Discover the timeless charm of Au Moulin à Vent in Paris's 5th arrondissement, a beloved bistro where classic French gastronomy meets vintage ambiance.
Nestled at 20 Rue des Fossés Saint-Bernard, Au Moulin à Vent is a quintessential Parisian escape offering a warm, inviting atmosphere reminiscent of post-war 1946. Its red banquettes, wine barrel light fixtures, and an impressive display of wine bottles set an intimate scene that's perfect for food lovers, locals, and travelers seeking an authentic French bistro experience.
A Culinary Journey of French Classics with a Cozy Twist
The menu at Au Moulin à Vent showcases traditional dishes prepared with passion and quality ingredients. Highlights include the succulent poitrine de veau confite 15 heures , tender veal slowly cooked to perfection, and the iconic œufs bio mayonnaise, a simple yet refined starter adored by many. Other favorites include rich bouef bourguignon, perfectly cooked magret canard, and the ever-popular snails and frog legs for those seeking a true Parisian taste adventure.
Dessert lovers will appreciate the light profiteroles with warm chocolate sauce, a perfect end to a meal. Though the portions may lean on the modest side, the quality and flavor consistently impress guests, making every visit memorable.
Ambiance and Service That Feels Like Home
Au Moulin à Vent boasts an authentic vintage décor that transports visitors to a lively post-war Parisian tavern. The vibrant atmosphere buzzes especially in the evenings as locals and tourists gather to enjoy fine wine, expertly served cocktails, and an array of French specialties.
Service is consistently praised for its warmth and professionalism, with multilingual staff — including an Italian waiter well-versed in wines — who make guests feel welcomed and attended to without the stiffness of more pretentious establishments.
Planning Your Visit to Au Moulin à Vent
Whether you’re stopping by for a leisurely lunch or an intimate dinner, Au Moulin à Vent welcomes you with its classic Parisian charm. Outdoor seating is available, and the venue is accessible to wheelchair users. While the menu features some vegetarian dishes, the focus remains firmly on meat-centric French classics. The restaurant accepts both credit and debit cards and offers paid street parking nearby.
- What are the restaurant's operating hours? Au Moulin à Vent operates Tuesday to Saturday, serving lunch from 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM and dinner from 7:30 PM to 11:00 PM. It is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
- Is there a dress code at Au Moulin à Vent? Guests are encouraged to dress smart-casual to complement the restaurant’s cozy yet refined ambiance.
- Does the restaurant accept reservations? Reservations are recommended, especially during busy evening hours, to secure your table.
- Are there vegetarian options available? While the focus is on meat dishes, there are some vegetarian choices on the menu to accommodate different preferences.
- Is the restaurant wheelchair accessible? Yes, Au Moulin à Vent welcomes all guests with wheelchair accessibility throughout the premises.
Community sentiment and what to expect
Guests consistently commend Au Moulin à Vent for its authentic French dishes, such as the velvety œufs bio mayonnaise and the richly flavored veal shoulder slow-cooked for 15 hours. Patrons appreciate the attentive service, where multilingual staff add a personal touch, and the vintage 1940s décor creates a nostalgic yet vibrant dining environment.
While the atmosphere is lively and engaging, some visitors note that the space can get noisy when busy, which adds to the authentic bistro feel but may not suit those seeking quiet dining. Additionally, portion sizes might be smaller than some expect, but the emphasis on quality and flavor ensures a satisfying experience.
