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Filles du Calvaire
Saint-Sébastien - Froissart
Oberkampf
- Hours:
Mon-Wed, Sun 12 pm - 11 pm
Thu-Sat 12 pm - 12 am
- Good for Groups:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Price Range:
-
€€
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Music:
- Background
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Thu, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- No
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- Outdoor Area/ Patio Only
- Coat Check:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Loud
- Good For Dancing:
- No
- Ambience:
- Trendy
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- No
44 reviews for Candelaria
25 reviews in English
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Review from Wolfgang V.
4/16/2012
Lived in Paris for a month and this was by far the best Mexican restaurant I visited. Warning: Mexican food is authentic, and if you're looking for Tex-Mex, which is what most Americans like myself are used to, you won't find it. Offers heavier Quesadillas and light options on tacos and tostadas, as well as all the essential Mexican beers. The bar in back is similarly well done, with a uniquely artistic ambiance--most of the guys I met there were travelers or plugged into the art / fashion scene somehow, with a decent mix of musicians and writers. Banker crowd not heavily represented. Friendly staff, and the cocktail mixers were all straight-up professionals--everyone spoke English, and if you ask them to improvise off-menu they will ask what sort of drink you're looking for, then come up with something appropriate. Cocktails are 10-12 euros, but considering that you can go to most of the other "cocktail-themed" bars and pay 14-15 euro, it's reasonably priced. I would say it's a must-visit. Keep in mind that it gets busy at all the times that you'd expect a popular restaurant-bar in Paris to be busy, and space is limited.
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Review from Katie M.
Paris
2/25/2012
3 stars for the food. 4 stars for the back room.
Food was tasty although not the best I've ever had. We didn't know there was hardly any seating, so the wait to sit down with our group of 4 was a little unfortunate, but people were cool about it. The guacamole was a highlight -- some places in Paris weirdly put lots of crême fraîche in it as if that's sour cream, but not here.
What I enjoyed most of all was the bar. It's a lot less cramped, and I loved the inventive cocktails they had on the menu probably more than any other "craft" cocktail place I've been to in Paris. Yeah, they are expensive. But in the States I regularly chose to frequent places with drinks of that price and caliber, so I've already made my peace. I'll pay that price if it's that good, and it was. If you're a cocktail snob, this place is a great for some relief from "une pinte" of whatever's on tap. -
Review from Alex P.
1/22/2012
Tacos in Paris (cookies for breakfast)?
It's about fucking time this city gets some decent ethnic cuisine
The bar in the back is also great
Pretty American though -
Review from Evan B.
Paris
1/18/2012
A bit over-rated - ok ALOT overrated... I read all these gushing reviews and went but maybe I was expecting too much? I think it's probably taco nirvana for folks under 30 but for old dudes like me (who know their Mexican) it just don't work.
However, I'd recommend for young Americans who want to drink tequila and meet other young Americans in Paris. Don't come for the food, service, or ambiance. You'll be sad and disappointed.
The margaritas were industrial and remind me of something you might get in Cleveland and I've had better tacos in a Monterrey Bus Station.
Years from now I'm sure I'll read a pulitzer-prize winning novel written by someone who in their 20's lives in Paris and used to spend their evenings at Candelaria...
Don't get me wrong, if you're 20 and don't really know your groceries yet you will absolutely love this place. If not for the drinks then for the social interaction! -
Review from Karina K.
Paris
4/4/2012
Too bad it gets so crowded, was turned down a few times. Great cocktails, despite the current 15€-and- above- trend in Paris these days. A fav or mine is the Pisco Disco, even has edible glitter in it! Don't miss the mini taqueria at the front.
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Review from Beach L.
12/25/2011
The staff was super nice + friendly and the the food came out very fast.
Review on the food only: Had a craving for mexican so trekked across the city for Mexican. Could not even finish the food. Used to the Mexican food in California, the food was very fusion. The chicken mole tacos were very sweet which was weird. The guacamole was good.
No lettace or tomatos or cheddar cheese on tacos.
The bar in back looked very fun. Would come back for the bar.. but not the food. -
Review from Jessi B.
Paris
9/1/2011 1 Check-in Here
Did I come on an off night?
The guac and the tostadas were very flavorful, but the tortillas tasted weird, like not like a fresh corn tortilla should taste weird, to me. The carne asada was not asada (grilled), and that was a bummer.
But then again, you had me at Negra Modelo.
I'll have to, out of desperation, try again, but probably at lunch time when you don't have carbon copy hipsters ironically sighing down your neck as they watch you eat, waiting for your place at the taco bar. It's a hole in the wall, and there's no glory for those who are claustrophobic. -
Review from Joss P.
1/10/2012
Dig it.
The reviews here speak very correctly of the food. We had some tostadas, quesadillas and tacos. All were simple and more than satisfactory. The tacos came flat-opened which I thought was nice. The price is very steep for the quantity of food and got me wondering how successful "exotic" food joints in Paris are.
When we were done we opened a modest looking door to a scaled-down version of Narnia, which we soon found out was a cocktail bar. Past the excitement, we realized we'd already spent too much on food to indulge in cocktails. A real shame but the reviews here suggest they do a good job so I'd say go for it! -
Review from Stella K.
2/23/2012
If you're looking for Mexican food in Paris, don't bother with this place. I know I'm from Socal, and you can't really compete with that, but I was highly disappointed in this place. Super small , I mean TINY, and too expensive for what you get. The food isn't that bad, but paying 8 euro for two tiny little tacos that will barely put a dent in your stomach is not my cup of tea. I ordered the pork tacos and they were barely the size of the palm of my hand, with only pork and a sprinkle of cilantro. No onions, no salsa, no lime, no cheese. Wtf. The guacamole was okay, but missing cilantro and onion!! No thanks; and for 5 euro for a tiny little cup?? Pass. The chips were pretty good, though, I'll give them that, and they had some spicy chili salsa on the table that added a good kick to my otherwise bland tacos.
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Review from Zeva B.
Spicy salsa, fresh baked tortillas, greasy pork and tangy margaritas -- if you haven't smelled it already, there is a whiff of Mexican fiesta blowing in the air in Paris these days.
Candelaria is a slightly larger, much more hipster version of the first authentic taqueria in Paris, El Nopal. The narrow, brightly lit restaurant has one table, a long counter and an open kitchen where you can watch your soft tacos and crispy tostados being made before your eyes.
Last night the space was packed shoulder to shoulder with people angling their bodies just enough to raise their arms to their face to squeeze the scrumptious food in their mouths. Luckily my group was able to score the only real table there is so we ate more comfortably than most of the people around, but the tight quarters actually make for a totally unique dining experience in Paris, one that is decidedly warmer, more physical and totally un-French.
Past the cramped taqueria shack setting is a white door that leads to a speak-easy like, candelit cocktail bar that's more spacious, but totally cozy and cool. The whole secret bar behind the restaurant concept feels very PDT in NYC.
My pepper-infused tequila cocktail with a fresh cucumber slice was deliciouso. Would have loved if it had been double the size, especially given the 11E price tag, but hey, this is Paris and that's the price of an original cocktail these days.
Poised to become the it-destination of the season, get there fast before the bouncer (yes, there was already a bouncer!) makes the place impossible to get into. -
Review from Mariel C.
Paris
4/28/2011
For all those Californian expats living in Paris, your prayers have finally be answered. A genuine taco bar with REAL hot sauce, REAL salsa and REAL guacomole! What a dream that I live only 3 blocks away. So far I've only tried lunch at the taco place in the front but I'm dying to try the bar in the back as well. I'm guessing it's only open at night!
Only problem is that the lunch part of the location is super small and it's not a great place to come if you have a stroller or even big bag... -
Review from Gail B.
18ème arr., Paris
8/4/2011
We had an impromptu birthday celebration on Tuesday evening for a friend and decided to try Candelaria for cocktails and dinner.
There was no space to eat when we arrived so we went back to have some drinks while waiting for a spot to have dinner. The girl who served us was absolutely perfect and have a continuous smile on her face.
Cocktails were both inventive and tasty - my favourite was the Pisco Disco.
Upon moving to the dining area, we were served immediately, even though they were very busy. Service was again very pleasant and we could not have asked for anything more.
We ordered a mix of their beers as well as food so we cold sample everything.
After eating as my as we could, we went back to the bar for another round of cocktails before heading home.
It was a fun and lively place which I would recommend for an evening among friends ! -
Review from Diana W.
3/30/2011
Finally! A great, authentic taqueria in Paris. The menu at Candelaria is simple: 2 choices of soft taco, 2 choices of hard taco, guac, tequila and three beers. On top of it all, the service is friendly, despite the chaos of serving the lingering, meandering crowd. Get there early to snag a seat, but be sure to eat quick, the bar in the back is calling....
....Beautifully designed, romantic, electric, mysterious, exciting, not to mention the extremely well crafted cocktails! The bar menu isn't overwhelming and offers a cocktail to please everyone, plus a few added brew selections. The punch bowl for 4-6 people is pure genius.
NB: The restaurant is cash only so be prepared, 20€ should get you about two beers and 3 tacos. The bar in the back does, however, take CB.
Bouffe: 10/10 Boisson: 10/10 Ambiance: 10/10 -
Review from Sophie M.
5/24/2011 1 photo
They aren't kidding when they say this place is the size of a van. It's tiny stature is part of the charm though, as everyone huddles together in a communal feasting on authentic mexican cuisine made with fine, fresh ingredients. Bring a big appetite and enough cash to match it.
Don't forget to order popsicles for dessert! Try the spicy mango for an added kick of flavor. -
Review from Gabriel M.
Paris
11/1/2011
Zeva said it all! Went there for the 'Dia de los muertos' event, it was packed, cocktails were very good but way too small, the music is good too (a lot of americana) but they could use a real mix...Fun overall...
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Review from Meg G.
Paris
Just great in every way. Delicious tacos and not to mention salsa. Pop by the lounge for a cocktail after a bite. Or the other way around. Its a hidden treasure.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/26/2011
This place is too cute. I was so excited to discover this. Taco bar up front, and behind is a crafty… Read more »
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Review from Caroline S.
Paris
3/25/2011
Nice spot overall. I didn't get a taco, though they looked really good, but instead went through the secret back door to the hidden bar in the back. It was beautiful, really, with wood panelled walls and soft tea lights everywhere.
The bar tenders were kept busy making eleborate drinks, which meant that the wait was long (not really anyone's fault, but I just wanted a beer and still waited forever).
definitely a bit branchée for the average night out, but the overall concept was cool enough to make that ok. -
Review from Meighan M.
Paris
10/17/2011
A charming (and delicious!) taqueria, backed up by a slightly hidden bar, Candelaria is a welcome find for Mexican fare in Paris.
Start the evening with a selection of tacos and tostadas at the sliver of a counter (or at one of the communal tables), and finish up with a margarita or another inspired cocktail at the bar, found through the unmarked white door out the back. Though the cocktails can be pricey, the atmosphere (of both the taqueria and the bar) are fun and convivial, making Candelaria a gem in this neighborhood. -
Review from Melissa K.
Pantin, Seine-Saint-Denis
5/26/2011
This place is like a mullet haircut - business in the front, party in the back. I say this lovingly and in a good way. Because I would be totally uncool if I didn't like this place. It is indeed the happening hangout spot for the 30 and under crowd.
The restaurant (the business in the front) fits approximately 15 people - tops. And that's with about 5 of them standing. I was seriously impressed with the food. Really outstanding real Mexican (not Tex-Mex or California Mexican) taqueria food. Everything was freshly made. And there were no utensils to speak of. (My favorite part about Mexican food in France: watching French people struggle to eat something without a fork and knife. Clearly I'm a sadist.) Be sure to make copious use of the salsas on the table. And feel free to order, eat, and then order again. The prices are reasonable enough that you won't break the bank having a second round of tacos. The bar (the party in the back) feels quite big and spacious until about 10pm when it is totally packed and really stuffy. The drinks are amazing, but quite pricey. I recommend having a drink at the bar first, before you burn your tastebuds with the food, and then drink cheap beer the rest of the night. Regardless, if you don't want to be waiting in a huge line, go early. And, guard your place in line like a hawk - Parisians are notorious line jumpers.
My one critique - there's no food in the bar. They would be making a killing if they at least sold guacamole or salsa or really anything back there. The drinks are strong and tangy and lend themselves so well to a salty sidekick (besides the one you'll be sitting next to). I get why they don't have anything - no "real" kitchen other than the one in the taqueria upfront. So, here's my suggestion to them (because, of course, the owner is reading my review). Take a cue from Mama Rosa's in NYC and have a traveling guacamole cart. The guacamole maker has a little push-cart that s/he wheels around the bar and makes your guac right in front of you. All of the food prep apparatus (apparati?) are on the cart and the only dirty dishes you produce are the guac bowls. Voilá!Listed in: Vegetarian(-friendly)…, Mexican à Paris
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Review from Lucio h.
5/20/2011
an absolutly charming and lovely place to have tacos or tostadas for lunch...
just behind the taqueria a small and cosy night hidden bar... just drop by and have fun, you will love the team and the ambient of that place!!
let's hang out at night with a date or some few friends...
Fun is never far ;) -
Review from Cat B.
Paris
6/22/2011
Tried for lunch one day with a girlfriend. All I can say is absolutely amazing! The guacamole was so fresh, the tacos inventive and delicious, the hibiscus water refreshing and sublime. Finally a real Mexican restaurant in Paris that gets it right! I cannot wait to return.
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Review from Kelly C.
Paris
4/7/2011 1 Check-in Here
LOVE it - great, hidden bar in back serves unique cocktails.
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Review from Russell R.
Paris
3/17/2011
Two great experiences in one. The taqueria is great. Carnitas were excellent and some excellent homemade sauces. The place is a bit small so be ready to wait or eat standing up. But lets be honest, its tacos, is that really a problem?
After tacos, pass through the hidden door at the back of the restaurant to have an after dinner drink. well designed very interesting space and is sure to be one of the most popular nightlife destinations in the coming weeks. -
Review from Alan V.
5/31/2011
OK, didn't have the food......BUT the bar in the back is a god send. Two New Yorkers walk into a bar....and next thing they know they're having the best bar experience they've had in Paris. Great music, incredible cocktails, and a owner that recommends the best museums in Paris...we're in heaven.
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Review from J.P. H.
4/7/2011
My local Parisian friend took me here during my recent visit. Past the cramped taqueria, you enter this unremarkable looking door in the back and voila, you're in a new space: a pretty nice bar/lounge. My only issue when I was there however, was the lack of ventilation, as it got quite hot ( it was pretty crowded). Overall though, I liked the concept and it was a nice place to hang out for cocktails.
Read more reviews for this business:
French (19)
