Rue Montorgueil since the mid-19th century, and by now, they’ve got it down pat.
Here, not only can diners enjoy the traditional butter and garlic snail, but they can also dip into a variety of other sauces, including Roquefort, foie gras, truffle, and curry. Order a half-dozen of each for a crowd, or opt for a sampler platter to help you narrow down your favorite.
4. Chez Janou
Escargots are usually served as an appetizer, but at Provençal bistro Chez Janou, they’re elevated to a main course. Here, the snails are tossed with tagliatelle pasta, and the herbed, buttery sauce coats every last strand for a delicious main dish indeed.
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Best Snails in Paris FAQs
Where can you eat the best escargots in Paris?
Some of the best escargots in Paris are served at traditional French bistros and historic restaurants that specialize in classic cuisine. Look for spots known for Burgundy snails baked with garlic and parsley butter, which is the most traditional preparation.
What do escargots taste like?
Escargots have a mild, earthy flavor and a tender, slightly chewy texture. Most of the taste actually comes from the rich garlic, parsley, and butter sauce they’re cooked in, making them savory and aromatic rather than strong or “snail-like.”
Are escargots safe to eat?
Yes, escargots served in restaurants are completely safe to eat. They are specially farmed, properly cleaned, and thoroughly cooked before serving, following strict French food safety standards.
How do you eat escargots properly?
Escargots are typically served in a special dish with tongs and a small fork. Use the tongs to hold the shell steady, then pull the snail out with the fork. Don’t forget to soak up the delicious garlic butter with bread; it’s part of the experience.
Are escargots expensive in Paris?
Escargots are usually moderately priced and often sold in portions of six or twelve. Prices vary depending on the restaurant, but they’re generally considered an affordable way to try a classic French delicacy.
