Maison Fournaise Chatou
Historic restaurant on the Seine, once a haunt for Impressionist painters like Renoir, offering scenic dining.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Romantic ambiance by the Seine
Maison Fournaise Chatou
Best Time
Romantic ambiance by the Seine
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic restaurant on the Seine, once a haunt for Impressionist painters like Renoir, offering scenic dining.
"Dine on the balcony where Renoir painted his masterpiece, with delicious food and beautiful Seine views."
🎯 Reserve Your Table
Essential for securing a spot, especially on the terrace with Seine views.
🚗 Ample Parking Nearby
Convenient parking is available, making your visit hassle-free.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Renoir's Balcony
Deck overlooking the Seine
Dine or enjoy a drink on the very balcony where Renoir painted his masterpiece. The views are as inspiring as the art.
The 'Luncheon of the Boating Party' Connection
Restaurant interior and exterior
Immerse yourself in the history of this iconic painting, a testament to the restaurant's artistic past.
Seine Riverfront Dining
Outdoor terrace
Enjoy delicious French cuisine with picturesque views of the Seine, offering a tranquil escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Prime Spots
Embrace the Impressionist Legacy
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Reserve Your Table
Essential for securing a spot, especially on the terrace with Seine views.
🚗 Ample Parking Nearby
Convenient parking is available, making your visit hassle-free.
🖼️ Explore the Art History
Discover the stories behind the Impressionist painters who frequented this spot.
🥂 Enjoy the Ambiance
Savor the charming atmosphere and picturesque Seine river views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Reserve Your Table
Essential for securing a spot, especially on the terrace with Seine views.
🚗 Ample Parking Nearby
Convenient parking is available, making your visit hassle-free.
🖼️ Explore the Art History
Discover the stories behind the Impressionist painters who frequented this spot.
🥂 Enjoy the Ambiance
Savor the charming atmosphere and picturesque Seine river views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Maison Fournaise offers a unique blend of history, art, and riverside dining. Visitors praise the beautiful views, the connection to Renoir's masterpiece, and the generally delicious French cuisine. However, some reviews point to slow service and less comfortable seating as drawbacks, suggesting that while the ambiance is a strong draw, consistency in service can vary.
"We spent a delightful August evening here with a large group. Our meals were delicious, the view on the deck was wonderful, we had amazing service. Reservations recommended.."
Lorna Millward
"Very nice restaurant in Chatou. It has a beautiful view over the river and the restaurant is a patrimonial building with old drawings on the walls. The food was very delicious specially the ombrine fish . They have a list of allergens. The wine was excellent as well as the service. I recommend on hot summer days. Plenty of parking spaces nearby."
Christelle Sabbagh
"We asked for water and after 10min it still did not come so we called another waiter and he asked if we had ordered it, we said yes and he went and got it. The person who took the order was busy clearing tables where people had left so she must have forgot to get us the water. It was 30C and very hot. The 1st course was a piece of terrine and it was very hard and dry. Came with no sauce and felt like it had been taken from the back of the fridge. The glass of champagne was not chilled, temperature was slightly cool. Main courses were mostly beef which was cooked correctly but the steak knives were blunt so not easy to cut the meat. It was our wedding anniversary dinner and I had been looking forward to the food, ambiance and service. We drove from Switzerland so it was a planned event. The wait staff are young and not focused on customer service. This next generation need a lot more oversight on what service means in restaurants that are marketed as good locations. Also the seating is a mix of small wooden garden chairs that curve inwards and press into your legs, very uncomfortable and more modern chairs that have no sides so easier to sit on. Very disappointed overall."
Dervilla Mekitarian
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Maison Fournaise is located on the Île des Impressionnistes in Chatou. You can reach it by RER A to Chatou station, followed by a short walk or bus ride. Driving is also an option with parking available nearby.
Yes, it's a convenient escape from Paris. The RER A line provides direct access, making it a popular day trip destination.
Consider a leisurely approach by taking a boat trip on the Seine if available, or enjoy a scenic walk along the riverbanks after arriving by public transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Maison Fournaise is primarily a restaurant. While there isn't an entry fee for the restaurant itself, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dining.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on dining hours and any potential museum or exhibition times.
For a romantic evening, summer evenings are ideal for the ambiance by the Seine. Weekday afternoons offer a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Maison Fournaise offers classic French cuisine with a modern flair, often featuring delicious dishes prepared by talented chefs. +1
While specific options can change, it's advisable to inquire about vegetarian or vegan choices when making your reservation or upon arrival.
Many visitors celebrate special occasions here, drawn by the ambiance and river views. However, some reviews mention slow service and inconsistent food quality, so manage expectations.
It's considered a fine dining establishment, with prices reflecting the quality of food, service, and historical ambiance. Some reviews suggest it offers good value for the experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The balcony overlooking the Seine, the charming interior with historical drawings, and the exterior architecture are all excellent photo opportunities.
Yes, you can generally take photos inside the restaurant to capture the ambiance and historical decor.
While general photography is usually permitted, it's always polite to be discreet and avoid disrupting other diners.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Consider visiting during lunch hours when the atmosphere might be more relaxed. While the menu focuses on classic French cuisine, it's worth inquiring about simpler options that might appeal to younger palates. Be mindful that some seating might not be the most comfortable for very young children, and service can sometimes be slow, so patience is key. 🎨 Art Enthusiasts
+1 Take time to appreciate the historical drawings and photographs displayed within the restaurant, which offer glimpses into its artistic past. +1 The surrounding Île des Impressionnistes also offers a charming environment for a stroll, further enhancing the artistic immersion. 🥂 Couples Seeking Romance
+1 Booking a table in advance, particularly for an evening, is highly recommended to secure the best views and ensure a memorable experience. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Haven for Impressionist Artists
+5 The vibrant atmosphere and scenic riverside location attracted many artists and writers of the late 19th century, including Guy de Maupassant, Claude Monet, and Camille Pissarro, making it a true hub of artistic and literary life. +1Today, the restaurant strives to maintain this artistic legacy. Visitors can still dine on the very balcony where Renoir set up his easel, offering a unique opportunity to connect with art history. The walls inside often feature historical drawings and photographs, further immersing guests in the site's rich past.
+1 This historical connection is a major draw for visitors seeking an experience that blends culinary delight with cultural immersion.While the restaurant has undergone renovations and changes in management over the years, its core identity as an artistic landmark remains. The city of Chatou played a crucial role in preserving and restoring the building, ensuring that its historical significance is honored for future generations.
Culinary Delights by the Seine
+1 Diners can expect well-prepared meals, with specific mentions of delicious fish dishes like ombrine and well-cooked beef. The outdoor terrace, particularly the 'Renoir Balcony,' is a highlight, offering stunning views of the Seine.
+1 This setting makes it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a leisurely lunch, especially during warmer months. Despite occasional critiques, many visitors find the food delicious and the wine selection excellent.
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