Planning to feast on 24 December in the City of Light? Here’s how to find a magical Réveillon dinner—whether you want a cozy bistro, a glittering palace hotel, or a candlelit cruise on the Seine. Expect prix‑fixe menus, festive desserts, and plenty of sparkle. Book early, dress nicely, and bring your appetite. 🎄🍷
What to expect on 24 December
In France, the big celebration is the Réveillon on the evening of 24 December. Many restaurants offer a special multi‑course menu with seasonal dishes and a celebratory vibe. Expect staggered seatings (often 7:00–7:30 p.m. and 9:30–10:00 p.m.), a slower pace, and a dining room buzzing with families, couples, and well‑dressed friends.
City streets glow with lights, shop windows are theatrical, and churches host late services. Public transport usually runs, though service can thin out late at night. Taxis and ride‑hailing get busy after midnight—plan ahead. 🚕
Typical Réveillon flavors
Menus lean indulgent: oysters and prawns, foie gras or pâté en croûte, scallops with beurre blanc, truffled poultry or capon, beef tournedos, and rich sauces. Dessert often means bûche de Noël (a yule log) in flavors like chocolate, praline, or chestnut. Vegetarian diners can often request mushroom‑truffle risottos, pumpkin velouté, or festive vegetable wellingtons—just give notice.
Price range and value
On 24 December, most places switch to prix‑fixe. A neighborhood bistro might run €55–€85 per person; brasseries near landmarks might be €75–€120; Michelin‑level or palace hotels can range from €180 to €420+ with wine pairings. Champagne to start is common; expect a supplemental charge for premium seafood or caviar. 🥂
Where to dine: styles and neighborhoods
Classic bistros and brasseries
If you crave warm lighting, tiled floors, and mirrored walls, choose a Left Bank bistro around Saint‑Germain or the Latin Quarter. You’ll get heritage dishes, friendly service, and just enough ceremony to feel special without being stiff.
Refined gastronomy and palace hotels
For white‑tablecloth elegance, look around the Golden Triangle, Opéra, or near the grands boulevards. Think multiple amuse‑bouches, pristine seafood, expertly carved poultry, and a cheese trolley that could make you weep with joy. Expect stricter dress codes and longer, luxurious meals.
Seine dinner cruises
Glide past Notre‑Dame, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower while dining by candlelight. It’s a photogenic way to combine sightseeing with a festive menu. Choose early departures if you’re traveling with kids; late sailings feel more romantic. 🚢
Charming local picks
Montmartre, Canal Saint‑Martin, and the Marais offer smaller dining rooms with creative chefs and neighborhood energy. These spots can be great for couples or friends who want modern French plates and natural wines in a relaxed setting.
Family‑friendly options
Look for brasseries with roomy banquettes, kid‑friendly mains (roast chicken, steak‑frites, mashed potatoes), and desserts like profiteroles. Early seatings help beat bedtime meltdowns. Some venues provide highchairs—ask when you reserve. 👨👩👧👦
How to book like a pro
Reservation strategy
- Book 2–4 weeks ahead for bistros; 4–8 weeks for fine dining or cruises.
- Choose your seating: early for families and jet‑lagged travelers; late for lingering romance.
- Confirm the menu: ask for the Réveillon price, what’s included (Champagne? water? coffee?), and any vegetarian or gluten‑free alternatives.
- Provide a card if required: many places hold the table with a deposit; cancellations close to the date may be charged.
Dietary needs and language tips
When booking, mention dietary restrictions. Useful lines: “Je suis végétarien(ne)” (I’m vegetarian), “sans gluten,” “sans fruits de mer,” “allergique aux noix.” Parisians appreciate effort—simple French plus a smile works wonders. 😊
Timing and dress code
Arrive on time; kitchens run to a holiday rhythm. Dress smart‑casual at minimum; jackets or a festive dress won’t feel out of place. Pack a warm layer for the stroll home—nights are crisp.
Quick Facts
- Location: Paris, France
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Language: French (English widely understood in central areas)
- Typical dinner window: 7:00 p.m.–12:30 a.m.
- Average spend (per person): €75–€180 for mid‑range; higher for luxury
Sample festive evening plans
Cozy and classic (budget‑friendly)
Sunset stroll along the Seine → early bistro seating with a 3‑ or 4‑course menu → hot chocolate near Saint‑Germain → metro back to your hotel.
Romantic sparkle
Late‑afternoon visit to the covered passages → Champagne apéritif → refined dining near Opéra with scallops and truffles → taxi across the river for Eiffel Tower views.
Family fun
Carousel ride at Hôtel de Ville → early brasserie dinner (steak‑frites for the kids, oysters for adults) → warm crêpes and lights on Avenue Montaigne. 🎠
Cost breakdown (typical ranges)
| Experience | What’s included | Approx. cost per person |
|---|---|---|
| Neighborhood bistro menu | 3–4 courses, à la carte drinks | €55–€85 |
| Central brasserie menu | 3–5 courses, optional oyster platter | €75–€120 |
| Seine dinner cruise | Set menu, window seating supplements possible | €95–€180+ |
| Fine dining / palace hotel | Tasting menu, amuse‑bouches, petit fours | €180–€420+ |
| Wine pairing (optional) | 3–6 glasses | €35–€150 |
Note: Prices are indicative and can vary by year and venue.
Weather overview
Expect winter chill: roughly 3–8°C (37–46°F). It rarely snows, but evenings feel colder along the river. Pack a wool coat, scarf, and waterproof shoes. A compact umbrella is handy for drizzles. 🌧️
Getting around late
The metro and RER generally run until around 12:30 a.m., with night buses filling the gap afterward. If your dinner ends near midnight, budget time for transit or pre‑book a taxi. Keep a little cash for tips and contingencies.
Safety tips & local etiquette
- Mind your bag in crowded areas and on transport.
- Greet staff with “Bonsoir” when you enter; it sets a warm tone.
- Keep phones on silent; festive dinners feel special—lean into it.
- Service charge is included; small change or a few euros for excellent service is appreciated.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Waiting to book: popular places sell out by mid‑December.
- Assuming à la carte: expect a set menu on the night.
- Skipping the apéritif: a glass of Champagne or a kir sets the mood.
- Forgetting dietary notes: flag restrictions when reserving, not at the door.
- Cutting transport too close: plan your ride back, especially with kids.
Alternatives if everything is full
Try a festive lunch on 24 December, or a leisurely lunch on 25 December. Delicatessens and specialty food shops often sell takeaway foie gras, smoked salmon, salads, and a bûche de Noël—perfect for a picnic supper in your apartment with sparkling wine. 🥐🍾
Key takeaways for travelers
- Book early and confirm the set menu and seating time.
- Choose your vibe: cozy bistro, grand gastronomy, or river views.
- Dress up a little and plan your late‑night ride.
- Embrace tradition: oysters, scallops, truffles, and that all‑important yule log.
FAQs
What time do restaurants start serving dinner on 24 December in Paris?
Early seatings often begin around 7:00–7:30 p.m., with a second wave after 9:30 p.m. Fine‑dining rooms may run even later. Reserve a slot that suits your energy level and transport plans.
Are vegetarian or gluten‑free options available for a Réveillon menu in Paris?
Many kitchens can adapt the set menu with advance notice. Mention your needs when booking and again on arrival. Expect seasonal vegetable mains, risottos, or fish‑free courses if requested in time.
Do prices go up for dinner on the night of 24 December?
Yes. Most venues switch to a special prix‑fixe that’s higher than usual due to premium ingredients and added service. Budget from €75 per person for mid‑range and much more for luxury addresses.
Is it better to choose a bistro, a brasserie, a fine‑dining room, or a boat on the Seine?
It depends on your style and budget. Bistros feel intimate, brasseries are lively and central, fine‑dining is a once‑in‑a‑lifetime splurge, and cruises deliver postcard views. All can be wonderful on this date.
Will public transport run after my late seating on 24 December?
Usually yes, but with reduced frequency late at night. The metro winds down around half past midnight, with night buses and taxis afterward. If your meal finishes near midnight, plan your ride in advance.
Can I order à la carte instead of the set holiday menu?
Typically no on this evening. The kitchen focuses on a limited festive menu to maintain timing and quality. You can often choose between fish, meat, or vegetarian mains within that structure.
What should I wear for a festive dinner on 24 December in Paris?
Smart‑casual is safe almost everywhere; upscale rooms expect dressier outfits. A jacket, neat shoes, or a festive dress will blend right in. Comfort matters too—meals can last two to three hours.
How far in advance should I book a table for 24 December?
Two to four weeks is fine for many bistros, while high‑end dining, river cruises, and famous brasseries can require four to eight weeks. If you’re late, try lunch on the 24th or 25th.
Conclusion
Paris on 24 December is all about atmosphere—twinkling lights, generous plates, and time to savor. Pick the dining style that matches your mood, secure a reservation, and lean into French holiday traditions. With a little planning, your festive meal will be the highlight of your winter trip. Bon appétit! ✨
