Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

London, United Kingdom

Red Room

New York, USA

La Esquina Brasserie

Tokyo, Japan

Don-Don

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Guide to

- you book them just for the pool

Europe's most spectacular pool hotels

EAT & STAY

Summer in Europe

in Sweden

The Most Unique Spas

Beaches, Clubs, Hotels & Things to Do

Ibiza 

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

New Launch: August 2025

Zimbabwe

Mpala Jena Private Villas

for Your Next Long Haul Flight

Beauty Hacks

Luxury Travel on a Budget

How To:

for a Stress-Free Trip

Top 10 Travel Hacks

with 30% discount

Get Lounge Access

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Discover

10 things to do in Stockholm

Stockholm

Dog Friendly Dining

Eat & Do

Hidden gems in Marbella

Explore

Koh Samui

A Tropical Getaway

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Paris

Zen restaurant in Paris is highly praised for its authentic Japanese cuisine, fresh ingredients, and attentive service. The ambiance is described as cozy and welcoming, making it a favorite among both locals and tourists. Many reviewers recommend trying the sushi, tempura, and gyoza, highlighting the freshness and quality of the dishes. The restaurant is also noted for its reasonable pricing, especially considering its location near major attractions like the Louvre.

Discover Zen Restaurant in Paris — A Japanese Culinary Gem Near the Louvre 

Nestled in the vibrant 1st arrondissement of Paris at 8 Rue de l'Échelle, Zen Restaurant offers a sophisticated escape into authentic Japanese flavors just steps from the iconic Louvre Museum. This modern Japanese dining spot has become a favorite for foodies craving fresh sushi, flavorful donburi rice bowls, and refined small plates crafted with meticulous attention to detail.

An Inviting Ambiance and Exceptional Service

The interior of Zen exudes a sleek, modern Japanese aesthetic that complements its culinary offerings. Guests often praise the warm, inviting atmosphere and attentive staff whose multilingual skills enhance the overall dining experience. Whether you're seated in the cozy lower section or enjoying the outdoor seating, you’ll feel right at home while savoring expertly prepared dishes and a curated selection of Japanese sake, beer, and wine.

Sushi lovers will find their paradise here, with dishes praised for their freshness and refined flavors.

 Highlights include exquisitely prepared beef tataki, creamy unagi, and a variety of nigiri and maki. Though some guests note slight variations in taste compared to their home experiences, the overall menu impresses with quality and authenticity. The restaurant also offers hearty bento boxes and donburi rice bowls for a fulfilling lunch or dinner.

Dine-in available with options for groups and outdoor seating.

Excellent service by efficient, friendly multilingual staff.

Wheelchair accessible with convenient payment options including contactless NFC and credit cards.

Located close to Palais Royal - Musée du Louvre and Pyramides metro stations for easy access.

No delivery or curbside pickup, but reservation for dinner is available.

Frequently Asked Questions about Zen Restaurant

What are the operating hours of Zen Restaurant?

 Zen Restaurant operates daily with lunch service from 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM and dinner service from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Reservations are accepted for dinner but not for lunch.

Is Zen Restaurant accessible by public transportation?

 Yes, Zen is accessible via the Palais Royal - Musée du Louvre metro station (lines 1 and 7) and the Pyramides station (lines 7 and 14).

Does Zen Restaurant offer vegetarian or vegan options?

 Yes, the menu includes vegetarian-friendly and vegan-friendly options.

 Yes, Zen is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring comfort for all guests.

 Yes, they accept credit cards as well as debit cards and contactless NFC payments.

Zen Restaurant consistently receives positive reviews for its authentic Japanese cuisine, fresh ingredients, and warm hospitality. Visitors appreciate the genuine flavors reminiscent of Japan, along with the accommodating and friendly service. While some diners note minor variations in taste compared to their personal sushi standards, the overall consensus highlights Zen as a must-visit culinary destination in Paris, blending cultural authenticity with a stylish atmosphere.

Experience Zen and savor some of the finest Japanese dishes in Paris’s historic heart.

Europe

France

Located at 8 Rue de l'Échelle in the heart of Paris, Zen is a modern Japanese restaurant that has quickly become a favorite among locals and tourists alike. With a sleek interior that combines traditional Japanese aesthetics with contemporary design, Zen offers a serene dining atmosphere that reflects its culinary philosophy. The restaurant specializes in sushi, bento boxes, and donburi rice bowls, making it a go-to spot for those seeking authentic Japanese flavors. Since its inception, Zen has garnered a reputation for quality and service, making it a noteworthy destination for food enthusiasts.

Zen's menu features a delightful array of dishes that highlight the freshness and quality of ingredients. Diners can indulge in beautifully crafted sushi, including nigiri and maki rolls, as well as hearty bento boxes filled with seasonal delights. The restaurant's commitment to authenticity is evident in every bite, making it a must-visit for sushi lovers. Here are some standout offerings:

Sushi Rolls: A variety of fresh rolls, including the classic California roll and the chef's special.

Beef Tataki: Tender slices of beef served with a zesty dipping sauce.

Teriyaki Chicken: Grilled chicken glazed with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce.

Unagi: Grilled eel served with a rich, sweet sauce.

Sake Selection: A curated list of Japanese sake to complement your meal.

Lunchtime bento boxes, sushi & donburi rice bowls, plus small plates at dinner, in a modern space.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNRLUxxdW9BRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJKzegdyVu5kcRmu5GJO1fAiY/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNRLUxxdW9BRRAB

As someone who was lucky enough to have visited Japan 8 times, this is the only place where I really enjoy eating sushi in Paris. Aside from sushi, every dish is tastefully designed and brings out the most refined flavours. I can't wait for our next visit.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmOHU3QWpnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJKzegdyVu5kcRmu5GJO1fAiY/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmOHU3QWpnRRAB

Zen in Paris offers excellent service with efficient and multilingual staff who truly enhance the dining experience. However, the food didn’t quite live up to the hype for us, with some dishes standing out more than others.

The beef tataki was the highlight for me—perfectly prepared and flavorful. On the other hand, my husband found the teriyaki chicken overly sweet, and the butchering style wasn’t to his preference. The nigiri and maki were fine but didn’t meet my expectations, especially compared to the sushi I’m accustomed to in California. The fish slices were very thin, and a few pieces didn’t taste or look quite right.

While we appreciated the attentive service, the overall experience felt inconsistent with the high praise we’d heard.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNudzR5alF3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJKzegdyVu5kcRmu5GJO1fAiY/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNudzR5alF3EAE

What a great restaurant. We had space in the lower section of the restaurant. It’s a modern Japanese style interior. The service is very friendly and helps you with everything.
The food tasted so good. It reminded me of Japan. The unagi was very creamy and so delicious. I highly recommend a dinner here.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNubmFfc0lnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJKzegdyVu5kcRmu5GJO1fAiY/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNubmFfc0lnEAE

High quality japanese food at reasonable price, and not forgetting the excellent service! All these are the reasons why I visited the restaurant three times in just one week! To be honest, I was sceptical about my first visit as the restaurant is close to the Louvre, and i can't help thinking it might be a tourist trap. It's totally wrong! It has become our go-to restaurant when we crave japanese food!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChRDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3aW81TBAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJKzegdyVu5kcRmu5GJO1fAiY/reviews/ChRDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUM3aW81TBAB

Delectable authentic Japanese food. This restaurant should be on your list of places to visit. The ingredients are exceptionally fresh, and everything on the menu is delicious, so you can't go wrong with any order. There is also a nice selection of Japanese sake to round out the entire meal.

Experience Authentic Japanese Cuisine at Zen, Paris

Zen restaurant, located at 8 Rue de l'Échelle in Paris, has been serving authentic Japanese cuisine since its establishment in April 2006. It is situated near the Louvre, in the Palais Royal area, and is known for its traditional Japanese dishes prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Nestled in the heart of Paris's Palais Royal district, Zen Restaurant has been a beacon of authentic Japanese culinary tradition since its inception in 2006. This iconic establishment masterfully balances the rich heritage of Japanese cuisine with the vibrant dining culture of Paris, creating a unique and inviting experience for all guests.

Founded in April 2006, Zen Restaurant was created with a dedication to traditional Japanese cuisine emphasizing the freshest seasonal ingredients. The restaurant offers two distinct dining atmospheres: a lively Japanese canteen experience at lunchtime featuring bento boxes, sushi, and donburi rice bowls, and a sophisticated dinner service centered around small, artfully crafted Japanese dishes.

—born in 1976 in Shiga, Japan—brought his passion and expert skills to Zen. After honing his craft in various Japanese and French restaurants to deeply understand the contrasting culinary tastes and techniques of both cultures, he returned to Zen in 2015 to lead its kitchen. His innovative approach continues to elevate the restaurant’s offerings, blending authenticity with creative touches that delight food enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.

2006: Zen Restaurant opened its doors in the picturesque Palais Royal district, setting a new standard for Japanese dining in Paris.

2015: Chef Mitsuru Yamada returned after enriching his culinary expertise abroad, intensifying Zen’s reputation for authentic and refined Japanese cuisine.

With its prime location near the Louvre, Zen has become a beloved destination for locals and travelers craving genuine Japanese flavors. The restaurant’s blend of a modern Japanese ambiance, attentive multilingual service, and commitment to quality ingredients ensures a memorable dining experience. From expertly crafted sushi to seasonal delicacies, Zen’s menu showcases the best of Japan’s culinary traditions right in the heart of Paris.

Outdoor Seating

Restroom

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Good for Groups

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Serves Coffee

Draped in the romantic allure of Paris, tucked away at 8 Rue de l'Échelle, lies Zen – a culinary sanctuary that transports you to the heart of sensory delight. This enchanting eatery is harmoniously designed, echoing tranquility with its gentle tones and minimalist decor that invite you to unwind amid the vibrant city's hustle. Surrounded by the whispers of street musicians and the laughter of locals, Zen offers a serene escape right in the heart of the bustling 1st arrondissement. The menu, an exquisite masterpiece, is a fusion of time-honored recipes and innovative flair, showcasing a palette of flavors that burst with creativity. Each dish is meticulously crafted, showcasing the finest local ingredients, and is a reflection of the chef's passion for culinary artistry. From aromatic pho to delicate sushi rolls, every bite is a journey through the rich tapestry of Asian cuisines, ensuring an unforgettable gastronomic adventure. While the culinary experience is undeniably the highlight, it is the warm, attentive service that elevates each visit into a cherished memory. As day turns to night, the soft lighting casts a magical glow, complementing the artistic dishes that grace your table. Outdoor seating provides the perfect vantage point, overlooking the historic streets of Paris, where you can savor every moment as life unfolds around you. Whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner for two or a lively gathering with friends, Zen stands out as a beacon of elegance and taste in one of the world’s most captivating cities. A visit here promises not just a meal, but a celebration of Parisian flair and culinary harmonies that linger long after the last course.

A selection of traditional Japanese dishes prepared with fresh ingredients.

Assortiment de sushi

Assortiment royal de sushi

Chirashi

Edamame - soja vert

Tofu nature

Salade de pommes de terre et oignon à la mayonnaise

Takoyaki - beignets de pomme de terre et de poulpe

Tofu de sésame

Foie de lotte à la vapeur, sauce ponzu

Poulpe au vinaigre, algues et concombre, sauce au miso vinaigrée

Gyoza - raviolis grillés au porc et légumes

Poulet frit

Salade verte aux algues, sauce vinaigrette au sésame

Aubergine grillée nappée de miso sucré au yuzu

Saumon grillé teriyaki

Saumon grillé au miso

Maquereau grillé au sel

Morue charbonnière grillée au miso

Poulet grillé teriyaki

Tonkatsu - porc pané

Tempura de légumes

Tempura de légumes et crevettes

Menu 2025

Discover the Exquisite Menu at Zen in Paris - Traditional Japanese Flavors in Modern Elegance 

Nestled in the heart of Paris, Zen offers a sublime culinary journey through Japan’s most beloved dishes. This modern Japanese restaurant masterfully blends traditional flavors with seasonal ingredients to delight food lovers and sushi aficionados alike. Whether you are craving the delicate art of sushi, hearty grilled mains, or flavorful starters, Zen’s menu is crafted to satisfy every palate with a refined touch.

Begin your meal with a vibrant selection of starters that showcase authentic Japanese flavors and textures. From the simple, comforting 

, each dish is crafted with precision. Other highlights include the 

green salad with seaweed and sesame vinaigrette

grilled eggplant topped with sweet yuzu miso

At Zen, mains are a celebration of both sushi artistry and expertly grilled delicacies. Sushi lovers will revel in the 

, a carefully curated selection of assorted sushi pieces that highlight the freshest fish and delicate rice preparation. For those seeking something extra special, the 

 offers premium sushi pieces made for true connoisseurs.

Chirashi, a vibrant bowl of assorted raw fish atop vinegared rice

, and a variety of grilled specialties such as 

teriyaki salmon, miso grilled salmon, and salt-grilled mackerel

 is a particularly luscious choice, delivering creamy texture and deep umami notes. For meat lovers, the 

grilled chicken teriyaki and breaded pork cutlet (Tonkatsu)

 provide savory satisfaction, while the crispy 

 offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

After savoring the rich flavors of your main course, indulge in Zen’s thoughtfully prepared desserts that provide a sweet and satisfying finale to your dining experience. Each dessert is crafted to complement the delicate tastes of Japanese cuisine, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and texture.

Zen also boasts an impressive selection of beverages, including carefully curated Japanese sake and classic drinks to complement your meal. Whether you prefer a crisp cold beer, a delicate glass of wine, or a comforting cup of coffee, the beverage menu is designed to enhance every bite.

Why Choose Zen for Your Japanese Dining Experience

 prepared with seasonal ingredients for freshness and depth.

 from sushi platters to grilled mains and tempura.

 featuring modern Japanese style décor perfect for groups or intimate dinners.

 ensuring a seamless and welcoming dining experience.

Savor exquisite flavors at Zen, a hidden Paris gem on Rue de l'Échelle. Indulge in a culinary escape and taste the magic of Parisian cuisine today!

Zen Restaurant in Paris - Culinary Gem by Louvre

Paris Municipality

A set menu available during lunchtime offering a selection of dishes at a fixed price.

Lunch Set Menu

An extensive menu available during dinner hours featuring a variety of Japanese dishes.

Dinner Menu

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Paris at 8 Rue de l'Échelle, Zen is a standout destination for Japanese cuisine lovers seeking authentic flavors and a contemporary dining atmosphere. This modern spot masterfully blends traditional Japanese culinary artistry with Parisian flair, offering an unmatched experience for foodies, digital nomads, and trend-conscious travelers alike.

Lunchtime Delights: Bento, Sushi, and More in Paris

Zen’s lunch service is curated to bring you classic Japanese dishes like bento boxes, donburi rice bowls, and comforting Japanese curry. For those craving expertly prepared sushi, maki, and sashimi, the sushi master crafts each piece with precision and freshness, delivering refined tastes that echo the culinary traditions of Japan right in Paris.

Dinner at Zen: Seasonal Izakaya Small Plates and Specials

 at Zen is an exploration of Japanese culinary creativity, featuring a broad menu with daily specials inspired by seasonal ingredients. The Izakaya-style small plates encourage sharing and tasting a variety of flavors — perfect for groups and those looking to savor a diverse meal. Each dish is thoughtfully designed to highlight the freshest produce and authentic seasoning.

 is around 26€ for a delicious serving of bento, donburi, and sushi specialties.

 is approximately 58€, reflecting the extensive menu with seasonal Izakaya specials.

Zen is praised for its fresh, high-quality ingredients and meticulous preparation that transports diners to Japan without leaving Paris. The modern Japanese-style interior offers a cozy yet sophisticated setting, complemented by friendly, multilingual staff that elevate the dining experience. Whether you are enjoying sushi crafted by a sushi master or savoring the creamy unagi, every dish is a celebration of refined flavors.

 is available for those who enjoy dining al fresco in the bustling Parisian streetscape, alongside options to enjoy wine, beer, and authentic Japanese sake, completing your meal perfectly.

Practical Information for Your Visit to Zen

 is recommended to secure a spot in this popular Japanese restaurant near the Louvre.

 include debit, credit cards, and NFC payments, offering convenience for all guests.

 includes restroom facilities and an atmosphere suitable for groups, though the venue does not serve breakfast or offer delivery.

Experience Authentic Japanese Dining at Zen Paris 

Nestled in the heart of Paris at 8 Rue de l'Échelle, Zen offers a refined journey into authentic Japanese cuisine that delights both locals and visitors alike. With a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients, this modern Japanese restaurant crafts a menu that showcases the subtle and sophisticated flavors of traditional sushi, donburi rice bowls, and artfully prepared small plates.

What makes Zen a standout choice in Paris

From the moment you step into Zen's warm and inviting space, you are greeted by attentive and friendly multilingual staff who elevate the dining experience. The restaurant’s atmosphere blends modern Japanese aesthetics with a cozy vibe, making it a perfect spot for groups and intimate dinners alike. Zen serves both lunch and dinner, providing a versatile option for those craving authentic Japanese flavors throughout the day.

 prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients ensuring genuine flavor.

 from multilingual staff enhances the overall dining experience.

 with a modern Japanese style interior perfect for groups and intimate dinners.

 and accepts major credit cards for convenience.

Akabeko − Restaurant Fusion Franco Japonais

Le Poulpry

Cinq-Mars