Bofinger or Le Train Bleu

[batears]

Which of these Belle Epoche Brasseries has the better food? Are they equally spectacular visually? Thanks! Claire

[LMGM]

If you're at all into seafood, get the Choucroute de la mer. It's a generous portion of mild sauerkraut, topped with a collection of seafood (three filets of fish, a whole shrimp (head on) and some other stuff. Also, for dessert, try "le trou normand." It's green-apple sorbet with a little shot of calvados liquor to toss on top. I blogged my last dinner there here: http://luisinparis.blogspot.com/2006/...

[jean_genetic]

This is late to the game, but I have to add my voice to the "hey, the food's not bad at Train Bleu" crowd. OK, so it isn't revelatory. But I had a terrific steak tartare there. Go. Have fun.

[workintheater]

Having a meal at LE TRAIN BLEU is the ONLY way to truly experience the place fully. It was one of my most magical experiences in Paris last year, not only for the spectacular decor but for the perfectly satisfying meal as well. Disregard nay-sayers.

[JaneST]

We just had dinner at Bofinger this past Saturday. It is surprisingly understated, even in the main room -- the dome is fabulous, of course, but it's definitely a room designed for people, not for the sounds of ooh and aah.

[batears]

Thank you all!! I think we'll go for the dazzle of Le Train Bleu!!

[Fuffy]

When there,would you find out whether one can go and just have a drink at Le Train Bleu to have a look and would you report back? The food is not supposed to be worth it.We'd be very grateful.

[Louisa Chu]

Absolutely you can just go for a drink - quite frankly that's all I recommend. But having said that - and with my apartment just up the street - I still find it a magical space. I'd suggest eating at nearby Biche au Bois and having drinks only at Le Train Bleu.

[Fuffy]

Thank you VERY much Louisa Chu for bothering. This information will be very useful.

[Busk]

Tough call. Probably about equal on the food: decent, but no greatness at either place.

[faijay]

I agree--so go for the gorgeousness of Le Train Bleu.

[George]

Agreed. Le Train Bleu is over the top, and lovely if you are just arriving back in Paris from the South and late at night. But Bofinger does probably have better food.

[PBSF]

For decor, definitely Le Train Bleu. For food if you choose carefully, Bofinger. It is also less expensive. And if you choose Bofinger, make sure you sit downstair which has the beautiful decor.