Girafe (Paris 16): objective review of the experience, cuisine, and value for money

What it is, simply

Girafe is a restaurant specializing in fish, shellfish, and crustaceans, located in the Palais de Chaillot / Cité de l'Architecture, right next to the Trocadéro, with a terrace facing the Eiffel Tower. The place is also known for its Art Deco / 1930s decor designed by Joseph Dirand, and its positioning as an "iconic Parisian address" as much for its view as for its cuisine.

The atmosphere and setting

This is clearly one of its strong points: a large, highly sought-after terrace and a cozy interior (marble, cream tones, 1930s style).
Please note: the experience depends greatly on the weather and access to the terrace (the terrace may be closed/restricted in case of rain), which changes the "Eiffel Tower view" promise.

Cooking: what you really eat

The menu is consistent: seafood cuisine with platters of raw seafood(such as ceviche/sashimi, depending on availability) and fish prepared in a variety of ways.
The menu often features "stars of the sea" (lobster, sole, turbot, sea bass, tuna, etc.) and dishes that change with the catch of the day.
For those who don't like fish, there are usually options such as pepper steak or beef tenderloin (depending on the menu).

Price: what to expect

Girafe is positioned in a high-end segment, in line with its location and reputation. As a guide, prices often fall within the following ranges:

• Admission: ~$19–45
• Main courses: ~$25–53
• Desserts: ~$13–17
• Cocktails: ~$15–17

Seafood platters are a significant indicator: some formats are advertised starting at around €95 (depending on composition and size).

Conclusion regarding the budget: you pay for the product + the location. If the main objective is a "strictly gastronomic" restaurant, there are sometimes more "technical" options in Paris for a comparable budget; if the objective is the view + atmosphere + seafood, Girafe delivers on its promise.

Service and fluidity: the most variable factor

Girafe prides itself on providing precise and attentive service, and many customers describe it as such. In practice, as is often the case with highly sought-after establishments, the experience can vary depending on how busy it is (weekday lunch vs. evening/tourist season/events). Feedback is therefore more mixed than at a smaller, more intimate restaurant.

Who is it a good choice for?

• Wow lunch for the terrace and the view (when the weather cooperates)
• Inviting visitors (foreign friends, family): guaranteed Paris effect
• Business meetings/dinners if you are looking for a premium setting and a signature address in the Trocadéro area (with one caveat: the busier it is, the less intimate it feels).

Practical tips for optimizing the experience

• Book in advance: this is a very popular place.
• If your priority is the view: ask for a table on the upper terrace and keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable.
• For a more peaceful experience: opt for lunch during the week rather than an evening meal at the weekend / "photo spot" time slot.

‍