Francette — Restaurant in Paris

Let me start off that I never leave bad reviews - I just ignore poor service. However today I will make an exception.

I made my reservation as soon as my date open for my travel to Paris. I requested outdoor seating for the obvious reason when I booked. When we arrived we were sat on a high top (one of two high tops) outside under a massive umbrella. I asked if we can be moved to an area where there where 4 available high tops and not under an umbrella… basically with the view to the Eiffel Tower and was told that they did not use that area which I understood. They sat another couple in the high top next to us who also asked about the covered view and they were told the same. I think it’s safe to say that anyone who makes dinner reservations at 9:30 pm outside is for the views and having an umbrella open makes zero sense. I asked our waitress if the umbrella can be closed; she said she would ask. We were given two glasses but no water - I ended up having to ask for our water later. I ordered the signature menu along with two more sides, and two alcoholic beverages for me and soda for my son. Our drinks came, our appetizers came - no response on closing the umbrella. One of our appetizers included prosciutto that when I tried cutting we had to hold on to the table because it shook everywhere and our drinks could spill. Again no complaint, we resolved. When our appetizer dishes were removed I had placed my utensils on the empty plate; the waitress literally took them off the plate and put them on the table. Basically those are the utensils for appetizer and dinner. Not what I’m used to but I let it be. Finally a couple in a table not under the umbrella left and I asked our waitress if we can be moved and she said yes and to give her a few and she would clean the table. I was happy and I grateful to her, thanking her. Now I understand in their eyes I may be that annoying customer however I wasn’t rude nor mean I simply asked, I was annoyed and the waitress was annoyed but we were respectful and she helped me out and of course I planned to compensate her with a gratuity.

HOWEVER… this is where things shifted and I do not tolerate. Once I was at the new table the waiters/waitresses decided to ignore us. they did not come by to see if we needed more water, another drink, anything else, they even forgot to bring me one of our appetizers. I looked around and they would see us but we were ignored. A significant time later we were brought the dessert which looked tampered with. We had seen others next to us get their mousse and looked nothing like ours. Inclusively my son said that they were bringing it and the waitress stopped right behind me looked at me, turned back and a few minutes later came back with it.

All of a sudden it got very windy and people with small children moved themselves out from under the umbrella because it was blowing all over the place. The waiters ran out and guess what! They closed the darn umbrella!!!!! The people still under pretty much said “finally” and praised the view. We continued to sit there not one waiter came by yet again. Luckily all our food had been brought out before the turn of events with the exception of one of my drinks and the questionable mousse. At the end of the day I got what I requested and what I wanted which was dinner outside with the views of the Eiffel Tower. The food was okay…just okay. The burgonoise sauce looked like dried grease. Nonetheless, when dealing with customers you will get all sorts of personalities. If your team chooses to retaliate with poor service and tampering with food that says a lot about you and perhaps the people you hire to represent you. That definitely cost the waiter a 25% tip even though I know it’s not customary in Paris but that’s what I am used to giving for good service.

I didn’t choose this place for the culinary when this city has Michelin rated restaurants! I chose it for the views! And I got it! It was not my loss! Train your staff better. I was willing to see past it all until the games and gross...

A Hidden Culinary Gem by the Seine – Francette Delivers an Unforgettable Experience! Location: Francette, 1 Port de Suffren, 75007 Paris, France Rating: 5/5

About Francette – A Floating Dining Experience Like No Other

Nestled beneath the Eiffel Tower and gently floating on the Seine, Francette is more than just a restaurant—it’s an experience. This chic, multi-level barge offers a unique blend of gourmet dining, wine tasting, and rooftop lounging, all with spectacular views of Paris. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, Francette is an absolute must-visit.

Ambience, Cleanliness & Accessibility

From the moment you step onboard, the ambiance is sophisticated yet relaxed. Warm lighting, tasteful decor, and river views from almost every corner create a romantic and cozy atmosphere. Each level offers a different vibe:

Le Pont (rooftop) is breezy and casual—perfect for cocktails and sunsets.

Francette Bistro (middle deck) offers an elegant dining room with panoramic windows.

The Cave (lower deck) is a wine bar with a more intimate, cellar-like setting.

The entire boat is spotlessly clean, and the design cleverly combines luxury with comfort. Accessibility is well thought out, with a ramp for wheelchairs and attentive staff ready to assist.

Quality of Food & Drinks

The food is nothing short of exceptional. The menu features refined French cuisine with a modern twist, using fresh, local ingredients. The seafood platter was beautifully presented and full of flavor, while the duck confit was tender and rich.

Their wine list is carefully curated, and sommeliers are happy to offer pairings based on your preferences. Whether you’re enjoying a full-course meal or just sipping a glass of rosé on the deck, quality is consistently top-notch.

Staff Behavior & Professionalism

The service was outstanding. Staff members were not only friendly and welcoming but also highly professional and knowledgeable. From the host who greeted us with a smile to the waiters who explained the dishes in detail, everyone made us feel special.

Despite the busy evening crowd, the staff remained attentive and responsive throughout. That level of hospitality really elevated the whole experience.

Pricing & Value for Money

Given its location, ambiance, and quality of service, Francette is fairly priced. It’s not the cheapest place to dine in Paris, but it delivers great value. You’re paying for more than just a meal—you’re investing in an experience. Perfect for special occasions, date nights, or simply treating yourself.

Standout Features

Floating restaurant with Eiffel Tower views

Three unique decks with different themes

Live DJ or soft background music depending on the time

Seasonal events and wine-tasting evenings

Instagram-worthy photo spots at every corner

Suggestions for Improvement

Online booking could be smoother. The website interface might benefit from a little more user-friendliness.

A few more vegetarian options would be appreciated for broader appeal.

Final Verdict

Francette is a hidden gem in the heart of Paris that beautifully combines fine dining, enchanting views, and warm hospitality. Whether you're looking to enjoy a romantic evening, celebrate with friends, or indulge in French cuisine with a modern flair, Francette won’t disappoint.

Highly recommended—5 stars...

The food was lovely and great value. The smoked duck and crispy chicken were our favourites. Don’t bother with the guacamole, the portion is very small and not really very seasoned. We had a great spot to view the Eiffel Tower as it lit up, which we were grateful for.

The service however, was not good. The initial hostess was fine and took us to our table. But then we were waiting a really long time for anyone to come to us, even though others around us were being served. In the end we had to ask someone if we could order. When we asked, politely I might add, he seemed like he didn’t want to help but did so reluctantly. We wanted to order 3 small plates each and a drink each. He didn’t write anything down, and we knew then it would be wrong.

Our first plate came after that and he literally chucked it down on table and walked off. We had no cutlery, no plates and no drinks. We then had to wait to ask another person to bring us plates and cutlery so we could eat what had been left infront of us, we also asked this person about our drinks. Following that the rest of the food did come out and eventually our drinks, but unsurprisingly the order was wrong and we had to repeat ourselves again and wait further. There was no apologies made and if I’m honest, we were made to feel like a nuisance for just asking for the basics.

I’m sure this is just a one off and usually it’s fine. But it wasn’t packed in there and it just left a sour taste in our mouth. What could have been a beautiful evening - a quiet dinner for my birthday, just felt chaotic.

Ultimately we promptly finished our meal and asked for the bill. The waiter again seemed like we were a nuisance and just ushered us to a cash register.

Although the food was good and the view is impeccable I would not go again and would not recommend at this point...