Les Arlots

"Open for: Lunch and dinnerPrice range: $$The neighborhood near the Gare du Nord train station is nondescript, and this tiny bistro à vins packs its clients in like sardines. No one minds the humdrum location or the crowd, though, because the restaurant serves some of the best and most reasonably priced French comfort food in Paris. Chef Thomas Brachet’s chalkboard menu changes daily but always offers an irresistible mix of contemporary dishes — like a salad of green beans, apricots, speck, and fresh almonds, or John Dory meuniere with vegetable accras (beignets) — and traditional options, which may include langoustines with house-made mayonnaise. The stuffed cabbage and rice pudding with cinnamon and orange shouldn’t be missed either. Be sure to book a few days ahead of time. Located in the 10th arrondissement.Must-try dish: The city’s ultimate sausage and mashed potatoes." - Alexander Lobrano

"The mid-trot taxidermied piglet standing watch over the front door of this tiny bistro might make you do a double take—especially once you get your plate of complimentary saucisson slices. But the cozy ambiance, nostalgic French comfort food, and friendly staff who may even use the informal “tu” will make you feel like a regular. The short menu revolves around updates to bistro old-reliables like egg-mayo punched up with black garlic and smoked eel, or pan-fried sweetbreads paired with celery root mousseline and shiitake mushrooms. The only constant is the saucisse-purée, a gorgeous herb-infused sausage served with silky mashed potatoes filled with a jus so thick it’s almost sticky. There’s no wine list (bottles line the shelves along the back wall), but the servers will be more useful in helping you pick a natural glass than the forty framed ortolans staring down at you." - emily monaco

"The mid-trot taxidermied piglet standing watch over the front door of this tiny bistro might make you do a double take—especially once you get your plate of complimentary saucisson slices. But the cozy ambiance, nostalgic French comfort food, and friendly staff who may use the informal “tu” will make you feel like a regular. The short menu revolves around updates to bistro old-reliables like egg-mayo punched up with black garlic and smoked eel, or pan-fried sweetbreads paired with celery root mousseline and shiitake mushrooms. The only constant is the saucisse-purée, a gorgeous herb-infused sausage served with silky mashed potatoes filled with a jus so thick it's almost sticky. There's no wine list (bottles line the shelves along the back wall)—but the servers will be more useful in helping you pick a natural glass than the forty framed ortolans staring down at you." - Emily Monaco

"Located close to the Gare du Nord, Les Arlots has solidified its place among the elite ranks of bistros that are worth their salt in the capital. Its tightly packed tables and cosy interior make it the perfect place for a meal with friends. Replete with seasonal ingredients, the cooking does not cut corners, putting the focus squarely on the pleasure of a good meal." - The MICHELIN Guide

"I really like this place, with its convivial atmosphere and flawless bistro dishes from humble beginnings. The saucisse-purée is my favourite, hands down. This kind of establishment is an essential part of the sort of dining scene we have in Paris." - The MICHELIN Guide