In the heart of the 5th
I don’t think you could find a 'better value' for money in a more charming bistro. Located in the busy centre of the 5th its everything a lunchtime experience should be. Good food served efficiently and with a smile. Comfortable seating, 1920’s frescos, quality wine by the glass and three excellent courses for €16 euors. (You can also choose 2 plates from €13).
There is of course the ‘menu de carte’ from 31 euors which I look forward to trying in the future. My starter, sashimi salmon was lightly drizzled with a soy dressing, the main, a fleshy callibaud (fish) although served warm not ‘hot’ was fine and rested on a bed of spiced ratatouille, tasty enough but not sensational.
All was forgiven however with a mouthful of the ‘crème de pistaschio’ topped with a raspberry coulis. Other diners were enjoying ‘Porc de Pieds with lentils’, ‘Mouton and haricots beans’ and ‘Poitrine veau farci’ all appeared very appetizing –
Le Buisson Argent - rue Jussieu 75005 Paris T: 33 (0)1 43 54 93 02
www.lebuissonardent.fr
4th - 6th
Les Bouquinistes
— A lovely restaurant situated on the Quai of the Seine. Decor is modern, minimalist but elegant. Service is attentive and friendly. Sampled was the ‘Carpaccio de Canard’ accompanied by a Foie Gras and Kumquat confiture; followed by ‘Croustillants d’escargots’ drizzled in a light garlic cream sauce. Both were close to perfect. Also tried was one of their signature dishes, ‘Ravioli Brittany Crab’, served in a frothy light sauce with a hint of ginger, oil and lemongrass.
Don’t miss this restaurant, which is one of six in the Guy Savoy stable. A lunchtime set menu starts from €25 (menu du jour) with one glass of wine, however the comfortable, relaxed environment will probably have you ordering another.
www.lesbouquinistes.com
53 quai des Grand Augustins t : 01 43 25 45 94
Indian Yugaraj
— The reviews on this Indian are quite good and it is reputed to be the best in Paris. It has been in business for over 37 years so they must be doing something right. Formula menus from €19; a dégustation of 6 plats expect €66 pp and 'a la carte' dishes from €40.
It can be difficult to find a 'really hot' curry so if you don't like your curry mild, ensure to ask for a little extra spice or two.
Open for lunch and dinner midday-2pm then 7pm until 10pm. Closed Mondays.
www.yugaraj.com
14 rue Dauphine, 75006 t: 01 43 26 44 91
Brasserie Lipp - not a restaurant a brasserie!
— This is a 'true' Parisian institution that once entertained the likes of Picasso and Hemingway. There's no 'nouveau cuisine' here and for traditionalist this place won't disappoint. Don't expect 'modern' touches but classics such as 'Hareng Bismark', a house specialty and Grilled Pigs trotters have been on the menu forever. Go for the ambiance, attentive service and a little piece of Paris history. They don't take bookings however recommended over the 'Cafe Flore' or the 'Deux Margot' opposite.
www.groupe-bertrand.com
151 boulevard Saint Germain, 75005, t: 0145 48 53 91
Chez Fernand in St Germain not Montparnasse!
— Down a little Parisian alley lies this small but cosy bistro. The focus is on serving produce fresh from the markets, with an ever-changing menu but stable classic such as Erquy scallops, Bouef bourguigonne, and Limousin beef remain constant. Try their country pâté, a house specialty. Open 7 days for lunch and dinner. Reservations encouraged. A set menu at: Lunch €15, Dinner €34 is very good value.
9, rue Christine - 75006 Paris t:01 43 25 18 55
Le Comptoir du Relais - one of the best
— The truth is that this place is always 'complete'; 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
Le Comptoir du Relais - one of the best
— The Chef, Yves Camdeborde, has been voted 5 times as one of the best bistro for its fixed priced of 40 euros. Its simple fresh, tasty French food, Foie Gras, roast lamb, Terrines of cepes, soups and much more. Go early by 1pm there's a queue of locals. Its adjacent to the Hotel Relais St. Germain which is under-going extensive renovations which should be completed by Winter 2008.
9 Carrefour de L'Odeon, 75006, t: 01 43 29 12 05
Le Relais de L'Entrecôte
— If you are seeking the best 'steak frites' this is a Parisian institution. Arrive close to opening time at 7pm to avoid queues. Once seated the harried but usually friendly waitress will ask how you like your steak.
Well done = bien cuit: Medium-rare = à point: Rare = Saignant: Very Rare = Bleu.
First a walnut salad, then a large silver tray will arrive with your steak, accompanied by a pepper sauce with a hint of mustard. No doubt a secret recipe. Seconds are encouraged, sometimes thirds!
20 rue Saint-Benoit, t: 01 45 49 16 00
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