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Ten Fabulous French Bistros in Paris

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Paris is known for its vibrant food scene, and French bistros are at the heart of it.

These casual, often small French Bistros serve classic French cuisine within a relaxed atmosphere at affordable prices.

The menus are typically similar with salads in summer, duck dishes, escargots, onion soup, fresh bread and gorgeous, affordable wines by the bottle and glass.

They often have set menus for lunch which are typically three courses and very affordable. The first two on the list are the newest and the rest are classic French bistros where you will love to step back in time and indulge in French food and wine.

Le Bistrot du Peintre: There’s something very Parisian and wonderful about sitting outside this French bistro in the 11th arrondissement which has been around since 1902 and has a classic Parisian feel. The menu features traditional dishes such as escargots, foie gras, and roast chicken.

Le Bistro Du Peintre is a beautiful French Bistro in Summer

Le Comptoir des Petits Champs: Located in the 1st arrondissement, Le Comptoir des Petits Champs is a hidden gem that serves up classic French cuisine. The menu changes regularly, but favorites include the classic French coq au vin and duck confit. Setting is elegant – this is one of the ore upmarket bistros listed here.

Le Comptoir always attracts people to the window where an old fashioned TV is sitting.

Le Rigmarole: This fairly new bistro in the 11th arrondissement offers a modern take on traditional French cuisine and is super popular as a result. The menu changes regularly, but dishes include creative takes on French staples such as the lamb saddle with baba ganoush and the brioche with sea urchin and caviar. The restaurant has a minimalist interior with a modern, open kitchen, allowing diners to watch as the chefs prepare their meals.

Chez L’Ami Jean: Located in the heart of the Saint Germain des Prés neighborhood, Chez L’Ami Jean is a popular spot for locals as well as a few tourists. The quintessentially French restaurant serves hearty Basque cuisine, with specialties including the famous duck confit and steak tartare.

Chez L’Ami Jean is one of the elegant, smaller French Bistros

Le Comptoir du Relais: Also tucked away in bustling Saint Germain des Prés, Le Comptoir du Relais is a cute local bistro known for its traditional French fare. Sitting on the avenue is perfect for the traditional French bistro experience. The menu changes seasonally, but regular favourites include the roasted bone marrow and the slow roasted beef cheek.

Le Comptoir du Relais is located in the trendy St Germain Area of Paris

Bistrot Paul Bert: This charming bistro in the 11th arrondissement has a cozy interior and a menu filled with classic French dishes. IT has a cult following for the high quality food and because it has been around for a long time. Tourisst and locals gravitate here. The steak frites and roasted chicken are always crowd-pleasers as is the local wine list which is very well priced.

Le Paul Bert is a French Bistro with a cult following in Paris.

Le Severo: Located in the 14th arrondissement, Le Severo is a small bistro that specialises in steak. The owner is a trained butcher who sources high-quality meat, and cuts it well, ensuring this bistro serves up some of the best steaks in the city.

Le Severo is the French Bistro in Paris renowned for amazing selection of red meat.

L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon: With two locations in Paris, L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon is a modern take on the French bistro concept.. The menu features creative dishes that are beautifully presented, such as the truffle-topped mashed potatoes and langoustine ravioli. There are locals who don’t support the concept of a French Bistro branching out or “becoming a chain” which might be why tourists tend to dominate here.

Les Philosophes: Located in the Marais neighborhood, Les Philosophes is a popular and bustling bistro every day of the week, and serves classic French dishes with a modern twist. The menu includes French staples such as escargots and onion soup.

Les Philosophes is one of the French Bistros that attracts a younger crowd.

Les Petits Rolls: Located in the 10th arrondissement, Les Petits Rolls is a modern, new bistro that specialises in creative sushi rolls with a French twist. The menu includes unique creations such as the foie gras sushi roll and the escargot sushi roll. The restaurant also offers a variety of sake and wine pairings.

Les Petite Rolls is a modern take on French Bistros, serving sushi rolls.

Paris is home to so many great bistro restaurants, each with their own unique charm and cuisine. 

From the classic steak frites to more modern dishes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

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Renae elegantly traverses the globe, curating the most exquisite personalised travel, dining, and wellness experiences for discerning women. With over 25 years of distinguished journalism, her work has illuminated the pages of prestigious magazines, newspapers, and digital platforms. Renae’s expertise transcends travel writing; she is a coveted speaker and coach within the luxury hotel industry. Balancing her professional pursuits with a delightful contradiction—a passion for fitness and an indulgence in dark chocolate—Renae infuses a unique blend of authority and Australian charm into the realm of luxury travel.

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