Raffi M.
Yelp
We first came to La Grande Ourse (the big dipper, not the big bear, as it might first seem)3 years ago, on our last trip to Paris, and discovered the extraordinary cooking of Denis Croset, the formerly michelin starred chef now withdrawn into the confines of a tiny, homey restaurant on the delightfully residential Rue George Sachet. The welcome was great too - Chef Croset's wife is friendly, efficient, and loves New York, where she lived for years before returning to France. So when we went back to France last week, La Grande Ourse was our first stop.
The food is still fantastic. Croset is a complete master at cooking protein. Every fish or meat I've ever had from his kitchen (in which he is often alone, so you can be sure he is cooking your food himself) has been completely on point. Pink when I want pink, flakey when I want flakey, tender when tender is right, and crunchy when that is called for. Don't wait for this restaurant to deliver fusion, or sous vide, or the trompe l'oueil that are in so much vogue these days elsewhere. This is solid, straightforward cooking with no artifice whatever. But it is truly good, truly delicious and extremely well priced.
No to mention that the service is still delightful. We were recognized despite having come twice 3 years ago, had a wonderful chat, and a happy meal. Do yourself a favor and visit. Sit outside.