“We whistled la vie en Rose as we left” – Aux Crus de Bourgogne, Paris: Restaurant Review

Having dined in restaurants across the globe, I can confidently say that Aux Crus de Bourgogne isn’t merely a meal; it’s a journey back to the golden age of Parisian dining. Tucked away just off the iconic Rue Montorgueil (a personal favorite), this classic Parisian establishment, founded in 1932, is a time capsule for classic Burgundian cuisine. Over the years, it has drawn a diverse clientele of journalists, Resistance fighters, politicians, and celebrities, all captivated by its timeless charm.

Margot & Félix Dumant: Guardians of a Parisian Classic

Since 2019, Margot and Félix Dumant, the talented duo behind some of Paris’s most beloved bistros, have been the proud custodians of Aux Crus de Bourgogne. Known for revitalising timeless French eateries while keeping their soul intact, the Dumant siblings have seamlessly integrated their vision into this historic institution. Their other ventures, such as Les Marches in the 16th arrondissement and Aux Bons Crus in the 11th, showcase their signature blend of old-world charm and modern-day appeal  .

At Aux Crus de Bourgogne, they’ve preserved the bistro’s authentic 1900s decor—mirrored walls, brass fittings, and red velvet benches—while introducing carefully curated, seasonal dishes that keep locals and visitors coming back. Their ability to balance tradition with modern touches has ensured that this Parisian gem remains a must-visit destination

Aux Crus de Bourgogne: A Culinary Time Capsule in the Heart of Paris

Recently, I had the pleasure of introducing esteemed guests from Taiwan & London to the joys of authentic French escargots and fine wine. As the shone down over Paris, we settled into our seats on the terrace, and the moment we stepped into the bistro, it felt like stepping into a timeless scene from a Parisian novel. The bustling cobbled streets where the classicly dressed wait staff perform their perfect ballet of service sings of history. The century-old decor, complete with mirrors, brass rails, zinc bar and lace curtains, transported us to a bygone era.

The Menu changes monthly as it has done for nearly a century, but the clientele are as timeless as the ghosts of famed french ministers that haunt its tables. Sat around us were both groups of wealthy visitors and Parisian locals as perfectly habille as the white table cloths and delicious bread and rilletes we offered on arrival.

We commenced our culinary adventure with a dozen colossal, impeccably cooked escargots and a shared oeuf mayonnaise, accompanied by a crisp Crémant de Bourgogne. As I initiated my companions into the art of escargot extraction, their faces radiated pure delight – a testament to the attentive service and the simple joy of savoring exceptional food in such a charming setting.

Watch our video of how to eat escargot on TikTok.

For our main courses, a symphony of flavors awaited: a vibrant steak tartare, a succulent entrecôte, velvety veal kidneys, and the pièce de résistance – pasta adorned with earthy morelle mushrooms. Each dish was a masterclass in freshness, flavor, and flawless execution, upholding the restaurant’s longstanding reputation for quality. The meal flowed seamlessly with a second bottle, this time a robust Burgundy red, enhancing the already exquisite tastes.

Though our appetites were satiated beyond dessert, the complimentary digestif that followed our coffee was a welcome touch. As we strolled up the street, humming “La Vie en Rose,” it was evident that Aux Crus de Bourgogne had not only satisfied our palates but also nourished our souls.

Why Parisians Love Dining at Aux Crus de Bourgogne

Aux Crus de Bourgogne stands as a culinary time capsule, treasured by Parisians for its authenticity and timeless charm. Locals flock here not only for the impeccable Burgundian cuisine but for the atmosphere—polished brass, dark wood panelling, and white linen-draped tables that make every meal feel like a step back in time.

As François-Régis Gaudry from L’Express so vividly describes: “Aux Crus de Bourgogne fait l’effet d’une fine tranche de nostalgie ripailleuse… C’est tout juste si le fantôme d’André Malraux ne fait pas partie du décor.” Gaudry recounts how André Malraux, a legendary figure in French culture, frequented the restaurant twice weekly for its coq au brouilly and lobster with mayonnaise, capturing the essence of what makes this place a true Parisian treasure.

Respected French food guides echo this sentiment. Le Fooding describes it as “a warm-hearted, boisterous bistro, where you can devour perfectly executed classics”, while Gault et Millau praises the “timeless charm” of this iconic bistro, recommending it for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Burgundian heritage in the heart of Paris.

Whether it’s Parisians returning for a slice of nostalgia or food lovers following the advice of France’s most respected critics, Aux Crus de Bourgogne continues to be a must-visit for those in search of classic French dining.

In conclusion, if your wanderings lead you near the Rue Montorgueil, make it a point to visit Aux Crus de Bourgogne. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary pilgrimage, where every bite brings history to life. Ready to experience it for yourself? Book your table and prepare for an enchanting voyage back in time, where classic French cuisine reigns supreme.

Indulge in the timeless allure of Aux Crus de Bourgogne and experience a taste of Parisian history that will linger long after the last bite. Join us on a food tour in Paris and we will be your guide for the day!

Chef Tris

Food Tour Guide

From the bustling streets of Paris to the quiet moments at home, my journey is one of passion, resilience, and a deep love for French cuisine. I’m a brit who moved to France with my Parents aged 16, trained as a chef in Paris Palace at 18 and have spent decades observing and eating like the French. Having spent some time as a tech recruiter my move last year to share my love of food as a local food tour guide in Paris has been a delicious turn of events, blending my professional skills with my personal story of renewal.