Hart P.
Yelp
Le Relais is a one horse show. You come to France (Paris) and you want steak and fries, that's what you get. Pretty good, too. Our only options were drinks, limited list of wines along with a full bar, and desert, 8 items. When I visited chocolate or strawberry focused.
A sterotypical French restaurant on the inside, if there is room you will be seated right away. But that is not likely to happen, a line starts forming by 6pm and they don't open for dinner til 7p. Snugged right up against each other, the tables are pulled out so those sitting along the wall can be seated. Then they are trapped til the meal is over.
Almost right away, you will be presented with a salad and bread. I believe the dressing was walnut horseradish. During this time, your drink order will be taken and then on cue the main course arrives: steak and fries (frites). You have the option of rare or medium (which is still pretty red). The sauce is excellet and it isn't bad on the fries either.
I ended the meal with a shell filled with vanilla ice cream, fresh strawberries and whipped cream. I do not regret having it.
The staff is numerous and know their part perfectly. Many have conversational English and probably some other languages. Nothing is slowing them down.
Once your meal is finished you will have the check presented.
Overall, French dining is very relaxed and social, even in the busiest places. Le Relais is the most industrial experience I have had. Being from the US I am used to it, but the France I want a more local experience.