l'Ouzeri -- Restaurant Review

 

(Photo from La Fourcette) 

They don't have a website, but you can get all the logistical information through "The Fork" and even make reservations.
https://www.thefork.fr/restaurant/l-ouzeri-r836163

Rating Standards: 5-Stars = Extraordinary; 4-Stars = Excellent; 3-Stars = Average; 2-Stars = Fair; 1-Star = Poor € = Inexpensive: 30€ and under; €€ = Moderate: 31€-49€; €€€ = Expensive: €50 -75; €€€€ = Very Expensive: more than €76 (prices based on minimum 2-courses)

1-Bell = Pleasantly quiet (less than 65 decibels); 2-Bells = Can talk easily (65-70); 3-Bells = Talking normally gets difficult (70-80); 4-Bells = Can talk only in raised voices (75-90); BOMB = Too noisy for normal conversation (90+)

4.6 - stars .........................€€...................................... 3.5-🔔 

It was a hot, humid August night, and I was hoping to snag something air-conditioned at the last minute. No luck—but in my search, I stumbled upon this restaurant. It’s not air-conditioned (oh well), but we came prepared with our trusty mini hand fans.

Finding good restaurants in Paris during summer can be tricky—half the city shutters for vacation from mid-July to the end of August, except for the usual tourist zones.

I don’t usually review “ethnic” restaurants—would you consider Greek ethnic?—but this one was so good I had to share it with my readers.

Note: I’m only reviewing the dishes I actually tried

(This is pretty much the whole restaurant)

It’s a tiny spot—what you see when you walk in is pretty much the whole restaurant. At most, it seats about 18 people, with maybe one table big enough for a group of five. The size gives it a warm, family-style, homey feel.

Pita Bread – The pita doesn’t usually come with the meal, but we ordered it as an extra—and I have to say, it was delicious. I doubt it was made in-house, but it had that homemade taste. It was diagonally scored, brushed with olive oil, sprinkled with herbs, and served warm. On its own, it was wonderful—but even better for sopping up the hummus, which came a little later.

Hummus. – You could immediately tell this was Greek-style hummus. Greeks have a love affair with citrus, and it really shines through here. The texture was smooth and creamy, the olive oil generous, and the flavor brightened with a noticeable lemony tang. It was delicious—refreshing, even—but definitely more on the citrus-forward side than the earthier, garlic-heavy versions you might find elsewhere. 

Greek Salad. As simple as this dish was, the freshness of the ingredients made it shine. The tomatoes were so sweet they could have passed for summer fruit, bursting with flavor in every bite. The feta was spot-on—creamy yet firm, with just the right balance of salt. (Feta can sometimes lean too salty, but here it played perfectly with the sweetness of the tomatoes.) The combination was clean, vibrant, and exactly what you hope for in a Greek salad.

Grilled Octopus. I have to say, this was one of the best octopus dishes I’ve ever had—even compared to some I’ve enjoyed in Greece. The octopus was beautifully charred, giving it a smoky depth without a hint of bitterness, and it was tender enough to cut with just a fork—none of that rubbery chewiness that can ruin the experience. The grilled tomatoes and fresh salad alongside added a bright, refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the seafood. The potatoes were perfectly cooked—fluffy on the inside and seasoned just right—though I would have loved the skin to be a touch crispier for that extra bit of texture.

We opted not to have dessert.

SUMMARY 

What a fantastic find. If you’re craving good, honest food and want a break from the sometimes heavier side of French cuisine, I can’t recommend this restaurant enough. Every ingredient tasted fresh, and from the moment you glance at the menu, you know you’re in for an authentically Greek experience. Greek cuisine has always been one of my favorites—the vibrant produce, the generous use of lemon, the drizzle of good olive oil over everything—it’s food that feels alive.

This isn’t the place for a quiet, romantic dinner. The small size means it can get lively (read: noisy) when it’s full, but that’s part of its charm. Would we go back? In a heartbeat. And with its central location, it’s an easy choice for locals and visitors alike. The wait staff are also extremely friendly. 

For two entrées, pita bread, a bottle of rosé, and four mains, our bill for four people came to €42 each—very reasonable for the quality. The rosé was Greek (unfortunately I didn’t catch the label), but it was crisp, light, and exactly what you want on a hot, humid August night.

Baca'v Boulogne par Emile Cotte -- Restaurant Review

 

(For info: address, menu, reservations, see website https://www.bacav.fr/)

Rating Standards: 5-Stars = Extraordinary; 4-Stars = Excellent; 3-Stars = Average; 2-Stars = Fair; 1-Star = Poor € = Inexpensive: 30€ and under; €€ = Moderate: 31€-49€; €€€ = Expensive: €50 -75; €€€€ = Very Expensive: more than €76 (prices based on minimum 2-courses)

1-Bell = Pleasantly quiet (less than 65 decibels); 2-Bells = Can talk easily (65-70); 3-Bells = Talking normally gets difficult (70-80); 4-Bells = Can talk only in raised voices (75-90); BOMB = Too noisy for normal conversation (90+)

4.5 - stars .........................€€€...................................... 3-🔔 

A close friend had recently dined at this restaurant and highly recommended it, so we decided to give it a try. While it's technically located in Boulogne-Billancourt, a suburb of Paris, it's so easily accessible by metro or bus that it feels like part of the city.

As you walk in, you quickly realize it’s not your typical French bistro or café. The space feels relatively modern, lacking that classic French charm, but the tables are still tightly packed. That said, the restaurant is spacious enough to accommodate a large number of guests. We were seated at a nice table in the back, meant for 8 to 10 people—plenty of room for our group of six.

The restaurant offered a well-priced prix-fixe menu, and we all chose the €45 option, which included an entrée, main course, and dessert.

NOTE: 

--I'm only going to review the dishes I had.

--Not all of us spoke French, so they do have english menus and all the wait-staff spoke english.

Potato salad, sea snails, aioli sauce.

What a great start to the meal—colorful, well-balanced, and bursting with freshness thanks to the generous use of herbs. Sea snails aren’t for everyone, as they can be a bit chewy, but I happen to enjoy them. Just don’t confuse them with escargot—they're completely different. Sea snails come from the ocean and have a firmer texture, while escargot are land snails and tend to be more tender.

The potatoes were simply boiled, with small dollops of aioli on the side to add as you like. Despite the heartiness of the potatoes, the greens kept the dish feeling light and fresh. A beautifully composed and satisfying starter.

King prawns plancha style, provencal vegetables with basil. 

Three generous, plump prawns were perched atop a warm vegetable medley that resembled a ratatouille—though curiously missing its signature ingredient, eggplant. Still, the dish was beautifully presented and full of color and life. The prawns were expertly cooked: tender, sweet, and just barely opaque in the center, with a delicate snap to the bite. That said, I couldn’t help wishing they’d been served it with the head-on, that’s where the richest flavor lives, but perhaps that’s the Asian palate speaking.

The herb sauce—bright, verdant, and slightly tangy—tied everything together with a lovely lift. The vegetables were well-seasoned and deeply savory, though after the first course with potatoes I just had, the overall effect began to feel a bit heavy. I ended up leaving a few bites behind.

Still, it was another thoughtfully composed and technically well-executed dish that showed a clear respect for ingredients and balance.

Cheese plate for dessert 

As I always say, you can’t go wrong with cheese in France. I’m not sure what possessed me to order the cheese course—I was already beyond full at that point—but I couldn’t resist. I made sure to sample each one, and they were all excellent. The selection offered a nice variety of flavors and textures, from creamy to firm, mild to pungent. A small serving of jellied sweet ginger accompanied the plate, adding a delicate, unexpected touch that paired beautifully with the cheeses.

Arretxea Haitza rouge

"One of France’s great vins de garde, Haitza is opaque, dense, deep, and noble. Wild black fruits on the nose, along with pepper, spice, and a kiss of oak. A full-throttle Tannat (with a splash of Cabernet Sauvignon) to be treated like a great Bordeaux growth." 

—Anthony Lynch

NOTE: This is an Irouleguy from the Basque region of France/Spain.

SUMMARY 

Let’s just say I was pleasantly surprised. The food was excellent, and the service was very good—though there were a few minor lapses, like missing utensils at times. Still, everyone at the table raved about the meal. The chef’s commitment to sourcing the freshest ingredients—especially the vegetables and herbs—was evident in every dish. If I have one complaint, it did get a bit noisy now and then.

Would we go back? Absolutely. While it might be a bit of a trek for some, I’d say it’s well worth the journey.

For six prix-fixe lunches (entrée, main, and dessert) at €45 each, plus a bottle of Arretxea Haitza rouge at €70 and a spritz at €15, our total came to €355—just over €59 per person. Not a bad deal at all, even with the relatively pricey bottle of wine.

Anahuacalli -- Restaurant Review

Website is inoperable

Address: 30 Rue des Bernardins, 75005 Paris, France

Phone: +33 1 43 26 10 20

Rating Standards: 5-Stars = Extraordinary; 4-Stars = Excellent; 3-Stars = Average; 2-Stars = Fair; 1-Star = Poor € = Inexpensive: 30€ and under; €€ = Moderate: 31€-49€; €€€ = Expensive: €50 -75; €€€€ = Very Expensive: more than €76 (prices based on minimum 2-courses)

1-Bell = Pleasantly quiet (less than 65 decibels); 2-Bells = Can talk easily (65-70); 3-Bells = Talking normally gets difficult (70-80); 4-Bells = Can talk only in raised voices (75-90); BOMB = Too noisy for normal conversation (90+)

3 - star ...........................€€.......................................... 1-🔔 

 (Note: we were the only diners in the restaurant, probably due to the heat, they have no outdoor seating) 

This restaurant has been around longer than we have—well before 2008, as far as we know. We hadn’t been back since the late 2000s.

I don’t usually review ethnic restaurants, but I occasionally make exceptions—especially since many American expats crave familiar flavors from home, even if reinterpreted through a different lens abroad. And let’s be honest: sometimes it’s just nice to take a break from French food. Personally, I often find myself craving something with a bit of heat.

Here’s one tip we’ve learned over the years: never, ever compare, say, Mexican food in Europe to what you can get in California or the American Southwest. The same goes for other cuisines—don’t expect Chinese food in Europe to match what you’d find in San Francisco or in China. If you do, you’re setting yourself up for disappointment 100% of the time. It’s just not the same experience—and that’s okay. It is what it is.

NOTE: I'm only reviewing dishes that I tasted.

Chips and Salsa Verde. I don’t usually comment on chips and salsa, but these were surprisingly good—especially the salsa. I wasn’t expecting anything spicy in Paris, but this had a nice kick. More than just heat, it had a bright, fresh flavor that tasted like it came from fresh jalapeños—not the canned kind. I could be wrong, but it definitely didn’t have that dull, processed taste. We all agreed: it was fresh, spicy, and full of flavor.

Nopales (Prickly pear cactus). We all shared this appetizer, but unfortunately, it didn’t quite hit the mark. The nopales didn’t taste fresh—they were either canned or severely overcooked. To be honest, the dish was a bit bland. It was topped with feta cheese instead of the more traditional queso fresco, which struck me as an odd choice. What it really needed was a bit of heat and a splash of citrus to bring it to life. As it was, it fell flat.

Cochinita Pibil. A traditional dish from Mexico’s Yucatán region, Cochinita Pibil is known for its tender, slow-cooked pork and vibrant flavor. This version featured pork simmered in an achiote and orange sauce, served with black beans, Mexican-style rice, pickled red onions, and a slice of avocado.

The pork was indeed very tender, but the overall flavor leaned heavily on the citrus—mainly due to the pickled onions—which somewhat overpowered the dish. It lacked any real heat, so I added some salsa verde to give it a bit of a kick. The black beans were topped with a mild feta, which is understandable since queso fresco is not readily available here, and the rice was good. Overall an OK dish, but nothing memorable.

SUMMARY

As a general rule, the French aren’t big fans of spicy food. So, most of the Mexican restaurants I’ve tried in Paris tend to be quite “Frenchified.” When a new place opens, it might start off with a bit more heat, but after a few complaints, the spice level usually gets toned down—often at the cost of authenticity.

That said, I thought the salsa verde here was excellent. The nopales needed a lot of help, and the cochinita pibil was just okay. Would we go back? Probably—but next time, I’ll be asking for extra salsa or a bottle of hot sauce.

I'll end by saying, 'STILL ON THE SEARCH'...

With 1-entrée, 4-plats, 1-coke, 2-beers for 4-people our lunch cost us €110.50 or almost €28 each. 

Note: the Restaurant does not have A/C 

 

Capitaine -- Restaurant Review

 

For info, directions see website: https://www.restaurantcapitaine.fr/

Rating Standards: 5-Stars = Extraordinary; 4-Stars = Excellent; 3-Stars = Average; 2-Stars = Fair; 1-Star = Poor € = Inexpensive: 30€ and under; €€ = Moderate: 31€-49€; €€€ = Expensive: €50 -75; €€€€ = Very Expensive: more than €76 (prices based on minimum 2-courses)

1-Bell = Pleasantly quiet (less than 65 decibels); 2-Bells = Can talk easily (65-70); 3-Bells = Talking normally gets difficult (70-80); 4-Bells = Can talk only in raised voices (75-90); BOMB = Too noisy for normal conversation (90+)

3.5 - star ...........................€€€.......................................... 3.5-🔔 

A friend of ours recommended this restaurant, and I immediately jumped at the chance, since I’m already familiar with Le Servan. A bit of background: the Levha sisters—Katia and Tatiana, the acclaimed duo behind Le Servan—played a pivotal role in the creation of Capitaine. The menu was small, but in my book, the fewer items, the better. If you see a novel for a menu, run away. 

Back in 2014, chef Baptiste Day worked with them at Le Servan. When he branched out in 2017 to open Capitaine, the Levha sisters supported him, offering mentorship, guidance, and the benefit of their culinary vision. Their influence helped shape Capitaine as an extension of their shared approach to modern Parisian cuisine—thoughtful, inventive, and rooted in both tradition and personal heritage.

If you’re not familiar with their story, the Levha sisters draw inspiration from their Filipina mother, blending Asian flavors with French ingredients and classical techniques—a creative fusion I’ve always admired.

So I was genuinely excited to try Capitaine, having always been a fan of Le Servan.

It’s a fairly spacious restaurant with simple, unpretentious decor—no fancy linen tablecloths here. The kitchen is tiny, but the chef made it work impressively well. As for the restroom—yes, there’s only one—it’s quite small, but clean and well-kept.

The location is ideal, nestled between Le Marais and Bastille, making it easy to get to. That said, fair warning: on warm days, there’s no air conditioning, so bring a hand fan if you tend to overheat. The clientele was a diverse mix—not just locals, but visitors from all over the world, which speaks to the restaurant’s growing reputation.


NOTE: I will only review the dishes I tasted.

You will not find a menu on their website, I assume it is because they change it often. But here's a copy of the menu we were offered. 

ENTRÉES

PORK CROQUETTES. A simple dish, but beautifully executed. The filling reminded me of Southern-style shredded pork—tender, subtly seasoned, and not overly spiced. The exterior was perfectly fried: crisp, not greasy, with a lovely crunch. The accompanying mayonnaise was mild and balanced, allowing the flavors of the croquette to shine. It had that comforting, straightforward appeal you find in classic Southern fried fare. Excellent.

Note: this was a shared entrée.

VEAL TARTARE. This was my entrée. A beautifully presented entrée, with the veal tartare tucked beneath a delicate arrangement of fennel fronds, edible flowers, and salicoques (tiny shrimp like seaweed stems).

Unlike the ground version (think hamburger consistency), this tartare was cubed. Personally, I found it a bit challenging—the cubed meat retains the long muscle fibers, so each bite involved chewing through intact strands, which can feel chewy or sinewy, especially if the cut includes connective tissue or isn’t finely diced.

As a general tip: when ordering tartare, it’s worth asking where the meat was sourced and whether it was hand-chopped or machine-processed. If the latter, I’d skip it—poorly cleaned equipment increases the risk of bacterial contamination. (Don’t worry, this place seemed fine—just a note for fellow tartare fans.)

Flavor-wise, everything was well balanced and thoughtfully composed.The "bagna cauda)" (sauce made with garlic, anchovies, olive oil), was not overpowering at all. It tasted like a nice mayonnaise with a touch of anchovies. My only issue was with the texture of the veal itself. This would've been a great dish had it not been for the way the veal was prepared. Let’s just say... I had to ask for a toothpick afterward.

PLAT

TRUITE EN CROUTE. Truite en Croûte – Our waiter warned us this dish would be generous, easily enough for two, so a friend and I decided to share it. Unfortunately, the presentation was underwhelming. It arrived as a puff pastry dome over the fish with a single cabbage leaf wrapped around it. Visually, it lacked contrast—mostly shades of brown on brown. A touch of green or a bright garnish would’ve gone a long way.

As for the trout itself, I assume it was rainbow trout—the flesh was pink, almost like salmon, and surprisingly thick. It was perfectly cooked and very tender. We expected a side of vegetables, but none arrived... until we cut into the dish and found a bed of steamed cabbage hidden under the fish. Eh voilà—veggies!

My only real complaint: the flavor profile of the sauce leaned heavily citrusy, and combined with the use of garam masala (a blend of aromatic spices common in Indian and South Asian cuisines), it left a slightly bitter aftertaste. This might have been due to some of the spices not being properly bloomed (i.e., toasted to release their essential oils), which can result in bitterness. Otherwise truite en croûte on its own was perfectly cooked

DESSERTS

1. PAVLOVA – Full disclosure: I’m not a fan of Pavlovas to begin with, so take this with a grain of salt. I took one bite and, for me, it felt more like whipped cream over apricots. It was quite sweet and very cream-forward, which didn’t quite win me over. That said, the rest of the table really enjoyed it, so clearly it hit the mark for Pavlova lovers.

2. TARTLETTE– A classic strawberry and raspberry tart on an almond-flour crust. Even though I rarely eat dessert—usually just a taste for review’s sake—I’d say this was the better of the two. The fruit tasted very fresh, and my friends agreed it was the standout.

If I’m being honest, while both were enjoyable, they didn’t quite rise to the level of what you might expect from Paris or France, where dessert is often an art form. These had more of a well-made, home-style quality—comforting and familiar, but not particularly refined or inventive.

Wine- Syrah

Appearance: Deep ruby with violet hues at the rim, youthful and vibrant in the glass.

Nose: Expressive and aromatic, with notes of ripe blackberry, black cherry, and plum. Subtle hints of cracked black pepper, violet, and a touch of smoked meat or charcuterie in the background. A trace of garrigue or dried herbs suggests a southern French influence.

Palate: Medium-bodied with fresh acidity and soft, integrated tannins. The fruit carries through on the palate—juicy dark berries, blackcurrant, and a bit of licorice. A gentle spiciness lingers, alongside a slightly earthy or mineral undertone. It’s approachable and easy-drinking, yet retains the varietal character of Syrah without being overly extracted or heavy.

Finish: Clean and moderately long, with a lingering note of dark fruit and a touch of pepper.

Overall impressions. A well-balanced, youthful Syrah that leans toward elegance over power. Great for casual drinking, especially with grilled meats, charcuterie, or lentil dishes. Offers good value and accessibility, with enough character to make it interesting.

SUMMARY 

I’m genuinely torn about this restaurant. I had such high hopes—perhaps because I couldn’t help comparing it to Le Servan. The dishes were, overall, very good, but each had minor technical issues that kept them from being truly exceptional. Small adjustments could’ve made a big difference—like grinding instead of cubing the veal, or not using raw spices in a beurre blanc, which left a slightly bitter finish.

One detail that stood out: utensils weren’t changed between courses. I understand space is tight in the kitchen, but that’s a basic service standard—and investing in a dishwasher would go a long way.

Service was a bit uneven. The male staff were kind and attentive, but there was some visible tension in the back of house. One of the bus staff, the only woman on the team, came out in tears at one point. She composed herself quickly, but understandably didn’t seem in the best spirits. Also, we had to wait an unusually long time between the entrée and main course.

Another thing to note: it can get very noisy. The space is lively and energetic, but at times it was difficult to hear each other across the table—which might not suit everyone, depending on the occasion, eg not suitable for a romantic dinner

That said, I’d still consider going back. My friends loved their meals (entrées and plats), and I see real potential here. For me, it was an above average experience, with a few thoughtful refinements, it could become something truly special.

 For 1-bottle of wine, 5-entrées, 3-plats, 2-desserts, 1 bottle of water, for 4-of us our bill came to €268 or €67 each.

Tavline -- Restaurant Review

 

For information, menu, reservations click on link Tavline Restaurant

Rating Standards: 5-Stars = Extraordinary; 4-Stars = Excellent; 3-Stars = Average; 2-Stars = Fair; 1-Star = Poor € = Inexpensive: 30€ and under; €€ = Moderate: 31€-49€; €€€ = Expensive: €50 -75; €€€€ = Very Expensive: more than €76 (prices based on minimum 2-courses)

1-Bell = Pleasantly quiet (less than 65 decibels); 2-Bells = Can talk easily (65-70); 3-Bells = Talking normally gets difficult (70-80); 4-Bells = Can talk only in raised voices (75-90); BOMB = Too noisy for normal conversation (90+)

4.5 - star ...........................€€.......................................... 2-🔔 

While searching for a place to share a meal, I wanted to take a break from French cuisine and was specifically looking for a healthier option. That’s when I came across this Israeli restaurant. Having been to Israel many times, I remembered how much emphasis they place on fresh vegetables and vibrant greens—exactly what I was in the mood for.

Interestingly, as we approached the restaurant, it immediately looked familiar. Turns out, we had been there when it first opened a couple of years ago. I remembered it being a scorching day, and with no A/C, I never got around to reviewing it—but I did remember the food being good. This time, I made sure to take notes.

The restaurant is small and located in the heart of the Marais district in Paris. It’s cozy, with tightly arranged tables and seating for maybe 20 guests. Nothing fancy—because here, it’s really all about the food.

Note: The dishes are designed for sharing, which is what we did. I'll only review the ones I personally tasted.

Cherrywood smoked sardines, preserved lemon, garlic Hebrew salsa and cumin yogurt 
Sardines usually come with bold, punchy flavors—vinegar, oil, and salt that essentially "cure" them. But this dish was a pleasant surprise and completely defied my expectations. These were definitely not canned sardines. The cherrywood smoking gave them a subtle depth without the usual overpowering tang. The garlic salsa added a vibrant, herbal freshness that really elevated the dish, and the cumin yogurt brought it all together. A very well-balanced plate.

Homemade hummus made with tahini, whole chickpeas, and cumin

I love hummus—and I still dream about the best one I’ve ever had in Jaffa, Israel. While nothing may ever top that, this version was good. It was smooth, earthy, and thankfully not over-salted, which I appreciated given my low-sodium diet, doctor's orders. It could’ve used just a touch more lemon for brightness, but the drizzle of olive oil and the garnish of fresh greens added a lovely freshness. Solid dish overall.

Roasted beets & homemade labane, za'atar, green chili condiment
At first glance, the beets were hidden beneath a generous mound of arugula, so the dish can be a bit deceiving to the eye. The arugula was lightly tossed in a bright, citrusy vinaigrette, which paired beautifully with the sweetness of the beets. The beets themselves were seasoned with za’atar—a fragrant Middle Eastern spice blend that added depth without overpowering. A creamy touch of labane, a tangy cheese made from yogurt, rounded out the dish. Altogether, a well-balanced and refreshing plate—especially if you enjoy this mix of sweet, tangy, and herbal flavors.

Roasted butternut squash with zaatar, butternut pickles, feta, pomegranate and chive oil
The butternut squash was perfectly roasted, with just the right amount of caramelization to bring out its natural sweetness. The pomegranate vinaigrette added a gentle tartness without overpowering the dish, and the chive oil was subtle enough to let the squash remain the star of the plate. Simple, balanced, and very well executed—a lovely dish.

Charred eggplant, feta, walnuts, capers, and za'atar paprika
I’ll admit—I love anything eggplant, so I might be a bit biased here. That said, this dish was beautifully done. The eggplant was perfectly cooked, with a soft texture that contrasted nicely with the crunch of the feta and the burst of sweetness from the pomegranate seeds. The paprika za’atar sauce was flavorful without being overpowering, and it really enhanced the natural richness of the eggplant. Another standout dish.

Fish of the day cooked in a ras le hanout sauce, miso tahina, tarragon pesto, chickpeas and smoked paprika oil.
This was the dish I ordered—and yet another one cleverly hidden beneath a bed of greens. But underneath was a real gem. I don’t recall exactly which fish it was, but it was a light, firm white fish—likely cod or bream—served in small, tender bite-sized pieces. The le hanout sauce added a warm, aromatic depth that really carried the dish. I didn’t catch much of the tahina, but the tarragon pesto came through nicely, adding a subtle herbal note. The fresh greens gave it a light, vibrant finish. I thoroughly enjoyed this one.

SUMMARY

It’s not a fancy restaurant by any means—just down-to-earth, wholesome food. Because it’s such a small space, they do turn tables, which I usually try to avoid. But we had the last lunch seating at 2 PM, so there was no pressure to rush, which made all the difference.

If you’re looking to take a break from French cuisine and want a meal that’s not only satisfying but also lighter and herb-forward, with plenty of fresh vegetables and greens, this is definitely a place worth trying.

Would we go back, absolutely. 

With 1-beets, 1-sardine, 2-butternut, 2-humuus, 1-eggplant, 2-chickens, 1-fish balls, 1-fish, 1-Shakshuka, 2-orders of pita bread, 3-sodas, 4-lemon/mint drinks (non-alcoholic), 2-cappucinos and 1 double espresso our bill for 6-people came to €273.50 or, rounding-up €46 each. 

Brasserie AUTEIL (Rooftop & cocktail bar) -- Restaurant Review

For address, menu and general information, see website: https://www.auteuil-brasserie.com/menus-carte/?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=GMB&utm_campaign=AUT&y_source=1_MTE2NjUxOTEtNzE1LWxvY2F0aW9uLndlYnNpdGU%3D

Rating Standards: 5-Stars = Extraordinary; 4-Stars = Excellent; 3-Stars = Average; 2-Stars = Fair; 1-Star = Poor € = Inexpensive: 30€ and under; €€ = Moderate: 31€-49€; €€€ = Expensive: €50 -75; €€€€ = Very Expensive: more than €76 (prices based on minimum 2-courses)

1-Bell = Pleasantly quiet (less than 65 decibels); 2-Bells = Can talk easily (65-70); 3-Bells = Talking normally gets difficult (70-80); 4-Bells = Can talk only in raised voices (75-90); BOMB = Too noisy for normal conversation (90+)

4 - star ...........................€€.......................................... 2-🔔 

We had a planning meeting with close friends at his home in the 16eme. Now if you know the stereotypes of the 16eme arronidissment, let's such say it's known for "where old people retire and ...." 

After we all agreed on a plan, our friend suggested this restaurant. I was completely taken aback by this area. It was young, hip and sort of happening. 

This restaurant is spacious from an outdoor terrace for al fresco dining and boasts a lively rooftop dining— arguably the place to be. It's impressively large; if I didn’t know better, I might have mistaken it for a spot in the U.S. We however ate downstairs. Even more surprising is that it has a full bar, making it a great place to enjoy a reasonably priced cocktails.

The restaurant is known for its quick service and fresh ingredients. The menu draws inspiration from countries surrounding the Mediterranean, offering everything from hearty pastas to salads made with ancient grains — a healthy alternative to the rich, indulgent dishes often associated with French cuisine.

Keftas de boeuf

boeuf normand, houmous sésame, taboulé de blé vert à la menthe, oignons rouges au sumac, tomates confites, mayonnaise harissa. Three of us ordered this dish, and I have to say — it was absolutely delicious. Every ingredient tasted fresh. The kefta sat atop a hidden gem of creamy hummus, surrounded by a vibrant green wheat tabbouleh mixed with mint, onions, and sun-ripened tomatoes. A bold touch of harissa mayonnaise added just the right amount of heat, and a light sprinkle of sesame seeds brought it all together. Not only did it feel like a healthy choice, it was genuinely satisfying and full of flavor.

Salade freekeh. Two people at our table ordered this vegetarian dish, a vibrant mix of green wheat tabbouleh with mint, Datterino tomatoes, Kalamata olives, cucumber, radish, PDO feta, and a zesty sumac and lime vinaigrette.

I had a taste and found it incredibly fresh and seasonal. JJ described it as very flavorful, and I can imagine it’s also quite healthy.

1769 Clos Venturi Rouge (Red) – Corsica

Grape Variety: Often made from Niellucciu (a cousin of Sangiovese), with possible blends including Sciaccarellu or Grenache.

Appearance: Medium ruby with bright clarity.

Nose: Aromas of red berries (raspberry, cherry), Mediterranean herbs, hints of leather, earth, and subtle spice.

Palate: Medium-bodied with lively acidity and fine-grained tannins. 😜 of cherry, wild strawberry, and dried herbs, with a mineral backbone reflecting the granite soils of Corsica.

Finish: Clean, earthy, and slightly savory with good length.

JJ has had, and loved several Corsican wines before but this was a bit disappointing. 

SUMMARY

What a great find in the 16ème! If you're looking for a good, inexpensive, quick, and healthy meal, this is the place for you. Many Americans will appreciate the full bar and the variety of dining options — whether it's on the terrace, inside, or up on the rooftop. It’s a lively, youthful spot, and we fit right in! 🤣😉

We ordered 3 kefta dishes, 2 freekeh salads, and a bottle of wine — the total came to about €30 per person. An absolute bargain. Would we come back? Without a doubt.

Note: The restaurant is so spacious, I doubt you’ll need a reservation.

Jouvence -- Restaurant Review

 

For general information, menus, directions and reservations check their website: https://www.jouvence.paris/accueil#1

Rating Standards: 5-Stars = Extraordinary; 4-Stars = Excellent; 3-Stars = Average; 2-Stars = Fair; 1-Star = Poor € = Inexpensive: 30€ and under; €€ = Moderate: 31€-49€; €€€ = Expensive: €50 -75; €€€€ = Very Expensive: more than €76 (prices based on minimum 2-courses)

1-Bell = Pleasantly quiet (less than 65 decibels); 2-Bells = Can talk easily (65-70); 3-Bells = Talking normally gets difficult (70-80); 4-Bells = Can talk only in raised voices (75-90); BOMB = Too noisy for normal conversation (90+)

4.75 - star ...........................€€.......................................... 3-🔔 

These are the same friends who introduced us to L'Antre Amis, so when they recommended this spot on their last visit, we didn’t hesitate—they’re batting a perfect 1000 so far.

Now, here’s where things took a very me turn. As everyone knows, I have the directional instincts of a confused squirrel. I confidently told our two friends—that the restaurant was in their neighborhood. I somehow confused the 17ème with the 12ème (minor detail, right?). So, thanks to my geographical mix-up, they ended up schlepping across the entire city, which took them nearly an hour.

Fortunately, they know me well enough to just laugh it off. Getting lost is basically part of the experience when you're with me.

The empty table you see above is our table. It's a cute restaurant, but small. I counted the number of seats and there were only 26 seats. So, it's quite intimate.

We went for lunch, and while the menu isn’t as extensive as it is at dinner (you can check their website under “Information” for details), the prices are very reasonable. Their prix-fixe lunch—which includes entrée, main course, and dessert—is just €28. If you opt for only two courses, it’s €23. Either way, it’s a great deal.

Asperges blanches façon mimosa, croûtons, ail des ours. (White asparagus mimosa style, croutons, wild garlic). A simple dish, beautifully presented. Before my heart surgery, I might have found it under-seasoned (not enough salt), but for me now, it was perfect. I’m guessing they used some wild garlic leaves, which added a subtle, aromatic flavor. The grated egg yolk was a lovely touch, and the croutons brought in just the right amount of crunch. I thought it was a hit.

Cabillaud roti, courgette, pois chiche, citron confit, tomates cerises, sarriette (Roasted cod, zucchini, chickpeas, preserved lemon, cherry tomatoes, savory)  All three of us (JJ had the chicken, which was excellent too) agreed—this was an exceptionally well-composed dish. It started with a base of vibrant tomato coulis, topped with a neat row of blanched zucchini and lightly roasted cherry tomatoes. Scattered throughout were tender, perfectly cooked chickpeas that added a lovely earthiness.

The star of the show, of course, was the cod. It wasn’t overly salty, as cod often can be. Instead, it was incredibly tender while still holding its shape—and impressively moist. Every element complemented the others beautifully. A solid A+ from our table.

Ganache chocolate, financier, praline, emulsion cafe (Ganache chocolate, financier, praline, coffee emulsion) Since I was already getting full, I opted for the sweet dessert, thinking it might be lighter than the one served with cheese and bread. When you hear “ganache,” you usually imagine a dense, rich chocolate mass—but this one surprised me. It had a mousse-like quality: light, airy, and far less heavy than expected. I’m guessing they used a lighter cream and incorporated plenty of air during whipping. Whatever the technique, it was absolutely delicious.

The coffee emulsion cream was equally airy and pleasantly subtle—not too sweet. And the little slices of financier were a lovely bonus, adding just the right touch to finish the meal.

The bread served was absolutely one of the best we've ever had, and when we mentioned it to the waiter he indicated they make their own bread.

Note: No reviews on wines, since everyone ordered a different glass with their meal.

So for 3-glasses of wine, 1-bottle of sparkling water, 2x€28 (3-courses) prefix-fixe 3-courses), 2X€23 (prix-fixe 2-courses), 1 dessert, 2 coffees and extra cream our total bill came to €156 or €39/pp.

SUMMARY 

Thanks to our friends from Nice—what a great find! We don’t usually venture out to the 12ème arrondissement, as it’s a bit of a schlepp on the metro. We live on the other end of Paris, so it's not exactly around the corner. But if this lunch was just a glimpse of what their menu has to offer, we’d absolutely come back for dinner.

The restaurant is small—just 26 seats—so reservations are a must. It’s also recommended by the Bib Gourmand Michelin guide, which is always a good sign. It can get noisy, but we noticed all the other diners were French, which suggests it’s a true neighborhood gem.

The food? Excellent. And the prices? Very, very reasonable, especially considering the quality and care in each dish. Depending on where you're staying, it’s definitely worth the trek.