I became aware of several traditional French brasseries and bistrots owned and operated by some of the most celebrated chefs in France after a longtime Parisian friend clued me in several years ago. I’ve written about a few of these classic spots in the past and thought it would be helpful to do a round-up post. Not in any particular order, here are a few of my favorites:
Cyril Lignac │Le Chardenoux
Le Chardenoux first opened in 1908. Its original décor has been beautifully restored and provides the perfect backdrop for an equally extraordinary meal. It is owned and operated by Cyril Lignac, the inspired author of many cookbooks and star of the hit television show Top Chef.
The cuisine highlights traditional cuisine with a touch of creativity. Over the course of a few visits, I’ve tried several dishes and have never been disappointed.
Le Chardenoux 1 rue Jules-Vallès – 75011 Paris Tel: +33 1 43 71 49 52
François Vallejo │Le Thoumieux
Brasserie Thoumieux is an institution of left bank life. Opened in 1923 by the Thoumieux family, updated in 2009 by Thierry Costes, and re-opened in 2021, the talented chef François Vallejo – who formerly worked at “Manko” near Pont Alexandre III and “CoCo” at the Opera Garnier – continuously ensures traditional French cuisine of quality and modernity. Featuring red velvet bench seats, hardwood floor, and carved moldings, the interior has a slightly contemporary atmosphere.
Thoumieux offers everything one could want in brasserie fare, including piano music on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings and a delicious brunch on Sundays.
Le Thoumieux 79, rue Saint Dominique – 75007 Paris Tel: +33 1 47 05 49 75
Eric Frechon │LAZARE
Located in the Gare Saint-Lazare, LAZARE is a warm and welcoming environment with a menu of authentic, homestyle French dishes. Éric Frechon – a three-star chef from the Bristol – had the vision and moxy to venture in a train station nearly six years ago. It’s been a success ever since. The industrial-chic décor features modern hardwoods, copper, brass, and leather with touches of mid-century design.
It’s the perfect rendez-vous spot any time of day.
Lazare Parvis de la Gare Saint-Lazare Rue Intérieure – 75008 Paris Tel: +33 1 44 90 80 80
Alain Ducasse │ Allard
For more than 80 years, Allard has been one of the most sought-after gourmet addresses in Paris. Located in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, it remains one of the last authentic French gourmet bistros. Today still, the establishment is filled with the spirit of Marthe Allard, « mother cook » who founded the restaurant in 1932. Allard is above all the story of a peasant from the Burgundy region who traveled up to Paris carrying her sincere and generous family recipes.
Allard 41, rue Saint-André des Arts – 75006 Paris Tel: +33 1 43 26 48 23
Alain Ducasse │ Benoit
Benoit first opened its doors in 1912 and remained in the Petit family for three generations. It is truly one of the most charming Belle Epoque bistrots in Paris. The décor features hardwoods, brass, mirrors, velvet benches, and tightly packed tables. Each element, right up to the plates monogramed plates, contributes to the character of the house. In 2005, it was sold to Alain Ducasse.
Originally a “bouchon lyonnais” the traditional French food is absolutely delicious.
Benoit 20 rue Saint-Martin –75004 Paris Tel: +33 1 42 72 25 76
Leave a Reply