After a job in Paris many years ago, the local producer, who was a foodie and knew all the cool hipster spots, took us to Le Relais de l’Entrecôte - kinda a high end chain, touristy spot. He had this mischivious smile on his face as our misgivings and preconceptions melted away - we were actually very impressed with the steak frites (which is all they serve). He said it was a spot he often took customers to to put everything on its head when it comes to expectations. Great steak frites, if you don’t mind looking like a tourist.
We were in Paris right before Covid shut everything down and stayed close to Le Comptoir as well. We discovered they are now open all day. I don’t recall that from previous visits but I may be mistaken. We were exhausted the first night after our flight so ate there for an early dinner. Maybe around 5:00 or so. Sat outside and pretty much had the place to ourselves. Food was great. It’s game season so they probably have livre a la royale which I enjoy but it’s not for everyone. Then back to the hotel and to bed fairly early.
Le Comptoir was mentioned had a good lunch there. It is pretty packed in though and there is usually a line. List is tiny. Not as good as it was precovid.
For a fancier 1* meal where the kids would be OK http://lesclimats.fr Obviously Burgundy focused list. Took my kids there when they were a little older than yours.
FYI - we did make reservations but were there on a weekend. Most everywhere in Paris was pretty crowded except the really large Cafés. Don’t know if those will be an option weather wise while you are there and might drive more people inside. I know it is hard with kids but I would try for reservations.
I assume you applied for the French Pass Sanitaire?
can’t apply anymore - my application was pending for over 45 days. My wife’s was approved immediately.
As of November, you have to go to a designated pharmacy and pay 39e for the pass.
Yeah I know I gotta make a res but I have no clue how my kid is gonna deal with jet lag the first few days. So trying to find places for walk ins. Wine is not a focus this trip so good/bad wine lists don’t really matter unfortunately.
Technically in the 5th, but just above the Pantheon so if you’re doing a walking tour and hitting there and Luxembourg Gardins: (also from 3 years ago, before Notre Dame burned, etc…)
Nouvelle Mairie- lots of natural wine influence to the list, a fair number of funky hipster names but also good standards. Very casual, almost a residential/neighborhood restaurant vibe, food wasn’t pretentious but very enjoyable I thought. Had Cantillon on draft, which sucked me in immediately, and some other small production regional beers.
Also a block from a small but very good wine store, Caves du Pantheon.
Galley setup upstairs with a bigger hangout space downstairs, very tidy 16 line draft lineup with a fair number of bottles. Found them because the somm at Nouvelle Mairie was also a brewer and R&M had some of his stuff. No food, just a place to hang with a couple pints, but so many other places for food just steps away you won’t miss it.