La Maison Bleue

If you’re after a vibe that’s more Langue d’oc beach bar than inner-city bistro, this charming restaurant near the Gare du Nord will do quite nicely. A large sun-drenched terrace, faux wooden interior and servers dressed in blue polos all contribute to its relaxing seaside-y atmosphere, while customers sit back in comfy leather seats and Maison Gatti wicker chairs, peering out onto the stunning Église Saint-Vincent-de-Paul. The two-course lunch menu (€16.50) offers a wide range of Parisian bistro classics like their Breton sardines with braised veg, a Capelin pork sausage flanked by a gorgeous potato puree, or a decent-value Caesar salad (€13.50). Desserts, meanwhile, include things like a freshly prepared cheesecake, which is decent but not outstanding.

TRANSLATION: HUW OLIVER