I had a conference in Paris in 2003 and our local guide took us to this place…what an awesome time! If you’re one of those creatures who demands “personal space”…do not put yourself through the agony (laughing). If you don’t mind “rubbing elbows” and meeting new folks from all around the world…THIS IS YOUR PLACE!
Paris imposes a tax on wine in glasses..so this savvy entrepeneur serves the wine in…baby bottles (biberon)! It’s a must experience!!!

Left by Harry on November 17th, 2007

I was in Paris for a week for new years (2007/2008), and i had Le Refuge des Fondues in my schedule before i went from the reviews i read about this place over the internet…. it is an amazing place… we had to squeeze it in our schedule one more time during the week!!!

we met alot of people from all around the world!!! and the people managing this place are so funny!!! typical french with the arrogant attitude!!!

an amazing must try experience!!!! i definitely recommend it to anyone going to Paris!

Left by Nadine Odat on January 6th, 2008

I agree with the above statements about this restaurant - so much fun. I went with my husband and son and ended up chatting with an American couple for hours and laughing until our sides were sore. We had the cheese fondue - you have the choice of meat or cheese. if you go, don’t forget a marker - you’re supposed to write on the walls which are covered with patrons from all over the world. We’re going back to Paris this summer and will return to Le Refuge - will try the meat fondue this time.

Left by Micheline Pride on March 13th, 2008

I used to frequent this place with friends while studying in Versailles in ‘98 and I’m so glad to hear it’s still there(hopefully forever!). Great place to meet locals - up close and personal - and have a fabulous time. Speak a little French and the Owners will treat you like locals too. Even though it’s recommended by “Lets Go”, it’s not just a place for poor college students. I can’t wait to go back some day, I still talk about it after 10 years!

Left by Beth C on July 6th, 2008

Wasn’t worth the hassle or the price honestly.

I read these reviews and some others and got the impression it would be a fun place to try out. The fondue itself wasn’t that good…it came inexplicable watery with hard clumps of melted and remelted cheese. If the place catered to a French audience, they wouldn’t be serving things with such little care. Aside from that the servers were openly creepy with the ladies I was with.

There are two benches on either side of the restaurant. If there are any girls in your group, expect they will be directed to walk over the table while one of the servers holds your hands and possibly makes comments while checking you out. If you don’t speak French, you might not notice or worry too much about the upskirt peevery though. When I pointed out to the server that it was a bit much, he just mocked me and invited two guys from an adjacent seat to oogle the next girl in our group he was directing over the table.

Might not be fun to bring a date there, maybe more fun for a group of guys given the predominant crowd of young girls in skirts when I was there. Mostly just a tourist scene, so the service goes beyond the call of duty with living up to a reputation for being terrible. Not the only place in town where you can get wine in a baby bottle either, and lots more options for fondue.

Left by Jean on July 30th, 2008

This place was just AMAZZIINNNG!!!!!!
the atmosphere is great, the food- great.
I definately recommend it.

Left by Maria on July 30th, 2008

I first saw the restaurant around 1990 on a trip to Paris and have had a lot of fun. If you come inside you think it’s totally booked out. But the maitre will find a place for you to sit - I’ll guarantee.
You sit down and you’ll never complain small seats in an airplain ! So you instantly get contact to the people around and will have a great evening.
In 2004 I was again in Paris and here again - nothing changed. It’s a really great place to go !

Left by Michael Klein on October 7th, 2008