If you’re visiting the Louvre or taking a walk around the 7th arrondissement in Paris and looking for a classic Parisian bistro, you’ve probably come across Les Antiquaires. It’s located on Rue du Bac, just a short walk across the river from the Louvre Museum.
Walking in, the place definitely has that traditional Parisian look, vintage decor, warm wooden accents, and cute life-sized teddy bear mascots at some of the tables. However, the biggest drawback right away is the seating. The tables and chairs are packed extremely close together with other guests, making it feel very tight and not really comfortable to sit and relax.Today, we’re trying out a full spread of main courses and drinks to answer two main questions: Is it expensive? And how does the food actually taste? Let’s dive into the meal.
THE MAINS: PLATING, QUALITY, & HONEST TASTE TEST
Instead of ordering small starters or appetizers, we went straight for 3 full main dishes and on a tiny, tight table like this, the spread was completely packed!
First up is the Filet de Bœuf (Beef Tenderloin) for €38.00. It comes topped with a velvety cream sauce paired with a classic potato dauphinois gratin. The steak is cooked nicely, tender, and deeply savory.
Next, we have the Filet de Bar (Pan-Seared Sea Bass) for €26.00. It’s beautifully plated with artichoke hearts, roasted vegetables, olives, and fresh herbs. The fish skin is not so crispy but the meat inside stays soft and flaky. Finally, we tried the Poulpe Plancha (Grilled Octopus) for €28.00, served over a sauce with grilled zucchini and fennel.
Visually it looks great, but honestly, the flavour wasn't really to my liking and could definitely be better. It didn't hit the mark for me compared to the other dishes. They also bring a basket of French baguette bread to go with the meal!
DRINKS & REFRESHMENTS
To drink, we grabbed a large 1-Liter bottle of sparkling mineral water—Perrier Fine Bulles for €9.00, served cold with fresh lemon slices.
Browsing through their drink menu, they have a solid selection of everything from fresh juices like orange, carrot, apple, and ginger to classic soft drinks, ice tea, coffees, and cocktails. They also offer an extensive champagne and French wine list if you're looking to pair your meal with a glass.
THE BILL BREAKDOWN & VALUE ANALYSIS
Now let's talk numbers—is it expensive?
Here is the exact receipt breakdown:
- 1 x Filet de Bœuf: €38.00
- 1 x Poulpe Plancha: €28.00
- 1 x Filet de Bar: €26.00
- 1 x 1L Perrier Sparkling Water: €9.00
Total: €101.00 for two peoples.
Considering this is prime real estate right in central Paris near top tourist spots like the Louvre and Musée d'Orsay, €101 for three main dishes plus drinks is typical for the area, but given the tight seating and mixed food opinions, it's something to keep in mind.
FINAL VERDICT & RATING
Is it worth it?
- Seating & Comfort: Very tight and cramped—tables and chairs are seated way too close to other guests, making it less comfortable than you'd hope.
- Food Quality: Hit and miss—the steak and fish were good, but the grilled octopus flavor fell short of my expectations and could definitely improve.
- Value & Atmosphere: Classic Parisian aesthetic near the Louvre, but expect a crowded tourist spot feel.
Les Antiquaires (located at 13 Rue du Bac in the 7th arrondissement) occupies a distinct middle ground. It is not a total tourist trap, but it is certainly tourist-adjacent.
Why it is NOT a tourist trap: Decent Quality Execution: Unlike actual tourist traps (which microwave pre-made meals and charge exorbitant prices for dismal food), Les Antiquaries generally receives solid marks for its food. The kitchen uses respectable ingredients, and staples like their fries, tartare, and confit are often praised as well-executed, classic bistro fare. Local Patronage: Locals (neighbourhood residents, office workers, and shoppers from the chic 7th arrondissement) do frequent it, especially for a casual glass of wine, coffee, or a quick lunch on the terrace. The Vibe: It delivers a quintessential, bustling Parisian café-bistro atmosphere. The service can occasionally lean brisk or transactional (typical of busy Parisian spots), but it generally functions as a legitimate, functioning neighbourhood establishment rather than a predatory trap.
The Verdict: If you are looking for an ultra-secret, avant-garde culinary temple or hyper-authentic local hideaway, this isn't it. However, if you want a reliable, classic Parisian bistro experience with good atmosphere right in the heart of the 7th—and you stick to traditional bistro mainstays—you will likely have a very pleasant meal here, provided you accept that you'll be paying standard upscale-neighbourhood Parisian prices.
I rated 7 out of 10.• The "Good, Not Great" Zone: Because 8, 9, and 10 are reserved for truly love or recommend, a 7/10 gets pushed down to mean "it works, it's fine”. Let me know in the comments if you’d still check this spot out when visiting Paris. Good bye my friends! Stay safe, and take care!
