

4

"Stepping foot in here is like stepping foot into a painfully cool Parisian wine bar. The interiors feel vaguely midcentury modern, the bar is stocked with bottles you've never heard of, and the welcoming staff is ready to bring you on an adventure through seasonal food paired with the best of French wines. The food is French without the fuss. Everything is prepared fresh, using local and seasonal ingredients. There's a beef tartare made all the more decadent with bone marrow and crispy baguette crackers. If you know where to look, there are a few subtle nods to chef and co-owner Martine Bauer's Mauritian roots, like a dusting of zaatar on whipped ricotta, or scallops crudo brought to life with a vanilla and cauliflower puree and brown butter drizzle. The whole Quebec duck breast slathered with dates and just is a highlight, as is the cult classic burger au poivre." - Todd Plummer