Cave à Manger: 7 places to be for shared dining in Paris
Paris has always been a haven for gourmets and wine lovers. In recent years, a new type of wine bar has emerged and gained popularity: the cave à manger. These wine bars offer a unique combination of fine wines and high-quality culinary snacks.
The name “cave à manger” comes from the French words “cave” (cellar) and “à manger” (to eat), indicating that these places originally started as wine cellars that have now expanded into eateries. A wine bar where you can not only enjoy a carefully selected wine collection but also a variety of small dishes such as artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and other culinary small dishes that perfectly complement the wines. The atmosphere is usually informal and cozy, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed evening out.
In this article, I share some of my favorite cave à mangers in Paris. From charming, small establishments to trendy hotspots, each with its own unique ambiance and specialties.
L’avant Comptoir du Marché - 75006
L’Avant Comptoir du Marché is located in a small street just behind the Saint-Sulpice church. The restaurant is situated both inside and on an attractive terrace under the arcades of the Marché Saint-Germain. It’s the ideal place for a good glass of wine and tasty bites in a cozy and informal setting with high tables. The menu reflects the diversity of French cuisine with a modern twist, where products from both land and sea are transformed into small portions. L’Avant Comptoir du Marché, 14 Rue Lobineau, 75006 Paris.
Deviant - 75010
This cave à manger in the 10th arrondissement has established itself as one of the neighborhood’s most popular wine bars, attracting a stylish crowd of wine enthusiasts and foodies alike.
Deviant features two distinct areas. The first area boasts a bar with standing room around it, allowing you to watch the chefs behind the bar prepare exquisite small dishes. The second area offers tables and seating, where you can enjoy the same delicious dishes. Both areas feature music and are perfect for starting your evening. In front of these spaces is a narrow terrace, a popular spot for the fashion crowd of the 10th arrondissement to mingle and socialize. The lively atmosphere, combined with a mix of good wine and tasty snacks, makes it a must-visit destination. Deviant, 9 rue des Petites Écuries, 75010 Paris.
Lolo - 75009
If you are looking for a cozy place to enjoy good snacks and natural wines in Paris, then Lolo cave à manger is highly recommended. This small cave à manger has only a few spots and reservations are not possible. The atmosphere at Lolo is relaxed and informal, with music. There are no seats, only standing places.
If you prefer to sit, then Lolo bistrot, not far from Lolo cave à manger, is recommended. A lively restaurant with a wide range of small dishes to share, accompanied by a selection of natural wines. Whether you are alone or with a group, the bar overlooking the open kitchen is an ideal place to sit. In addition, there are several tables in the restaurant and the space is somewhat larger than the cave à manger. Lolo Cave à Manger, 12 Rue Châteaudun, 75009 Paris. Lolo Bistrot, 53 Rue du Faubourg Poissonnière, 75009 Paris
Arbela – 75010 / 75011 / BOULOGNE
Located at 49 Rue de l’Échiquier in Paris’s 10th arrondissement, Arbela is a cave à manger led by chef Juan Arbelaez. Arbelaez, who participated in Top Chef in 2012, has several restaurants in Paris. At Arbela, you can find a selection of Basque dishes in an informal and friendly setting. You’ll find high tables and stools, creating a relaxed atmosphere. The concept focuses on sharing small dishes, accompanied by a variety of wines. It is ideal for a casual evening with friends or a date, where you can enjoy various tapas and a good glass of wine. Arbela, 49 Rue de l’Échiquier, 75010 Paris & 64 Rue de Charonne, 75011 Paris & 3 Rue d’Aguesseau, 92100 Boulogne-Billancourt.
Terra bar à vin - 75003
Located in a quiet street in the vibrant Le Marais district, known for its abundance of shops and restaurants, you’ll find the wine bar Terra. Terra offers a unique culinary experience where you dine at a bar while watching the chefs prepare your meal. This establishment combines French-style teppanyaki with a curated selection of wines.
Teppanyaki is a Japanese cooking style where food is prepared on a large, flat iron plate called a “teppan.” The term “teppanyaki” comes from “teppan” (iron plate) and “yaki” (grill or broil). In teppanyaki, ingredients like meat, fish, seafood, and vegetables are cooked directly on the hot plate, often right in front of the guests, creating an interactive and visually appealing dining experience. The dishes are small and refined, perfect for sharing.
In addition to wine bar Terra, there are two other Terra restaurants on the same street: Terra Pizza and the hidden Terra Restaurant. Terra bar à vins, 63 Rue des Gravilliers, 75003 Paris.
Abstinence - 75015
Nestled in the 15th arrondissement of Paris, near the iconic Eiffel Tower and adjacent to the 7th arrondissement, Abstinence offers a delightful blend of culinary delights, an extensive wine list, and inventive cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere.
Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, Abstinence transforms into a vibrant vinyl bar, featuring eclectic music, exquisite cocktails, and a comprehensive wine selection. The ambiance is relaxed, making it the perfect spot for a cozy evening out. The wine list boasts around fifty carefully selected French wines, celebrated for their organic, biodynamic, or natural qualities. The menu is designed for sharing, offering a variety of small and more generous dishes. In addition, the restaurant features a charming terrace, perfect for enjoying a meal or drink for lunch or for dinner. Abstinence, 47 Avenue de la Motte-Picquet, 75015 Paris.
Augustin Marchand d'Vins - 75006
Nestled in a quiet street, just a stone’s throw from the bustling Rue du Buci in the 6th arrondissement, Augustin Marchand d’Vins offers a unique experience for wine enthusiasts. Under the guidance of Augustin, a connoisseur with a passion for wine, this venue boasts a carefully curated selection of wines.
The wine bar is intimate, with only a few tables, so reservations are highly recommended. The culinary offerings here are on par with the wines, emphasizing the importance of a perfect pairing. At Augustin, everything revolves around exceptional products such as truffles, organic vegetables from local farmers, and surprising flavorings that complement the wines perfectly. Augustin Marchand d’Vins, 26 Rue des Grands Augustins, 75006 Paris.
