Bringing Your Own Wine to Restaurants in Paris: A Guide

If you are a wine enthusiast visiting Paris, you might wonder if it’s possible to bring your own wine to restaurants and bars. While it’s not a common practice, there are specific places where you can do this, often with a corkage fee attached. Here’s your comprehensive guide on the dos and don’ts of bringing your own wine to dining establishments in Paris.

Understanding Corkage Fees in Paris

In fine dining establishments, you typically can't bring your own wine without incurring a corkage fee. This fee, commonly known as the “bouchon,” is designed to cover the cost of the service staff and the establishment. If you wish to bring your own wine, you should be prepared to pay this fee.

The term ‘bouchon’ is used to indicate that you will be charged for bringing your own bottle of wine. To be clear, ask the server or the owner about the corkage fee with the appropriate phrase: “Quel est le prix du bouchon si nous amenons notre vin?”

Exceptions: Bringing Your Own Wine for Free

If your question is about bringing your own wine without incurring any cost, the answer is simple: in most cases, you cannot do this unless you have a close relationship with the establishment, such as being a relative or a very close friend of the owner. Some private clubs and members-only dining rooms might be more flexible, but you should confirm in advance.

Although it is quite rare to find a restaurant that allows you to bring your own wine for free, the variety of options is expanding. If you are selective in your search, you can find interesting bars and restaurants that might accommodate your request, provided you have inquired in advance and have a plan B ready.

A List of Eateries Allowing You to Bring Your Own Wine

There are a few Parisian dining spots that welcome the idea of patrons bringing their own bottles. However, it’s important to note that the allowance of this practice can be highly dependent on the restaurant’s current approach and policies.

Here’s a list of restaurants that are known to allow bringing your own wine, often with a corkage fee. Please confirm the latest information with the restaurant:

These places can be great for a more personal dining experience and a chance to try a variety of wines that you might have brought with you. However, it’s always a good idea to call or check the website to ensure that the policy hasn’t changed.

Conclusion

While bringing your own wine to a Parisian restaurant is a surprising perk that adds a personal touch to your dining experience, it’s not a standard practice. It’s worth checking in advance and confirming the policies of any establishment you plan to visit. Whether you are indulging in a romantic dinner or an after-work drink, having a bottle of your favorite wine can certainly enhance the experience.

Remember, when you do bring your own wine, be sure to be respectful and communicative with your server. Understanding and respecting local customs can make your dining experience in Paris even more enriching and enjoyable.