On weekends in Paris do I need to make reservations for cheap restaurants?If so how far ahead of time?

Question

On weekends in Paris do I need to make reservations for cheap restaurants?If so how far ahead of time?

Answer 1

It couldn't hurt although, to be honest with you, I rarely bother to make dinner reservations and when I do, it is usually just a few hours before.

If you're there in the off season and especially if you eat at an unnaturally early hour (like before 9 PM) as most Americans do, this generally isn't that much of a problem.

The fact is that there are so many places to eat in Paris that if you get turned away from one place there is usally another right next door or across the street.

Answer 2

Normally, there is no need to make a reservation for a restaurant in Paris.  The only ones where they are mandatory are the ones with a Michelin star rating, and you have to do those months in advance.

The weekend (Fri, Sat) its not a horrible idea to make a reservation.  But, again, if a restaurant is full when you walk by, there is always another one of equal or better quality just around the corner.

Answer 3

Now it's beginning to get a bit less busy in Paris with Fall.

You should be able to get a table in any "standard" restaurant if you call in the morning... or just call 1 day before to make sure.

If you are refused, try insisting, you have been recommended this restaurant, you are here for a short time, ...

Bon appét*t! ;)

Answer 4

No, you usually don't.