As a local with a passion for my city, I can't keep my best addresses to myself, I MUST share them with you.
You'll find some of them on this page.
Please note that a comprehensive guide is currently being developed. I will share it here as soon as it is finished!
In the meantime, to make the most of the evenings in Fontainebleau, here are a few restaurants, bars and nightclubs to give you a flavour of the city's nightlife.
Must-try restaurants: where to eat well in Fontainebleau
Rue Montebello: a nugget for gourmets
This charming pedestrian street is full of excellent restaurants. La Petite Ardoise, for example, is a sure bet: refined bistro cuisine that is always fresh and flavourful. It's a big hit with my guests! (It must be said that my studios are a 1-minute walk away, so it's really the best value for money in terms of the experience and effort required to get there!)
Just across the road, Le Bistrot 9 seduces us with its generous home-cooked dishes, a restaurant we go to regularly for family occasions.
Also a must.
Generally speaking, you can't go wrong with rue Montebello.
Gastronomic curiosities
If you're looking for a more intimate and unique experience, I recommend Viva Vino, a cellar restaurant specialising in natural wines. With only five tables, it is the perfect place to share fresh dishes in a warm atmosphere. Note that David and Elodie speak English (and Elodie also speaks German). The Axel, is THE Michelin-starred restaurant in town, offering refined gourmet cuisine that combines French tradition with Japanese influences. Finally, to complete this picture of “special specialities”, Casa Azul offers Tex-Mex street food with subtle and surprising flavours.
Bars and party venues: where to have a drink
Rue du Coq Gris: the neighbourhood on the move
First of all, you should know that this street is perpendicular to rue Montebello... So there's already a plan in place for the evening, isn't there?
Le GlasgowThis must-see Scottish pub is renowned for its live music on Thursday evenings. Beware, avoid if you're looking for a quiet evening.
Just a few metres away, Le Triptik offers a modern and relaxed atmosphere, ideal for an afterwork or a musical evening.
I also really like, l'Enclave, a cosy little bar opposite the triptik, and Le Bonaparte, down the street, which has a well-established reputation for its warm welcome.
Little nuggets with animation
A little further on, on Rue de la Corne (well, far is relative, it's a two-minute walk), dance enthusiasts will be charmed by Le Mojito Club with its salsa classes and unique Caribbean atmosphere.
Atypical places: secret terraces and hidden gardens
Hidden terrace for a quiet moment
For a drink in a surprising setting, discover Le Swing Bar (63 Rue Grande). This little-known cultural café, despite its porch overlooking Rue Grande, has an inner courtyard that is a little run-down, as is often the case with backyards in Fontainebleau. It is shaded by lime trees in summer and is perfect for an evening with friends. Jazz concerts are held frequently; see their programme.
From his side, La Demeure du Parc (36 rue Paul Séramy), a calm and chic place, welcomes you to its elegant garden.
Ideal for sipping a cocktail under the stars.
My practical advice for making the most of your evenings
- Booking is always a good idea. In Fontainebleau, reservations are highly recommended, especially on Monday evenings when many establishments are closed.
- Timetables you need to know. Most bars on Rue du Coq Gris close around 1 a.m., while restaurants begin service at 7 p.m. and generally serve until 10:30 p.m.
And if you don't feel like changing establishments for eating and drinking, the terraces of the Place Napoléon Bonaparte should make your day: sit back and enjoy the view of the illuminated carousel from start to finish.
Ready to explore Fontainebleau's nightlife? Try out these places and let yourself be surprised by the unique atmosphere of Fontainebleau at night. A memorable evening awaits you!
