On the rooftop of Galeries Lafayette Haussmann, Julien Sebbag is opening Balcon, his rooftop bistro with a panoramic view of Paris
Above Boulevard Haussmann, a new bistro has taken up residence on the rooftops. Balcon, which opened in June 2026 on the rooftop of Galeries Lafayette Haussmann, offers a unique experience: dining on the terrace overlooking the Parisian skyline, in the spirit of a warm and generous canteen. This restaurant surprises guests as much with its setting as with the authenticity of its cuisine.
Julien Sebbag, a self-taught chef high above the rooftops
Behind Balcon is Julien Sebbag, a self-taught chef who has been working in the industry for about ten years. His extensive travels have shaped a cuisine that is sincere, sensitive, and thoughtful—qualities he brings to each of his recipes.
So it was only natural that he would conceive of this bistro perched at the top of Galeries Lafayette Haussmann. For him, the location was a no-brainer: a chance to see Paris in a different light, from above, while staying true to the neighborhood spirit he loves.
“At Balcon, I had the idea of creating a respite from the urban chaos, a place to see the beauty of Paris from a new perspective. I’m in love with this view, and I love neighborhood bistros so much that I imagined one—a little up high—just like me.”
So, Balcon is neither a luxury hotel restaurant nor a fine-dining establishment. It is, above all, a chef-led bistro: straightforward, indulgent, and deeply rooted in French tradition.
A name that says it all
The name “Balcon” was not chosen at random. First and foremost, it evokes the small zinc and wrought-iron balcony—a detail so typical of Parisian facades. It also refers to the rooftop terrace at Galeries Lafayette Haussmann and its unique panoramic view of the capital’s rooftops.
What’s more, this choice perfectly captures the spirit of the place: one foot in tradition, the other looking out at a breathtaking view. Because here, the setting is an integral part of the dining experience.
A seasonal menu rooted in French classics
Balcon’s menu pays homage to the French bistro with just the right touch of modernity. The menu features, for example, a black garlic deviled egg, leeks with elderflower vinaigrette, and beef skirt steak with pepper sauce. These popular dishes are generous in portion without being ostentatious.
Julien Sebbag also places great emphasis on fresh produce, as seasonal ingredients are at the heart of his approach. Asparagus, peas, homemade ratatouille, and heirloom tomatoes are the highlights of a menu designed to celebrate summer.
The “Good Mood” flavors for summer 2026 revolve around freshness and tartness. Notable examples include the bold pairing of blueberries with gravlax, the use of Greek yogurt, and hints of tarragon—all nods to influences from around the world.
Signature dishes that bring a smile to your face
Beyond its reimagined classics, Balcon fully embraces a nostalgic, indulgent spirit. The truffle and Parmesan coquillettes embody this attachment to the cuisine of memory—the kind you eat with your eyes closed.
Similarly, the chocolate-pistachio profiteroles round out the meal on a note of unabashed indulgence. These dishes aren’t meant to impress; they’re meant to touch the heart, and that’s precisely what makes them so memorable on the rooftop of Galeries Lafayette Haussmann.
140 seats on the patio, Monday through Sunday
The rooftop at Galeries Lafayette Haussmann seats 140 guests on its outdoor terrace, which is open Monday through Sunday. This spacious layout fits well with the desired atmosphere: that of a cafeteria with a view, where people come to dine with friends or family alike.
The venue’s capacity allows it to accommodate a large crowd without losing the bistro’s friendly atmosphere. Car Balcon focuses just as much on the warmth of its people as it does on the food. The spirit of communal dining—which guests happily embrace—is ultimately what sets this rooftop apart from just another trendy spot.
The restaurant is located at 25 rue de la Chaussée d’Antin, in Paris’s 9th arrondissement, and is directly accessible from the Galeries Lafayette Haussmann department store. For those already familiar with the view from this iconic terrace, Balcon offers yet another reason to head up to the top. And for everyone else, it’s an invitation to discover Paris from a perspective that few restaurants can offer so effortlessly.
