Latest reviews for Restaurants in Paris, France

Anahi - �9 Euro charge for water! Don't get ripped off ! by matt_poot

matt_poot — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 13:53:51 +0000

Review by matt_poot

Rating: 1.00

Turned up at 8pm only 2 others were there but it soon livened up on the Sat night. best time is from 9pm I'd say. Friendly helpful staff (especially the waiter from Buenos Aires) although another did not know what part of the cow ' faux fillet' was cut from!! Astounding considering that this was an Argentinian food restaurant - you'd think they would know what the different cuts were? The food was delicious. We had lovely fresh guacomole (home made) with flat toast (like pitta) but made with less yeast which we shared Â£10 and was enough for 2 sharing. My girlfriend had the faux fillet for main course Â£30 - lovely piece of steak (french cow) should be for this price! and I had the rather measly portion of only 2 chiorizo susages for Â£14. (â¬16) the most expensive sausages I will ever order. That was all it was. 2 bangers on a bread board? I had to order a green salad â¬7 to fill me up, but luckily it was huge - enough for 2 to share - good job though - it had a lovely french dressing, jullienne cut red onions and baby tomatoes. Perfect. I learnt that to get anything 'with' a main,(like rice or corn on the cob etc) you'd have to order something that was over â¬24 euros. Wine was lovely (if a little immature - even for a bottle of Argentinian Syrah at 14%vol 2006 - It lacked complexity in the finish but packed a punch in terms of flavour - Oaky tones, sandlewood and chocolate were all present - It was a little overpriced at â¬40 approx. There was room for pudding - basically was a sweet traditional Argentine dessert of caramel and whisked milk, cream sugar and egg. Nice (consistency rather like creme Caramel) â¬11 approx. The only problem came when we got the bill. It was â¬122.00 That seemed alot - we added it all up and found that they had charged us â¬9 euros for the bottled water. That's W.A.T.E.R! the most abundant liquid on the planet and priced at over 10,000 times the actual cost it was to source. I refused to pay for the water (I should have known better and not ordered it - I didnt look at the price on the menu and who would?? The waitress said I should have looked. I said who does (for water anyway) I demanded to see the manager - but she wasnt there. I said ok. I will pay the bill minus the cost of the water. Inn the end they got their â¬122.00 but NO TIP (which was basically around â¬12 anyway so shame the waiting staff had to suffer as a result of the managements decision to extort money from unsuspecting diners. You have been warned!Turned up at 8pm only 2 others were there but it soon livened up on the Sat night. best time is from 9pm I'd say. Friendly helpful staff (especially the waiter from Buenos Aires) although another did not know what part of the cow ' faux fillet' was cut from!! Astounding considering that this was an Argentinian food restaurant - you'd think they would know what the different cuts were? The food was delicious. We had lovely fresh guacomole (home made) with flat toast (like pitta) but made with less yeast which we shared Â£10 and was enough for 2 sharing. My girlfriend had the faux fillet for main course Â£30 - lovely piece of steak (french cow) should be for this price! and I had the rather measly portion of only 2 chiorizo susages for Â£14. (â¬16) the most expensive sausages I will ever order. That was all it was. 2 bangers on a bread board? I had to order a green salad â¬7 to fill me up, but luckily it was huge - enough for 2 to share - good job though - it had a lovely french dressing, jullienne cut red onions and baby tomatoes. Perfect. I learnt that to get anything 'with' a main,(like rice or corn on the cob etc) you'd have to order something that was over â¬24 euros. Wine was lovely (if a little immature - even for a bottle of Argentinian Syrah at 14%vol 2006 - It lacked complexity in the finish but packed a punch in terms of flavour - Oaky tones, sandlewood and chocolate were all present - It was a little overpriced at â¬40 approx. There was room for pudding - basically was a sweet traditional Argentine dessert of caramel and whisked milk, cream sugar and egg. Nice (consistency rather like creme Caramel) â¬11 approx. The only problem came when we got the bill. It was â¬122.00 That seemed alot - we added it all up and found that they had charged us â¬9 euros for the bottled water. That's W.A.T.E.R! the most abundant liquid on the planet and priced at over 10,000 times the actual cost it was to source. I refused to pay for the water (I should have known better and not ordered it - I didnt look at the price on the menu and who would?? The waitress said I should have looked. I said who does (for water anyway) I demanded to see the manager - but she wasnt there. I said ok. I will pay the bill minus the cost of the water. Inn the end they got their â¬122.00 but NO TIP (which was basically around â¬12 anyway so shame the waiting staff had to suffer as a result of the managements decision to extort money from unsuspecting diners. You have been warned!

Bofinger Restaurant & Brasserie - Terrible! by calvinheath

calvinheath — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 14:45:52 +0000

Review by calvinheath

Rating: 1.00

Tags: french, romantic, restaurant

We were so excited to be able to eat at one of Paris oldest brasseries. I had booked a month in advance and requested a seat near the glass dome downstairs.
We also made sure we were dressed nicely for the occasion, but on entering the restaurant this quickly became apparent wasn't enough.
Like many other reviews I have seen, we were quickly and rudely ushered up the stairs by the maitre'd and sat in the corner of a backroom away from the fashionable Parisians downstairs. This, we quickly realised was the "tourist room".
The waiter eventually gave us some menus after about 10 minutes of waiting and then ignored us for another 10 without offering us any drinks or the wine menu.
As the menu was written entirely in French I wanted to ask a couple of questions about some items to have them translated so I knew what I was ordering. Again when asked, the waiter was rude and impatient.
I almost walked out when another waitress came over to serve the wine. She had the nerve to actually shout at me for not "tasting it properly" saying to swirl the glass first. The whole room of other diners turned round to stare at this point causing embarrassment for me and my girlfriend.
The wine glasses themselves also had to be changed as they were filthy as was my girlfriendâ¬"s cutlery. All the dinner plates were scratched and chipped.
After an unmemorable first course of foie gras pate that was just thrown on a plate with a sprig of parsley we were served a crab lasagne that although was tasty, was also full of crab shell so every other bite was like eating sand.
After this we couldn't wait to leave, so after eventually being presented with a hefty bill of â¬75 imagine our surprise to see a queue of people out of the door waiting to get a table!
We then realised that they seem to live off the hype of being the "oldest brassiere in Paris" so they don't need to care about your customers, people will flock here anyway.
We decided that the only way youâ¬"re going to get good food and service in here is if youâ¬"re a French president, a film star, or a fashionable Parisian with more money than sense.
I could have paid half the amount for a much better pub meal in the UK, with better service.
This brasserie was, I thought, built upon the tradition of reasonably priced good food and service.
Sadly it seems that in this case the traditions have been long forgotten.
We were so excited to be able to eat at one of Paris oldest brasseries. I had booked a month in advance and requested a seat near the glass dome downstairs.
We also made sure we were dressed nicely for the occasion, but on entering the restaurant this quickly became apparent wasn't enough.
Like many other reviews I have seen, we were quickly and rudely ushered up the stairs by the maitre'd and sat in the corner of a backroom away from the fashionable Parisians downstairs. This, we quickly realised was the "tourist room".
The waiter eventually gave us some menus after about 10 minutes of waiting and then ignored us for another 10 without offering us any drinks or the wine menu.
As the menu was written entirely in French I wanted to ask a couple of questions about some items to have them translated so I knew what I was ordering. Again when asked, the waiter was rude and impatient.
I almost walked out when another waitress came over to serve the wine. She had the nerve to actually shout at me for not "tasting it properly" saying to swirl the glass first. The whole room of other diners turned round to stare at this point causing embarrassment for me and my girlfriend.
The wine glasses themselves also had to be changed as they were filthy as was my girlfriendâ¬"s cutlery. All the dinner plates were scratched and chipped.
After an unmemorable first course of foie gras pate that was just thrown on a plate with a sprig of parsley we were served a crab lasagne that although was tasty, was also full of crab shell so every other bite was like eating sand.
After this we couldn't wait to leave, so after eventually being presented with a hefty bill of â¬75 imagine our surprise to see a queue of people out of the door waiting to get a table!
We then realised that they seem to live off the hype of being the "oldest brassiere in Paris" so they don't need to care about your customers, people will flock here anyway.
We decided that the only way youâ¬"re going to get good food and service in here is if youâ¬"re a French president, a film star, or a fashionable Parisian with more money than sense.
I could have paid half the amount for a much better pub meal in the UK, with better service.
This brasserie was, I thought, built upon the tradition of reasonably priced good food and service.
Sadly it seems that in this case the traditions have been long forgotten.

Chez Gabrielle - Great food and wine by joemochan

joemochan — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 11:21:24 +0000

Review by joemochan

Rating: 5.00

Phone: +33 1 43802301

Tags: romantic, french, good value

Lovely little restaurant with fantastic food and wine, a bit of an undiscovered gem and it doesn't feel pretentious or cost the earth.
The steak is amazing as are the scallops and the friendly lady that runs it can always recommend a good wine and speaks excellent english. I've been three times this year during work trips and have had an excellent evening each time but I'd definitely take my partner if we ever visit.Lovely little restaurant with fantastic food and wine, a bit of an undiscovered gem and it doesn't feel pretentious or cost the earth.
The steak is amazing as are the scallops and the friendly lady that runs it can always recommend a good wine and speaks excellent english. I've been three times this year during work trips and have had an excellent evening each time but I'd definitely take my partner if we ever visit.

L'Alivi - Restaurant to be avoided by bell2roma

bell2roma — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 10:48:08 +0000

Review by bell2roma

Rating: 1.00

Phone: 01 48 87 90 20

Website: http://www.restaurant-alivi.com/

Tags: romantic, french, expensive

We have been waiting for our food more than 1 hour. They refused to speak english with us (in paris they only speak france!) and they said tha it's normal to wait for 1 hour, while clients arrived after where eating the same food ordered by us! I was ready to pay food and drink consumed so far, but they forced us to have all the food and pay for all.
We have been waiting for our food more than 1 hour. They refused to speak english with us (in paris they only speak france!) and they said tha it's normal to wait for 1 hour, while clients arrived after where eating the same food ordered by us! I was ready to pay food and drink consumed so far, but they forced us to have all the food and pay for all.

Café Tresor - Great place to eat and be seen by secondexpress

secondexpress — Sun, 26 Jul 2009 11:16:25 +0000

Review by secondexpress

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 01 42 71 35 17

Tags: lively, french, good value

Tucked down a side street, it would be easy to miss CafÃ© Tresor. It always seems to be busy, and sometimes it can be hard to get a table â¬ however, it's well worth it. The food here is great, if a little bit pricier than some of the other restaurants nearby. The interior is lavishly decorated, and there's a feeling that this is a place where people want to be seen.

If I'd written this report last year, I would have given the place 5 stars for service. We were treated so well that we went back again the next year, but unfortunately this time we struggled to get anyone's attention and service was lacklustre, almost rude at times. Thankfully the food was every bit as good as the previous visit. On the night we visited, it was very busy so hopefully the service was a one off â¬ I'll certainly be happy to go back and find out.Tucked down a side street, it would be easy to miss CafÃ© Tresor. It always seems to be busy, and sometimes it can be hard to get a table â¬ however, it's well worth it. The food here is great, if a little bit pricier than some of the other restaurants nearby. The interior is lavishly decorated, and there's a feeling that this is a place where people want to be seen.

If I'd written this report last year, I would have given the place 5 stars for service. We were treated so well that we went back again the next year, but unfortunately this time we struggled to get anyone's attention and service was lacklustre, almost rude at times. Thankfully the food was every bit as good as the previous visit. On the night we visited, it was very busy so hopefully the service was a one off â¬ I'll certainly be happy to go back and find out.

La Famille - What a nice surprise by Gavroche

Gavroche — Sun, 16 Mar 2008 20:18:31 +0000

Review by Gavroche

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 01 42 52 11 12

Tags: french, expensive, romantic

What a surprising cuisine!
That is the first thing thst comes to my mind!

My dessert: Vache qui rit (type of Neufchatel cheese) with beetroot and pear juice!! DELICIOUS!
Small restaurant but warm athmosphere, you feel like home. Service is good and the food is so unique that you just can't wait going back to be surprised once more time!What a surprising cuisine!
That is the first thing thst comes to my mind!

My dessert: Vache qui rit (type of Neufchatel cheese) with beetroot and pear juice!! DELICIOUS!
Small restaurant but warm athmosphere, you feel like home. Service is good and the food is so unique that you just can't wait going back to be surprised once more time!

Chartier Restaurant - No warning: Chartier has CLOSED until Jul.1, 09 by forg88

forg88 — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 23:42:20 +0000

Review by forg88

Rating: 4.00

Tags: cheap, french, brasserie

Just went to Chartier last night June 3, 2009 to find that Chartier is CLOSED until July 1, 2009. The entrance is full of rubble. This explains why their phone has been disconnected for a few weeks. Unfortunately, the jokers at Chartier do not post any closing warning on their web site, and still display the menu and prices of the day [i.e. the menu of June 3, 2009] on the Chartier web site : - (. Hopefully, the â¬Srenovationâ¬ will not mean a change in character or a doubling of the ces, as it happened to â¬SJulienâ¬ a few streets away, but I guess I am dreaming ! Pity, as I used to go to both Chartier & Julien when I was a student in Paris in the 70â¬"s, and these some of the very few places I could afford. VinceJust went to Chartier last night June 3, 2009 to find that Chartier is CLOSED until July 1, 2009. The entrance is full of rubble. This explains why their phone has been disconnected for a few weeks. Unfortunately, the jokers at Chartier do not post any closing warning on their web site, and still display the menu and prices of the day [i.e. the menu of June 3, 2009] on the Chartier web site : - (. Hopefully, the â¬Srenovationâ¬ will not mean a change in character or a doubling of the prices, as it happened to â¬SJulienâ¬ a few streets away, but I guess I am dreaming ! Pity, as I used to go to both Chartier & Julien when I was a student in Paris in the 70â¬"s, and these some of the very few places I could afford. Vince

Au Bon Coin - Traditional Bistro by ceedoubleu

ceedoubleu — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 10:49:04 +0000

Review by ceedoubleu

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 01 43 31 55 57

Tags: french, good value, family & home feel

Tucked away on a nondescript side street just off Avenue Des Gobelins on the edge of the Latin Quarter, Au Bon Coin certainly can't rely on passing trade. The couple that we sat cheek by jowl with described it as a "local, family restaurant", a description confirmed by a group off waiting diners washing glasses.

It is small and with red checked tablecloths and rustic ornaments defiantly bistro style.

They offer a set three course menu for â¬22. The food is classically French, starters included escargots, terrine, deep fried camembert and mains. We opted for the terrine for me and the camembert for Maryam. Both were delicious, served with fresh crusty bread. For mains we had cassoulet and rack of lamb respectively, again both were outstanding, the cassoulet really was rich and flavoursome.

Wines were reasonably priced and available from a list or served by the pitcher. It was taken as a given that you would expect to have an aperitif before ordering food.

Overall, this is a small, busy bistro well worth visiting. Children are welcome but can expect a telling off from the manageress if they think about leaving the table and running about!

Tucked away on a nondescript side street just off Avenue Des Gobelins on the edge of the Latin Quarter, Au Bon Coin certainly can't rely on passing trade. The couple that we sat cheek by jowl with described it as a "local, family restaurant", a description confirmed by a group off waiting diners washing glasses.

It is small and with red checked tablecloths and rustic ornaments defiantly bistro style.

They offer a set three course menu for â¬22. The food is classically French, starters included escargots, terrine, deep fried camembert and mains. We opted for the terrine for me and the camembert for Maryam. Both were delicious, served with fresh crusty bread. For mains we had cassoulet and rack of lamb respectively, again both were outstanding, the cassoulet really was rich and flavoursome.

Wines were reasonably priced and available from a list or served by the pitcher. It was taken as a given that you would expect to have an aperitif before ordering food.

Overall, this is a small, busy bistro well worth visiting. Children are welcome but can expect a telling off from the manageress if they think about leaving the table and running about!

L'Auberge de Montparnasse - Avoid this restaurant by PatriciaBarbier

PatriciaBarbier — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 21:36:02 +0000

Review by PatriciaBarbier

Rating: 1.00

Phone: 01 56 54 01 55

Website: http://www.124montparnasse.com

Tags: french, family & home feel, romantic

I cannot believe all the 5 star reviews about this restaurant are real! The food at this restaurant was horrible, possible the worst I've ever had. My boyfriend and I went to Paris for his birthday and went to this restaurant after reading these fantastic reviews but in reality the food was terrible. I ordered a pan-fried squid salad that came with no squid whatsoever, I think the waiter misunderstood me and brought the rocket and parmesan salad instead, which was nothing special for 9 euros, it was the sort of thing I would knock together when I'm home and can't be bothered to cook. For our main course, we both ordered grilled steaks with roasted potatos but got soggy chips instead and the steak - oh my god - so though I chewed it over and over and had to spit it out. I never had a grilled steak before that had such an odd texture. I coudn't eat it and only had the vegetables. The bill came to 70 euros, we had 2 starters, 2 steaks and half a bottle of the cheapest wine. Overpriced and terible food, I would have cooked a better meal at home and I'm no masterchef. Don't throw your money away, avoid this place and go to a nice Breton creperie in Montparnasse instead.I cannot believe all the 5 star reviews about this restaurant are real! The food at this restaurant was horrible, possible the worst I've ever had. My boyfriend and I went to Paris for his birthday and went to this restaurant after reading these fantastic reviews but in reality the food was terrible. I ordered a pan-fried squid salad that came with no squid whatsoever, I think the waiter misunderstood me and brought the rocket and parmesan salad instead, which was nothing special for 9 euros, it was the sort of thing I would knock together when I'm home and can't be bothered to cook. For our main course, we both ordered grilled steaks with roasted potatos but got soggy chips instead and the steak - oh my god - so though I chewed it over and over and had to spit it out. I never had a grilled steak before that had such an odd texture. I coudn't eat it and only had the vegetables. The bill came to 70 euros, we had 2 starters, 2 steaks and half a bottle of the cheapest wine. Overpriced and terible food, I would have cooked a better meal at home and I'm no masterchef. Don't throw your money away, avoid this place and go to a nice Breton creperie in Montparnasse instead.

Le Moulin de la Galette - A bargain gastronomic lunch... by foodbymark

foodbymark — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 23:00:32 +0000

Review by foodbymark

Rating: 5.00

Phone: +33146068477

Website: www.lemoulindelagalette.eu

Tags: french, good value, michelin

The Moulin de La Galette, the last Montmartre windmill, was painted by many famous painters including Renoir, Van Gogh, and Picasso, and is situated near the top of the Montmartre district in Paris. Often that you find yourself disappointed by famous places as they do not meet expectations. With a rich and vibrant history dating back to the 18th Century it is does not disappoint.

Ordering was quick and easy by way of a friendly bi-lingual waiter. My starter of a terrine of boiled Chicken with vegetables and Duck Foie Gras accompanied by a Horseradish Fine Mousse and Mustard Seeds and a little side salad. An absolutely perfect start and fantastic cooking and presentation. For my main course I chose the veal which was off menu. Out came some beautifully cooked veal on a bed of sauteed potatoes, shredded cabbage, onions, olives, and mushrooms all gracefully garnished. For dessert - GÃ¢teau aux noix, mousse lÃ©gÃ¨re aux marrons, Sorbet au lait dâ¬"Amande. A moist yet dense walnut cake accompanied by a velvety smooth Almond Milk Sorbet and a smoky light Chestnut mousse.

Every course was perfect, and in reality just the right portions for lunch. Service was quick perhaps a little too prompt given that we were prepared to stretch the lunch out. At 25 Euros for the three courses and coffee, lunch here is a bargain. This restaurant is a hidden gem full of history in a beautiful area of Paris. A true Parisian landmark atop this restaurant, which could've so easily be turned into a tourist trap has instead been turned into a trendy and gastronomically notable bistro by Michelin-starred chefs Antoine Heerah and CÃ©dric Bernard. Excellent!

(for more photos, go to my blog!)The Moulin de La Galette, the last Montmartre windmill, was painted by many famous painters including Renoir, Van Gogh, and Picasso, and is situated near the top of the Montmartre district in Paris. Often that you find yourself disappointed by famous places as they do not meet expectations. With a rich and vibrant history dating back to the 18th Century it is does not disappoint.

Ordering was quick and easy by way of a friendly bi-lingual waiter. My starter of a terrine of boiled Chicken with vegetables and Duck Foie Gras accompanied by a Horseradish Fine Mousse and Mustard Seeds and a little side salad. An absolutely perfect start and fantastic cooking and presentation. For my main course I chose the veal which was off menu. Out came some beautifully cooked veal on a bed of sauteed potatoes, shredded cabbage, onions, olives, and mushrooms all gracefully garnished. For dessert - GÃ¢teau aux noix, mousse lÃ©gÃ¨re aux marrons, Sorbet au lait dâ¬"Amande. A moist yet dense walnut cake accompanied by a velvety smooth Almond Milk Sorbet and a smoky light Chestnut mousse.

Every course was perfect, and in reality just the right portions for lunch. Service was quick perhaps a little too prompt given that we were prepared to stretch the lunch out. At 25 Euros for the three courses and coffee, lunch here is a bargain. This restaurant is a hidden gem full of history in a beautiful area of Paris. A true Parisian landmark atop this restaurant, which could've so easily be turned into a tourist trap has instead been turned into a trendy and gastronomically notable bistro by Michelin-starred chefs Antoine Heerah and CÃ©dric Bernard. Excellent!

(for more photos, go to my blog!)

La Part des Anges - One memorable evening by billingw

billingw — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 14:55:26 +0000

Review by billingw

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 01 46 06 69 80

Tags: french, good value, family & home feel

Our two daughters had visited this place and said we HAD to go, so we did. The waiter and chef both welcomed us and spoke with us before and after dining. Both were very friendly, spoke a little English and put up with our very poor French as we talked and asked about the menu items. The ambiance was delightful and the food was both delicious and reasonably priced. Arrive early (before 20:00) to get seating among the 20 chairs. As of Oct. 3 '08, a two-course meal (entree + plate or plate + dessert) cost â¬19. I also had dessert and we each had two glasses of wine and coffee for a total bill of â¬72 or around $100 - quite a deal, even at home in Chicagoland.Our two daughters had visited this place and said we HAD to go, so we did. The waiter and chef both welcomed us and spoke with us before and after dining. Both were very friendly, spoke a little English and put up with our very poor French as we talked and asked about the menu items. The ambiance was delightful and the food was both delicious and reasonably priced. Arrive early (before 20:00) to get seating among the 20 chairs. As of Oct. 3 '08, a two-course meal (entree + plate or plate + dessert) cost â¬19. I also had dessert and we each had two glasses of wine and coffee for a total bill of â¬72 or around $100 - quite a deal, even at home in Chicagoland.

La Cerisaie - Good things come in small packages by chrisp

chrisp — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 10:14:21 +0000

Review by chrisp

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 01 43 20 98 98

Tags: french, good value, family & home feel

Impossibly tiny and therefore somewhat of a challenge to get a booking, La Cerisaie is well worth the effort. Hazelnut soup made great use of seasonal ingredients (I visited in February) and was rich and frothy. Pyrenean Suckling Lamb with Fois Gras was pretty much the best lamb dish I've ever tasted, and I've had a few. Finally the house chocolate pudding was so good we ordered another.

The menu is on a chalk blackboard and changes, I'm told, almost daily. If you're ever in the area and want a reasonably priced spot of regional French cooking, you can do no better.Impossibly tiny and therefore somewhat of a challenge to get a booking, La Cerisaie is well worth the effort. Hazelnut soup made great use of seasonal ingredients (I visited in February) and was rich and frothy. Pyrenean Suckling Lamb with Fois Gras was pretty much the best lamb dish I've ever tasted, and I've had a few. Finally the house chocolate pudding was so good we ordered another.

The menu is on a chalk blackboard and changes, I'm told, almost daily. If you're ever in the area and want a reasonably priced spot of regional French cooking, you can do no better.

L'Esquisse - Jazzy Italian Restaurant by walid

walid — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 10:30:08 +0000

Review by walid

Rating: 3.00

Phone: 01 47 34 90 56

Tags: jazz, italian, good value

Had lunch at l'Esquisse with my mom last Saturday. L'Esquisse is conveniently located 200 meters from my mom's home and as it was a sunny day we decided to give this place a try.

As it's found on l'Avenue du Suffren you get quite a few tourists who come to l'Esquisse for a bite to eat. We sat outside on the terrace to have our lunch as it was sunny and not too many cars were passing by... it is August and all Parisians flee Paris.

First impression of l'Esquisse is that it's a nice clean and relaxing venue. Second impression, is was a funny waiter we had from Bayonne. He was just super friendly, funny, and entertaining, his presence tempted me to give this place a 4 star. As for the food, it was pretty good. I had ordered an onglet with shallots that was quite good, tender but I would have expected a little better.

I think the best time to try this place is at night as they regularly have a live jazz band and/or a piano player to entertain the guests.Had lunch at l'Esquisse with my mom last Saturday. L'Esquisse is conveniently located 200 meters from my mom's home and as it was a sunny day we decided to give this place a try.

As it's found on l'Avenue du Suffren you get quite a few tourists who come to l'Esquisse for a bite to eat. We sat outside on the terrace to have our lunch as it was sunny and not too many cars were passing by... it is August and all Parisians flee Paris.

First impression of l'Esquisse is that it's a nice clean and relaxing venue. Second impression, is was a funny waiter we had from Bayonne. He was just super friendly, funny, and entertaining, his presence tempted me to give this place a 4 star. As for the food, it was pretty good. I had ordered an onglet with shallots that was quite good, tender but I would have expected a little better.

I think the best time to try this place is at night as they regularly have a live jazz band and/or a piano player to entertain the guests.

Le Petit Chablis - Little gem by acrobat

acrobat — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 11:34:12 +0000

Review by acrobat

Rating: 4.00

Phone: +33(1)42512148

Tags: romantic, french, good value

After wondering around Montmartre for an age looking for more than a tourist restaurant we came across a small yellow fronted restuarant that had no gaudy signs or multi-lingual menus. The small restaurant, with maybe 8 or so tables for 2 - 4 people had a brief but well formed menu and an excellent wine list, explained in detail by the owner who evidently took pride in her work.

Service was not rushed, but why should it be when there is an evening of good food and wine to enjoy. The pidgeon starter and duck mains were superb. The price was very reasonable and the care and attention of the chef and owner was excellent.

Highly recommended.After wondering around Montmartre for an age looking for more than a tourist restaurant we came across a small yellow fronted restuarant that had no gaudy signs or multi-lingual menus. The small restaurant, with maybe 8 or so tables for 2 - 4 people had a brief but well formed menu and an excellent wine list, explained in detail by the owner who evidently took pride in her work.

Service was not rushed, but why should it be when there is an evening of good food and wine to enjoy. The pidgeon starter and duck mains were superb. The price was very reasonable and the care and attention of the chef and owner was excellent.

Highly recommended.

Le Relais de L'Entrecote - Not for veggies by acrobat

acrobat — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 11:20:38 +0000

Review by acrobat

Rating: 4.00

Tags: french, good value, family & home feel

The first thing you get asked is rare or medium - no long description of the menu here then. The abrupt introduction hides a magnificent steak and frites feast - which is topped up and then followed by huge desserts. But get there early as the queue never seems to go away.... it must be good.The first thing you get asked is rare or medium - no long description of the menu here then. The abrupt introduction hides a magnificent steak and frites feast - which is topped up and then followed by huge desserts. But get there early as the queue never seems to go away.... it must be good.

Bistrot Niel - Definitely more than a bistrot! by Gavroche

Gavroche — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 17:53:39 +0000

Review by Gavroche

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 01.42.27.88.44

Tags: french, good value, family & home feel

A chic decor, a warm welcoming, a friendly service and an exceptional quality french cuisine would be the easier way to describe this real Parisian restaurant.

Depending on the season, the menu is a mix of traditional french cuisine with a nice touch of innovative modern cuisine with mix savours.
STARTERS

Celeriac in a remoulade sauce with foie gras
13 â¬
*Warm snails salad with Ratte potatoes
14 â¬
Grilled scallops, tartar of beetroots and condiments
15 â¬
Homemade country pÃ¢tÃ©
9 â¬
Bio hard-boiled eggs, Â«our mayonnaiseÂ»
6 â¬
Pumpkin soup, fourme dâ¬"Ambert cheese Â«Guy Savoy styleÂ»
13 â¬
Warm leek and Spanish prosciutto Â«ArrosagaraiÂ»
15 â¬
Thin slices of calfâ¬"s head, herbal vinaigrette and mimosa
12 â¬

MAIN COURSES

*Argentina sirloin steak with mustard butter, mashed potatoes
24 â¬
Blood sausage slices Â«from DuvalÂ», Parmentier with apple
18 â¬
Poultry fricassee with vinegar â¬SLyonâ¬"s styleâ¬, potatoes gratin with cepes
18 â¬
Chump end veal, vegetables stew and truffle
22 â¬
*SautÃ©ed sardines Â«capers and lemonÂ», olive oil mashed potatoes
18 â¬
Combination of potatoes and salted cod, white truffle oil
20 â¬
Grilled sea bass, green beans, olive oil - lemon
21 â¬
Roasted cod fish, candied carrots with cumin and baby spinach sprout
21 â¬

DESSERTS

Chocolate speciality, hot and cold, with vanilla ice cream
8 â¬
CrÃ¨me brÃ»lÃ©e with vanilla
7 â¬
Chocolate terrine with plum brandy
8 â¬
Rice pudding, butter caramel sauce
6 â¬
Apple crumble, vanilla ice cream
7 â¬
Orange salad â¬SMoroccan styleâ¬ candied zests
8 â¬

Everydayâ¬"s specials

Monday: Duck cottage pie, small salad
19 â¬
Tuesday: Roasted veal kidney, macaroni gratin
21 â¬
Wednesday: Skate with capers, olive oil mashed potatoes
21 â¬
Thursday: Roasted farm chicken with romary, purÃ©ed potatoes with fresh herbs
19 â¬
Friday: Sole meuniÃ¨re, mashed potatoes with baby olives
31 â¬
Saturday: Shoulder of lamb with herbs, flageolets and parsley
23 â¬

A REAL GOOD ADDRESS!
http://www.bistrotetoile.comA chic decor, a warm welcoming, a friendly service and an exceptional quality french cuisine would be the easier way to describe this real Parisian restaurant.

Depending on the season, the menu is a mix of traditional french cuisine with a nice touch of innovative modern cuisine with mix savours.
STARTERS

Celeriac in a remoulade sauce with foie gras
13 â¬
*Warm snails salad with Ratte potatoes
14 â¬
Grilled scallops, tartar of beetroots and condiments
15 â¬
Homemade country pÃ¢tÃ©
9 â¬
Bio hard-boiled eggs, Â«our mayonnaiseÂ»
6 â¬
Pumpkin soup, fourme dâ¬"Ambert cheese Â«Guy Savoy styleÂ»
13 â¬
Warm leek and Spanish prosciutto Â«ArrosagaraiÂ»
15 â¬
Thin slices of calfâ¬"s head, herbal vinaigrette and mimosa
12 â¬

MAIN COURSES

*Argentina sirloin steak with mustard butter, mashed potatoes
24 â¬
Blood sausage slices Â«from DuvalÂ», Parmentier with apple
18 â¬
Poultry fricassee with vinegar â¬SLyonâ¬"s styleâ¬, potatoes gratin with cepes
18 â¬
Chump end veal, vegetables stew and truffle
22 â¬
*SautÃ©ed sardines Â«capers and lemonÂ», olive oil mashed potatoes
18 â¬
Combination of potatoes and salted cod, white truffle oil
20 â¬
Grilled sea bass, green beans, olive oil - lemon
21 â¬
Roasted cod fish, candied carrots with cumin and baby spinach sprout
21 â¬

DESSERTS

Chocolate speciality, hot and cold, with vanilla ice cream
8 â¬
CrÃ¨me brÃ»lÃ©e with vanilla
7 â¬
Chocolate terrine with plum brandy
8 â¬
Rice pudding, butter caramel sauce
6 â¬
Apple crumble, vanilla ice cream
7 â¬
Orange salad â¬SMoroccan styleâ¬ candied zests
8 â¬

Everydayâ¬"s specials

Monday: Duck cottage pie, small salad
19 â¬
Tuesday: Roasted veal kidney, macaroni gratin
21 â¬
Wednesday: Skate with capers, olive oil mashed potatoes
21 â¬
Thursday: Roasted farm chicken with rosemary, purÃ©ed potatoes with fresh herbs
19 â¬
Friday: Sole meuniÃ¨re, mashed potatoes with baby olives
31 â¬
Saturday: Shoulder of lamb with herbs, flageolets and parsley
23 â¬

A REAL GOOD ADDRESS!
http://www.bistrotetoile.com

Refuge des Fondus - FondueS just for fun by Gavroche

Gavroche — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 12:12:07 +0000

Review by Gavroche

Rating: 3.00

Phone: 01 42 55 22 65

Tags: lively, french, crowded

If you are up for a big fun evening, Le Refuge des Fondues is perfect.
Here, nothing is serious. Not event the waiters!
Only 2 items on the menu:
-Fondue Savoyarde (the cheese and white wine fondue)
-Fondue Bourguignone (chopped beef meat dipped in oil) served with vegetable.

One long table on each side of the only dinning room. You almost need to climb on the table to reach your seat.
It is all about conviviality and laughters. You share your cheese fondue with your neighbour's Bourguignone Fondue and you drink your wine in baby bottles while the waiters tell jokes!
It is certainly not the best food in the world, but what the Hell! just HAVE FUN!If you are up for a big fun evening, Le Refuge des Fondues is perfect.
Here, nothing is serious. Not event the waiters!
Only 2 items on the menu:
-Fondue Savoyarde (the cheese and white wine fondue)
-Fondue Bourguignone (chopped beef meat dipped in oil) served with vegetable.

One long table on each side of the only dinning room. You almost need to climb on the table to reach your seat.
It is all about conviviality and laughters. You share your cheese fondue with your neighbour's Bourguignone Fondue and you drink your wine in baby bottles while the waiters tell jokes!
It is certainly not the best food in the world, but what the Hell! just HAVE FUN!

Kokolion - Before (or after) the play ... by Gavroche

Gavroche — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 12:06:32 +0000

Review by Gavroche

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 01 42 58 24 41

Tags: romantic, french, expensive

Another hidden restaurant in Montmartre.
2 minutes from Abbesses MÃ©tro station and 5 to both Montmartre theatres.

Kokolion is decorated with old posters of French classic films and plays. The cuisine is fine and traditional and the owners are extremely welcoming.

It is the perfect place for a nicer (but slightly more expensive) dinner.

Come early, as most of customers arrive after the plays in the nearby theatres.Another hidden restaurant in Montmartre.
2 minutes from Abbesses MÃ©tro station and 5 to both Montmartre theatres.

Kokolion is decorated with old posters of French classic films and plays. The cuisine is fine and traditional and the owners are extremely welcoming.

It is the perfect place for a nicer (but slightly more expensive) dinner.

Come early, as most of customers arrive after the plays in the nearby theatres.

Au Virage Lepic - Incoutournable! by Gavroche

Gavroche — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 11:49:04 +0000

Review by Gavroche

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 01 42 52 46 79

Tags: french, expensive, family & home feel

This is one of the "can't miss" places in Montmartre.
Loaded with locals, Au Virage Lepic will show you what a GOOD corner restaurant can be.
The menu, the french classics; The ambiance: a rustic restaurant decorated with hundreds of pictures of famous french stars who enjoy(ed) coming here.

Obviously, Virage Lepics holds a special place in my heart as I was born next door! So, now that I live in London, going back to Au Virage Lepic is a bit like going back in time. I think the feeling is also felt by those who look for a bit of nostalgy and the original parisian athmosphere.

Expect to pay 35â¬ per person with wine.This is one of the "can't miss" places in Montmartre.
Loaded with locals, Au Virage Lepic will show you what a GOOD corner restaurant can be.
The menu, the french classics; The ambiance: a rustic restaurant decorated with hundreds of pictures of famous french stars who enjoy(ed) coming here.

Obviously, Virage Lepics holds a special place in my heart as I was born next door! So, now that I live in London, going back to Au Virage Lepic is a bit like going back in time. I think the feeling is also felt by those who look for a bit of nostalgy and the original parisian athmosphere.

Expect to pay 35â¬ per person with wine.

Le Basilic - a bit pricy but nice decor by Gavroche

Gavroche — Sun, 16 Mar 2008 22:00:14 +0000

Review by Gavroche

Rating: 3.00

Phone: 01 46 06 78 43

Tags: french, family & home feel, expensive

the decor is rustic but a bit too much. It si well located but touristic. If you want a real feel of Montmartre, there are better places. The food is fine and traditional.
the decor is rustic but a bit too much. It si well located but touristic. If you want a real feel of Montmartre, there are better places. The food is fine and traditional.