Portrait of Louis Moysés, founder of Le Boeuf sur le Toit, painted by Suzanne Valadon around 1924

Le Bœuf Sur Le Toit

Le Bœuf sur le Toit Paris: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Le Bœuf sur le Toit is an enduring symbol of Parisian culture, artistry, and nightlife, rooted in the city’s vibrant Roaring Twenties. Originally a modest bar, it transformed into a nexus for avant-garde creativity, drawing figures like Jean Cocteau, Pablo Picasso, and Maurice Ravel. Its very name, inspired by Darius Milhaud’s 1919 ballet, is synonymous with the French phrase “faire un bœuf”—to have a jam session—embodying the spirit of spontaneity and collaboration that defined the Jazz Age in Paris. Today, this historic venue offers a unique blend of Art Deco ambiance, refined gastronomy, and live music, making it a quintessential Parisian experience for history lovers, food enthusiasts, and night owls alike.

This comprehensive guide details everything you need to plan an unforgettable visit: historical background, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, dining, entertainment, and essential tips. All information is sourced from official and reputable resources to ensure accuracy and up-to-date details (Le Bœuf Sur Le Toit official website, Salut Les Garçons, Luxe in the City).

Introduction
Origins and Founding (1920s)
The Artistic Epicenter of Paris
“Faire un Bœuf” and the Jazz Age
Art Deco Heritage and Ambiance
Dining and Culinary Experience
Music, Nightlife, and Tickets
Terrace and Social Scene
Accessibility and Practical Information
Tips for Visitors
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
References

Origins and Founding (1920s)

Le Bœuf sur le Toit’s story begins in the early 1920s, during Paris’s “Années Folles.” The venue’s name, translating to “The Ox on the Roof,” comes from Darius Milhaud’s ballet, itself a homage to Brazilian music and cosmopolitan experimentation (music.allpurposeguru.com). Louis Moyses officially established the club in 1921 at 28 rue Boissy-d’Anglas, relocating his popular Bar Gaya to accommodate the city’s creative elite (musicalgeography.org).

The Artistic Epicenter of Paris

From its inception, Le Bœuf sur le Toit was more than a bar—it was the creative heartbeat of Paris. Jean Cocteau’s regular presence helped shape the club’s identity, attracting a dazzling clientele: Picasso, Francis Picabia, Erik Satie, Maurice Ravel, Coco Chanel, Christian Dior, Sergei Diaghilev, and more. The space became a crucible for artistic exchange, where boundaries between disciplines blurred and collaborations flourished (boeufsurletoit.com, musicalgeography.org).

“Faire un Bœuf” and the Jazz Age

Le Bœuf sur le Toit played a pivotal role in shaping Paris’s Jazz Age. The phrase “faire un bœuf”—to have a jam session—originated here, reflecting the club’s tradition of spontaneous, late-night musical improvisations. These sessions drew jazz musicians, classical composers, and dancers, fostering a modern, cosmopolitan atmosphere. The club’s pianist, Jean Wiéner, and saxophonist Vance Lowry set the tone for the Parisian jazz scene, while the décor, adorned with works by Picasso and Picabia, enhanced the venue’s avant-garde spirit (bachtrack.com, musicalgeography.org).

Art Deco Heritage and Ambiance

Le Bœuf sur le Toit’s interiors are a testament to Art Deco elegance. The 2020 redesign by Alexis Mabille, in collaboration with the Moma Group, highlights marquetry wood, gold-leaf accents, and graphic lines, blending vintage glamour with contemporary comfort (boeufsurletoit.com, Luxe in the City). This immersive atmosphere evokes the venue’s historic golden age, making every visit a sensory journey through time.

Dining and Culinary Experience

The culinary program at Le Bœuf sur le Toit is a celebration of French gastronomy, with a modern twist. Under chef Jean-Pierre Vigato’s guidance, the menu features classics like escargots de Bourgogne, tartare de bœuf charolais, and tête de veau cocotte, alongside seafood platters and confit of lamb shoulder (Luxe in the City, Visit Paris Region). Desserts are crafted with Pierre Hermé, offering signature creations such as the Ispahan and 2000 Feuilles praliné noisette. The inventive cocktail list, including the Les Rhumbs with Moët & Chandon, complements the dining experience. Vegetarian and seasonal options are available, ensuring inclusivity.

Music, Nightlife, and Tickets

Music is the core of Le Bœuf sur le Toit’s identity. The club hosts nightly live performances spanning jazz, cabaret, chanson, and musical theatre, continuing the tradition of legendary artists like Edith Piaf and Charles Trenet (Luxe in the City). The intimate setting fosters close connection between artists and audience, while special themed evenings and jam sessions keep the spirit of improvisation alive.

Ticket Information:

General admission to the brasserie and bar is typically open to walk-ins.
Special events and concerts may require advance tickets—check the official website for current pricing and availability.
Reservations are highly recommended for dinner and live music nights, especially on weekends.

The venue’s terrace is a summer highlight, offering heated seating and a convivial open-air ambiance. While the views are urban, the terrace provides a relaxed setting for drinks, dining, and lively conversation (lacarte.menu). Inside, flexible spaces—including a mezzanine salon—accommodate private parties, corporate events, and festive group outings.

Accessibility and Practical Information

Address: 34 Rue du Colisée, 75008 Paris
Metro: Saint-Philippe du Roule or George V
Opening Hours: Monday–Saturday, 19:00–02:00; closed Sundays (Nox Agency)
Accessibility: Wheelchair access is available in main areas. Contact the venue for specific needs.
Dress Code: Smart casual or elegant evening wear is recommended.
Reservations: Strongly advised—book via the official website or by phone.
Parking: Nearby parking is available at Elysées Ponthieu Automobiles.

Tips for Visitors

Book Early: Secure your table in advance for dinner or live music nights.
Arrive on Time: Performances often begin early in the evening.
Engage with Staff: They offer valuable recommendations and historical insights.
Dress to Match the Ambiance: Elevate your experience with chic attire.
Explore Nearby: Pair your evening with a stroll along the Champs-Élysées or a visit to the nearby Place de la Concorde.
Photography: Discreet photos are welcome, but respect performers and fellow guests.

Nearby Attractions

Le Bœuf sur le Toit’s central location places you steps from Paris’s most celebrated sites:

Champs-Élysées
Arc de Triomphe
Grand Palais
Petit Palais
Place de la Concorde
Louvre Museum (a short walk)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Le Bœuf sur le Toit’s opening hours?
A: Monday to Saturday, 19:00–02:00; closed Sundays.

Q: Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
A: General entry is open, but special events or concerts may require advance purchase.

Q: Is Le Bœuf sur le Toit wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the main areas are accessible.

Q: How can I make a reservation?
A: Reserve on the official website or call +33 1 53 93 65 55.

Q: Is there a dress code?
A: Smart casual or elegant evening wear is preferred.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: No official tours, but the staff and online resources provide historical context.

Conclusion

Le Bœuf sur le Toit is more than a restaurant or music hall—it is a living monument to Paris’s creative and social heritage. Its Art Deco setting, refined cuisine, and vibrant music scene invite visitors to experience the enduring spirit of the City of Light. For the most rewarding visit, check current hours, event schedules, and reservation details on the official website. Download the Audiala app for curated Paris guides and real-time updates, and immerse yourself in one of the city’s most storied venues—a place where history, artistry, and celebration converge (Bonjour Paris, Nox Agency).