4th - 6th
Le Comptoir du Relais - one of the best
The truth is that this place is always full not of tourists but locals. The food is great, and chef Yves Camdeborde dishes up daily simple but delicious classics such as creamy slices of foie gras and chunky prune sauce, perfect pork dishes, duck and wonderful desserts. Allow 70 euros for two for three courses with wine expect to queue. They don't have website.
5 carrefour de l'Odeon 75006 (6th) t: 01 44 27 07 97
La Closerie des Lilas
Yes, this was once the ‘regular for the likes of Hemingway, Gertrude Stein and Henry Millers but I’m not sure they could afford to dine here today. A french institution since 1847. You can choose either a drink at the bar, the bistro and the restaurant. However, allow €220pp for the latter.
www.closeriedeslilas.net
171 Bld du Montparnasse 75006 t : 01 40 51 34 50
Chez Julien
A quaint little bistro for lovers. Owner, Thierry Costes also runs the L'Hotel Amour and has designed a bistro that's all mirrors and red curtains in a former boulangerie. Allow between 60- €80 pp. No website I'm afraid. Recently reviewed in the New York Times as 'a stylish crowd of all ages seeking French classic, foie gras, frogs' legs and Chateaubriand Steak in a retro-chic decor'. Steps away from the St.-Gervais-St.Protias Chruch
1 rue du Pont-Louis-Philippe t: 01 42 78 31 64
Aux Charpentiers
Another traditional Parisian bistro on the left bank. A young crowd but not an overly exciting menu expect 'pâté of duck' or rabbit Terrine. It it reasonably priced with fixed menus ranging from 26€ and wines also reasonably priced. Old world charm and and old world menu, a true 'French' experience.
10, rue Mabillon - 75006 t: 01 43 26 30 05
L'Alcazar
Modern and funky, there's a Mezzanine level for drinks and menus are reasonable from €24 for one course plus a drink. They feature a number of 'musical' nights, Opera singing, jazz etc so check website if you like this sort of thing with your meal. It's a fun, young venue. The Food? I've not dined but you can expect simple dishes such as Fish and Chip, Steak and Chips prepared with a little French flair no doubt as well as a choice of French classics 'Tartate de bouef' or 'Rognons de veau'.
www.alcazar.fr
62, rue Mabillon 75006 t: 01 53 10 19 99
L'Atelier Maître Albert
This is a French 'rôtisserie', created by Guy Savoy who has a number of fine bistro and restaurant across Paris. The prices here are very reasoanbly allow €28 for a two-course dinner. Expect to find a rather large rotisserie of farm fresh chicken usually accompanied with mash potatoes. A very groovy and modern ambiance.
www.ateliermaitrealbert.com
1, rue Maître Albert - 75005 t: 01 56 81 30 01
Chez Benoit
They don't come more traditional and Parisian than this old-world bistro in the 12th. Opened since 1913 it is a favoured by tourists, who sit in the restaurant below, however 'en haut' there are lots of deals being discussed by French business people who have reserved the private dining rooms!
A great menu and service expect very traditional dishes rather than innovative cuisine. This is one of the Alain Ducasse stable of restaurants.
Open daily. Set menu from 38 € or expect 60€ a la carte. You can download the set menu from the site below.
www.benoit-paris.com
20, rue Saint-Martin 75000 t: 01 42 72 25 76
Hélène Darroze@Toustem
A less formal affair to enjoy this michelin star chef's cooking. This hip bistro is more affordable and well located, opposite Notre-Dame. Great reviews in French and English media.
12 rue de l’Hotel Colbert 75005 t: 01 40 51 99 87