Bœuf sur le toit

Just off the Champs-Élysées and a stone’s throw from the Arc de triomphe, the party is in full swing. Here, the evening vibe has nothing to do with strobe lights or DJ sets, just a festive atmosphere that oozes with irreverent panache… Welcome to the Bœuf sur le Toit, the historic hotspot of the roaring twenties that remains, even today, the haunt of gourmets and fans of Parisian-style entertainment. Get into the swing!

A jam session with Cocteau

Since the legendary Bœuf sur le Toit was created in 1922, it has always been an icon of Paris nightlife. You’d be forgiven for thinking the name (which means ‘the Ox on the Roof’) was inspired by a culinary speciality from the local region. Nothing of the sort! Darius Milhaud, the composer, decided to write a French version of a tune he had enjoyed during his travels to Brazil, O Boi no Telhado. This inspired Jean Cocteau to create a ballet which was performed on a regular basis at a superb cabaret venue in the 8th arrondissement. The Bœuf sur le Toit was born.

At the time, the Boeuf sur le Toit was a key haunt for artists as well as illustrious intellectuals of the interwar years. Among other personalities, it attracted the likes of Coco Chanel, Picasso, Hemingway, Erik Satie and, later, Léo Ferré and Charles Trenet. At a time when the Parisian nightlife was all about jazz, singers and musicians would engage in famous musical jousting matches that continued into the early hours. Those spontaneous concerts gave rise to a well-known French expression, “faire un bœuf”, meaning “to do a jam session”…

A trip to the roaring twenties

So the Bœuf sur le Toit is a show venue. From the daily line-up of mainly cabaret acts, musicals and live music, you’re sure to find something you'll enjoy feasting your eyes on… As well as your tastebuds! The menu revolves around bistro culture, featuring seafood platters, frogs’ legs and confit of lamb shoulder. There’s even something for gourmet vegetarians, such as truffle macaroni and confit of vegetables.

Want to prolong the pleasure? A few minutes away from the Bœuf sur le toit, at the inimitable Crazy Horse, you can see the ultimate Parisian show full of sensuality. To experience more crazy gourmet adventures, check out our selection of restaurants in the Paris Region.