Le Maquis

"Open for: Lunch and dinnerPrice range: $$Located in the tranquil 18th arrondissement far from the crowds of tourists around Sacré-Coeur and the Place du Tertre, this laidback neighborhood bistro pulls a discerning crowd of locals and word-of-mouth customers from other parts of Paris for the excellent bistro cooking of Paul Boudier and Albert Touton. Many of the dishes have a Southern French or Italian accent, including superb house-made pastas, ceviche with shavings of poutargue (bottarga), and pork belly cooked in cider with roasted fennel. Located in the 18th arrondissement.Vibe check: This is where the chefs go on their night off." - Alexander Lobrano

"At lunchtime, this old-school bistro serves excellent classics, like leek-vinaigrette and roast chicken. But for a true dining spectacle, reserve a table at dinner and gobble down the €70, seven-course chef’s choice smörgåsbord influenced by cuisines from around the globe. You might get steamed langoustines served with habanero mayo, followed by a tureen of homey bean and cabbage soup to share. Or maybe you’ll dig into veal sweetbreads with tonnato sauce before some mackerel sushi. Grab a few friends who don’t turn their noses up at eating nose, add the €40 wine pairing, and plan on staying inside the convivial dining room decked out with a zinc bar and tiled floors til they close." - Emily Monaco

"Paul Boudier and Albert Touton, both formerly at Le Chateaubriand, deliver delicious, no-frills cuisine at unbeatable value for money! A menu packed with bistro fare – velouté, pureed sausage, an indulgent crumble – and an old-school setting (with the typical zinc counter and leatherette banquette seating) make for a friendly and lively atmosphere. Irresistible!" - Michelin Inspector

"More recently, Black French chefs in Paris are exploring their interpretation of soul food at spots like Le Maquis and Gumbo Yaya." - Osayi Endolyn