BEST CABARET IN PARIS
If you’re looking for the best cabaret in Paris, we’ve got you covered. We’ve created a detailed and useful FAQ (below) and identified the top 3 cabarets which deliver the most entertaining shows set in comfortable venues. We understand you have doubts and may not even understand what a cabaret show actually is which is why we’ve broken down everything for you.
The first thin you need to know is that YOU CANNOT LEAVE PARIS without seeing a cabaret show. Why? Because cabaret shows are the most unique experience you can have in Paris! Sure you have to visit the Eiffel Tower but these shows are a chance to witness a cultural experience that was born and raised in Paris and influenced the world over including Broadway shows in the USA.
What’s important to know is that cabaret shows are not sex shows, nor are they burlesque however they can feature some burlesque elements because there’s a pinch of nudity (topless only). Having said this, cabaret shows in Paris are considered “open to all ages” since, in spite of the minor nudity, the shows mainly consist of singing and dancing acts in addition to humorous acts and acrobatics *See our extensive FAQ below for more details.
As passionate cabaret enthusiasts, we have attended over 20 shows and handpicked the top four cabarets in Paris which are guaranteed to impress because they consistently deliver outstanding performances and offer comfortable seating as well as food and drink options. Whatever your preference, we are certain you will find a show you will love and we have narrowed down the list to only the TOP 3 best cabaret in Paris to ensure you won’t be disappointed (scroll down below for a useful comparison!).
1) LE CRAZY HORSE
Located a stone’s throw from the Champs-Elysees and Eiffel Tower, Le Crazy Horse is famous for producing the most original and captivating cabaret shows in Paris, which is why they are the current champions of cabaret. Their music, dancing, and venue are all top brass, and they also have the most stunning girls who are cheeky in every sense of the word.
As masters of reinvention, Le Crazy Horse ceaselessly rejuvenates their shows throughout the year, consistently delivering awe-inspiring experiences that leave spectators spellbound. Their secret to success? Unwavering dedication to excellence in every performance, each and every time.
Enter a realm of humour, sensuality, and spectacular visuals with Le Crazy Horse’s current show, “Totally Crazy.” This tantalising fusion of classic and contemporary acts features a kaleidoscope of dazzling lighting effects and ingeniously choreographed numbers that tease and tantalise, keeping you on the edge of your seat. While there’s a hint of nudity, it’s tastefully presented, ensuring a delightfully sexy and unforgettable evening.
You can watch a show for 139 euros or 159 with a half bottle of champagne, which is a truly a great deal. If you’re looking for something a bit more special then consider the Show + Backstage experience for 295 euros. This option includes a show in VIP seating with half a bottle of champagne + a one hour private tour of the cabaret and the backstage area presented by one of the dancers, and two glasses of bubbly along with petit fours (snacks) – an unforgettable experience perfect for a birthday or special occasion.
2) MOULIN ROUGE
Step right up and prepare to be dazzled by the legendary Moulin Rouge, a world-famous cabaret that captivates hearts and imaginations across the globe! Although the original building tragically succumbed to flames in 1915, today’s incarnation of the iconic venue continues to enchant visitors with its nostalgic allure.
Swap risqué for resplendent at the Moulin Rouge, where the spectacular performances pay homage to Broadway-style dance numbers, ensuring a comfortable experience for more sensitive audience members. With only a hint of tasteful nudity, the captivating shows leave you enthralled and yearning for more.
Currently gracing the stage is “La Revue Féerie,” a mesmerising four-act extravaganza that promises to whisk you away on an unforgettable journey. Begin with a jaunt through the glamorous Belle Époque era in Paris, then set sail for swashbuckling adventures with a pirate-themed spectacle. Marvel at the beautifully choreographed circus acts before concluding your voyage with a riveting retrospective of the Moulin Rouge’s storied history, from its inception to the present day.
The Moulin Rouge currently offers a dinner + show option for 245 euros among which is a great deal considering you will be entertained while you dining in their lovely tables. One of the best reasons to book a dinner and a show is to be sitting in the main room where you will be close to the stage and immersed in the show! This is a 4 hour show folks so be sure to check out our FAQ below!
3) PARADIS LATIN
Located in the Latin Quarter, Paradis Latin has come back with vengeance after a takeover in 2018 by French business mogul, Walter Butler. It’s housed in one of the oldest theatres in Paris, originally founded in 1803 and only became a cabaret in the 1970s. Whatever the case, we love what they have done with not only the venue itself but also the performances. Singers, dancers and acrobats dazzle audiences during their famous L’Oiseau de Paradis (Bird of Paradise) show which starts at 80 euros. It’s a 90 minute tale about a waiter turned performer and while most showtimes are in the evening they often have shows during the day. There are all kinds of options such as show alone or show with drinks or show + full course meal by Michelin starred chef, Guy Savoy. There is some nudity (topless women) and sensual scenes but most of the performance is a cross between circus acrobatics and Broadway singing.
Their other show, Mon Premier Cabaret (my first cabaret), is a less saucy show similar to a Cirque du Soleil performance and suitable for families. It’s colourful, funny and made up of many micro performances that are appropriate for all ages.
Note: this show runs only three times a week and takes place during the afternoon.
COMPARISON CHART
Le Crazy Horse |
Moulin Rouge |
Paradis Latin |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Location | Near Champs-Elysées | In the heart of Montmartre | In the Latin Quarter |
| Price Range (Standard Show) | €115 – €295 | €240 (dinner + show) | Starts at €80 |
| Unique Selling Point | Original, captivating shows with reinvention | Legendary, world-famous, nostalgic allure | Historic venue with modern performances |
| Show Duration | Varies | Approximately 1.45 hours | About 90 minutes |
| Family Friendliness | Suitable from age 10 | Suitable from age 6 | Offers family-friendly shows |
| Dining Options | Show with champagne option | Dinner + show combo | Show with full-course meal option |
| Dress Code | Appropriate attire i.e. business casual | Appropriate attire i.e. business casual | Appropriate attire i.e. business casual |
| Accessibility for Guests with Disabilities | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Special Packages | Show + Backstage experience | N/A | Show with drinks or full-course meal |
| Signature Show | “Totally Crazy” | “La Revue Féerie” | “L’Oiseau de Paradis” & “Mon Premier Cabaret” |
| Historical Significance | Modern leader in cabaret | Original building from 1889 | Founded in 1803, cabaret since 1970s |
| Languages Spoken | French, English | French, English | French, English |
| Cancellation Policy | Flexible with Tiqets (see links above) | Flexible with Tiqets (see links above) | Flexible with Tiqets (see links above) |
| Recommended Arrival Time | At least 30 minutes prior | At least 30 minutes prior | At least 30 minutes prior |
| Photography Policy | Not allowed | Not allowed however professional photographer available | Not allowed |
FAQ:
Here are the top questions we have been asked about cabaret in Paris. We hope this addresses all your questions!
SHOULD I MAKE A RESERVATION FOR A CABARET SHOW?
Absolutely. Cabaret shows in Paris are quite popular, so it’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance, especially for the more renowned venues.
WHAT IS THE DRESS CODE FOR CABARET SHOWS IN PARIS?
Most cabaret venues in Paris enforce a dress code that calls for ‘elegant attire’. It is best to avoid wearing jeans, sneakers, or casual clothing. Instead, opt for smart outfits to match the ambiance of the venue – that doesn’t mean suit and tie but perhaps a dress shirt for men and no trainers/sneakers.
WHAT LANGUAGES ARE SPOKEN DURING CABARET SHOWS?
All staff speak English however cabaret venues typically use both French and English during the performance in order to cater to a diverse audience. It is in France after all and everyone should make an effort to learn 🙂 Language barriers should not be a concern since the performances focus on song, dance, and captivating visual effects.
IS IT WORTH BOOKING A DINNER AND SHOW COMBO?
We recommend considering a dinner and show combo or at least pairing your show with drinks. However, we understand that this option may not suit everyone’s preferences. You can also plan a fun night out by dining out (or drinks) before or after the cabaret show.
CAN YOU SUGGEST SOME DINING AND DRINK OPTIONS NEAR POPULAR CABARET VENUES?
Near Le Crazy Horse: For dining, consider the nearby Relais de l’Entrecote steak house or Maison d’Aubrac, which is about a 5-minute walk away (check out shortlist of the best steak in Paris). Note that Relais de l’Entrecote operates on a first-come, first-served basis and does not accept reservations. For drinks, the upscale area surrounding Le Crazy Horse offers options such as the Bristol Hotel bar, the Kleber bar at the Penninsula, the pub-like Sir Winston, or the cocktail-focused Le Botaniste.
Near the Moulin Rouge: For those attending a show at the Moulin Rouge, nearby dining options include Bouillon Pigalle and Creperie Broceliande. The Moulin Rouge is also located in the trendy SoPi area, which boasts a variety of bars, such as Dirty Dicks cocktail bar, as well as craft beer spots and burger joints like PNY. These options tend to be more affordable compared to those in the Le Crazy Horse area.
Near Paradis Latin: Just a short walk from the Paradis Latin cabaret, you can find dining options like Les Papilles, La Petite Perigourdine (for southewest French food), Le Vent d’Armor (great for seafood!), and the Rotisserie d’Argent, which is part of the world famous Tour d’Argent but serves more affordable bistro fare, including excellent roast chicken. For a more casual option, try Chez Gladines, a Basque restaurant known for its hearty portions and friendly ambiance. For drinks, you can visit Le Comptoir du Panthéon, a popular cocktail bar with a lovely terrace, or the modern cocktail bar called the Raton Buveur. Also, the British pub, The Bombardier, is close by.
Near the Lido: Located on the famous Avenue des Champs-Élysées, the Lido cabaret is surrounded by numerous dining and drinking options such as the L’Entrecote de Paris (famous for steak and fries), Le Fouquet’s, a renowned Parisian brasserie, is a great choice for a luxurious dining experience and Le Clarence, also fine dining. For something mid range, try Le Sens Unique, which serves modern French, and for even more casual experience, try Baroche which serves fusion food in a more micro brewery type setting. Nearby drink options include Gentlemen 1919 (our all time favourite!), O’Sullivans Irish pub, and some of the hotel bars, such as Le Bar du Lancaster, an elegant hotel bar offering a sophisticated atmosphere (also serve delicious food!).
ARE CABARET SHOWS SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN?
This all depends on your own culture, beliefs and norms as well as the age of your children but we believe it wouldn’t be wise to bring any small children under the age of 10 to a show. Having said this, cabaret venues do allow children, the Moulin Rouge from age 6 and Le Crazy Horse from age 10 as long as accompanied by parents. The Moulin Rouge show is definitely more family friendly compared to Le Crazy Horse but only Paradis Latin offers a show designed with children in mind.
HOW LONG DOES A TYPICAL CABARET SHOW LAST?
A typical cabaret show in Paris lasts for about 1.5 to 2 hours, for example, a Moulin Rouge show is 1.45 hours. This duration allows you to fully immerse yourself in the captivating experience while still leaving time to explore other attractions or enjoy a night out in the city.
ARE THERE ACCESSIBLE SEATING OPTIONS FOR GUESTS WITH DISABILITIES?
Cabaret venues in Paris offer accessible seating options for guests with disabilities, including wheelchair accessibility. The challenge lies more with transport, as you will need to book a vehicle with appropriate capabilities in advance.
WHAT IS THE CANCELLATION AND RESCHEDULING POLICY?
We recommend and link to Tiqets which has one of the best ticketing agents. You can cancel or reschedule until 23:59 on the day before your visit. Phew, what a relief!
WHAT TIME SHOULD I ARRIVE FOR THE CABARET SHOW?
It is recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled showtime. This allows you to comfortably find your seats, order drinks or snacks, and settle in before the performance begins. That said, we recommend showing up a tad earlier so you a) get the best seats according to your reservation type and b) have enough time to take it all in.
CAN I TAKE PHOTOS OR RECORD VIDEOS DURING THE PERFORMANCE?
It is strictly forbidden to take photos or record videos during cabaret shows in Paris. This policy ensures the privacy of the performers and the enjoyment of the audience. However, venues like the Moulin Rouge offer photos by a professional photographer.
IS THERE A COAT CHECK OR LUGGAGE STORAGE AVAILABLE AT THE VENUE?
All cabaret venues provide a coat check service where you can securely store your coats and small bags. Bags are not allowed within the theatre, so be sure to leave your shopping bags at your hotel or rental apartment.
WHAT IS THE HISTORY OF THE CABARET?
HOW OLD ARE THESE SHOWS?
Parisian cabaret started in the mid 1800s and has steadily evolved from their 19th century form when they started as rowdy sing alongs in the taverns of the bohemian Montmartre district. The first dedicated cabaret venues, Le Chat Noir (closed in 1897), and the Lapin Agile (still running!), were much more intimate and simple shows. The landscape changed when the Moulin Rouge launched in 1889, with its over the top productions. The Lido came along in the early 20th century and in recent history Le Crazy Horse has become the lead player.
WHY SHOULD WE TRUST YOUR GUIDANCE?
We are a group of expats living in Paris and love cabaret. We’ve been to every show and have been recommending to family and friends for over ten years so we know where to go for the best cabaret in Paris. We understand the needs and wishes of a wide array of cultures and backgrounds and we are good at recommending things other people like 🙂 We are sure you will enjoy the best cabaret in Paris by simply following our guide.
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