Le Dix-Huit

Situated on the fringes of the beaux quartiers, Le Dix-Huit is by necessity a rather chic affair. It's smartly done up in tasteful monochrome and artfully positioned pot plants, and the glass roof in the back makes for an agreeably bright dining space.

The attention to detail extends to the dishes. Filipino chef Aaron Islip has hit upon a winning formula of Asian-inspired fusion fare, which changes daily according to his whims and the availability of ingredients. It's a bit of a lottery: we struck gold with a starter of Romanesco broccoli soup and suckling pig croquette, followed by a main course of lemon sole fillet served with a sesame and pattypan sauce. Both were delectable, if on the small side. Prices are sensible if you stick to the lunch set menu, which goes for €19-€24. Otherwise, expect to pay anything between €12 and €30 for starters and mains.

Our one bugbear? The sluggish service, which stretched what was meant to be a quick pit stop into an hour-and-a-half-long repast. We hope this is a one-off, for Le Dix-Huit has all the makings of a neat little eaterie.