L'Alibi

This little bar near the mayor’s office in the 18th is very low-key, but it’s worth a mention because it stands out from so many other Parisian brasseries that, thanks to renovations, have lost their charm. Here, the original features are still intact: the large wood-paneled front window, the chrome counter and the mosaic floor, all of which add to the place’s appeal. Choose your seating from wooden tables and chairs at the front and second-hand sofas at the back; there is no overriding decorative concept, but that's why it works. The friendly, bearded, longhaired waiters listen to rock, metal, funk and soul depending on the evening, while locals of all ages lean up against the bar chatting. Outside, a lovely terrace comes into its own on summer days, especially when the big windows at the front are rolled back to let in the light. The cartoon-paneled toilets will delight comic strip fans.