Au Pied de Cochon

Au Pied de Cochon is one of Paris's most iconic brasseries, operating continuously since 1947 in the Les Halles district. Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, it occupies a gorgeously ornate interior with painted ceilings, gilded mirrors, and white-jacketed waiters delivering towers of fresh oysters and steaming bowls of onion soup.

For families, the 24/7 hours are the secret weapon. Jet-lagged with kids who want dinner at 10 PM or breakfast at 6 AM? Au Pied de Cochon has you covered. The atmosphere is lively without being rowdy, and children are welcomed without fuss — this is a generational Parisian institution where families have been bringing kids for decades.

The menu centers on classic French brasserie fare. The French onion soup gratinée is arguably the best in Paris — a deep, rich broth topped with melted Gruyère that even picky eaters tend to love. Other kid-accessible options include croque monsieur, steak frites, and simpler grilled meats.

There's no formal children's menu, but waiters are accustomed to accommodating families and can suggest appropriate dishes.

Prices reflect the grand setting and prime location — expect to spend 80-140 EUR for a family of 4 depending on what you order. The lunch prix fixe, when available, is the best value. This isn't an everyday restaurant, but as a special-occasion meal that introduces kids to the magic of a real Parisian brasserie, it delivers an experience that fast-casual spots simply can't match.