La Faille

At a time when seemingly every new restaurant in Paris is going for a Brooklyn-chic aethetic, it’s refreshing to find somewhere that’s carving out its own look – namely, that of a building that’s just been half-torn apart by an earthquake. Walking in, you’ll first be struck by the architecture, all cracked ceilings and crooked flooring. The room’s filled out with simple wooden furnishings and neon lights, all of which makes for an invitingly kooky décor.

The menu may dismay you at first glance – we’re talking €15 starters, €22 main courses, and no set menus to soften the blow – but rest assured: your disappointment will dissolve with your first bite. We tried the crispy chicken with polenta, and the scallops with dark rice and citrus sauce, and hugely enjoyed both. A rice pudding-tapioca hybrid rounded off the feast. The waiters were exemplary throughout, greeting us with smiles and seeing us off with a complimentary side dish to accompany our coffees. Bang for your buck, then, but perhaps more suited to an evening date than to a quick lunchtime meal.