If you want to start experimenting with halal, or if you simply like this type of cooking, L'Echappée Belle is the ideal spot for you. Creators Rachid Kadi and François Bonte are big on attention to detail and have succeeded in making their restaurant a tranquil, convivial oasis. Wooden tables, lighting that changes depending on the time of day and tables set up for discreet socialising, plus beautiful white curtains to shield you from prying eyes. Everything is comfortable, design-focused and cosy. On weekends, a jazz pianist puts the final note on this harmonious combination.
The menu, designed by former chef at la Bellevilloise, is all organic and seasonal. The flavours, especially in the starters of pumpkin soup and salmon tartar, really surprised us, and all meat is all sourced from the local halal butcher. The sublime desserts are revisited classics, such as cheesecake with red fruit coulis or pumpkin and ginger crumble. The menu changes often, no doubt with more infallibly delicious homemade delights.
Those who want to continue the evening in a more discreet manner will be happy to learn that L'Echappée Belle has a little secret: a basement room for smoking shisha in beautiful armchairs. The Douanier Rousseau wallpaper gives the room a winter garden vibe and you can also watch sport on the big screens – which are strangely in keeping with the decor. Expect to feel well and truly escaped from Paris.
TRANSLATION: MEGAN CARNEGIE