Monjul

Tucked into a secluded passageway off the Rue des Blancs-Manteaux, this little restaurant – with its fabulous six-course tasting menu fixed at €55 – brings fresh air to a neighbourhood stifled by overpriced cafés and concept clothing stores. A long, softly lit space with exposed stone walls and cushioned banquette seating, Monjul is gourmet bistro dining at its finest and most approachable. The three-course lunch menu, which changes daily, is also very affordable at just €20.

We visited to sample lunch: on this day, foie gras-stuffed ravioli with cream of vegetable soup, cumin-infused chicken confit and a pear mille-feuille for dessert. The three courses were delicious and perfectly balanced, making for a very filling meal. Monjul is exceptionally good value (especially considering that chef Julien Agobert worked for 20 years in opulent ‘palace’ restaurants like the Plaza Athénée), and a great option for those interested in expanding their gastronomic horizons without breaking the bank in the process.