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Welcome To Foyer de la Madeleine
Foyer de la Madeleine, located beneath a stunning Catholic church in Paris, offers a unique dining experience that combines community spirit with excellent cuisine. Operated entirely by volunteers, this hidden gem serves noteworthy three-course meals that change daily, all for an affordable price. Guests must purchase a membership, with proceeds going to charity, creating a palpable sense of purpose within the space. The ambiance, reminiscent of medieval tunnels, enhances the cozy, familial atmosphere. Diners rave about the homely dishes, particularly the delightful strawberry tart, served with warmth and genuine hospitality. It's a must-visit for those seeking more than just a meal in the City of Lights.
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About
Foyer de la Madeleine
Welcome to the enchanting world of Foyer de la Madeleine, a hidden gem nestled beneath a historic church in the heart of Paris. Located at Pl. de la Madeleine, 75008 Paris, this unique community restaurant operates as a sanctuary for those seeking simple, hearty meals that nourish both the body and soul. Here, dining transcends the ordinary — it’s a magical journey through culinary delight wrapped in a spirit of togetherness and altruism.
To savor the offerings at Foyer de la Madeleine, guests purchase a membership, either as a day pass for €4 or an annual pass for just €10. This small fee is not merely an entry ticket but a contribution to a charitable cause, as all proceeds benefit local initiatives. Dining here is an experience unlike any other. The fixed-price menu, available only during lunch on weekdays, features a delightful three-course meal for €13.50, with options rotating daily. As you step into this subterranean haven, you are met with an extensive, labyrinthine space reminiscent of medieval tunnels, designed with a creative touch by the notable French artist JR.
The menu strikes a perfect balance between simplicity and flavor. As you embark on this culinary adventure, expect dishes that evoke the comforting essence of home-cooked meals. A standout recommendation from diners includes the strawberry tart, a dessert that encapsulates summer with its freshness and exquisite flavor. Patrons rave about the friendly service provided by devoted volunteers — many of them regulars who have forged connections with guests over the years. This warmth and attention transform a meal into a gathering, making you feel like part of a close-knit community.
It’s a place not just to eat, but to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Paris while also supporting a noble cause. The inviting atmosphere, combined with reasonably priced, delectable food and compassionate service, elevates the dining experience at Foyer de la Madeleine to a heartwarming affair. As you savor each bite, surrounded by the rustic charm and lively conversations, you might just discover a deeper appreciation for the city beyond its bustling streets and vibrant chaos.
So next time you're wandering through Paris, seeking refuge from the clamor of tourist traps, consider dropping by Foyer de la Madeleine. Here, it's not just about the meal; it’s a delightful escape that feeds the soul.
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ Interesting place indeed ! You buy a pass (10€/yr) then you pay a menu (inexpensive) which gives you a choice of a starter, main and dessert. Drinks extra and sometimes coffee offered. To try and at least once ”
“ This is a hidden gem in the place of Matland, which is a church of Madland simple restaurant on too much. They do have wine by the glass by the meat, which means a quarter and piece shape which is half a bottle. Also if you need to buy the ticketsand other types of tickets for entertainment whether there is theater or ballet or opera this is a place to get them like we do in New York cheap tickets ”
“ Amazing food, lovely staff, great service. It was the highlight of our visit to Paris. ”
“ A hidden tunnel restaurant under a church. This place really vibey as if I’m brought back the the medieval century. This is my very first meal of my trip to Paris, the service here are considerate and made me feel welcome to the romantic city. The lunch set here is reasonable with tasty desserts after the main course. Hopefully I can visit again:) ”
“ Wonderful hidden gem and run entirely by volunteers. Entry fee is cheap. A fixed-menu, 3 course meal. Supports a wonderful charity. The food is homecooked and very good. Staff were very friendly and helpful and some were able to speak English for us. It looked like some of the guests were regulars as they seemed familiar with some of the staff. ”
“ When you visit Église de la Madeleine, don't forget to have a lunch at Foyer de la Madeleine! The staffs at Foyer de la Madeleine greet You with big smiles! When I visited Foyer de la Madeleine, I was the only foreigner there, but the volunteer staffs were very helpful. I shared my table with a lady and she helped me to choose menu options. During the lunch, we talked a lot and had a heartwarming time. Visiting Foyer de la Madeleine is more than just for lunch. You will get more! ”
“ one of paris’ best kept secrets is this restaurant at the basement of a catholic church: foyer de la madeleine is a community restaurant, staffed entirely by volunteers from the kitchen to the floor. opens mon-fri for lunch only, from 1145am to 145pm. only walk-ins allowed. the space is extensive.. tables placed along what seems like a long underground network of tunnels? so brilliant! bonus: finding out that one of my favourite french artists JR (@jr on instagram) designed the interiors! to dine here, you have to purchase a membership (4euro for day membership, 10euro for annual membership) - all proceed go to charity. meals are 13.50euro per pax and come in 3 courses. menu changes daily. wines are 3.50euro per caraffe. food’s simple, homely, and superbly executed especially the strawberry tart we had. the servers were SUPER friendly, had so much heart and quickly felt like family. i left with my belly full, spirit nourished and heart expanded. i highly recommend checking this place out when in paris. not a fan of the city (here for work) but wonderful places like Foyer de la Madeleine remind me that there is so much more to this city than horrible traffic, pickpockets and cigarette smoke. ”