"Ancient cash register? Check. Brass wall sconces? Check. Coat hooks hung so low they could’ve been installed for Napoleon? Those are here, too. This blink-and-you’ll-miss-it bistro near the Place de la Bastille is perfect for a traditional French meal. Expect simple starters like crispy fried mushrooms and artichoke hearts doused in butter and plated with zero flair, practically just-plucked sucrine lettuce served with a creamy mustard dressing, and mains like a fist-sized chicken cordon bleu. All dishes come with either thin and crispy frites, a whipped potato purée, or green beans. And while you’re the boss, waiters won’t hesitate to steer you towards what they recommend. (Fries for the hanger steak, purée for the Provençal beef stew.) " - sara lieberman, lindsey tramuta