Created in 1903, this legendary Paris establishment has seen many illustrious guest in its time, including Picasso, Mistinguett, Michel Galabru, Saint-Exupéry, Pope John XXIII and even… the Queen of England, no doubt wishing to assuage her curiosity as to why those bloody “frogs” were so mad about the legs of a little green amphibian. Recently taken over by the welcoming François Pagot, former manager of the Café Beaubourg opened by the Costes brothers, the location enjoys a brand new setting while retaining its bistro identity, with soft lighting, exposed stone, worn wood tables and chairs, and period photos on the walls. The menu has been refreshed and even a little diversified with a handful of bistro classics, like egg meurette, nice and runny in its delicious red wine and lardon sauce (€11), slivered marinated Saint-Jacques scallops (€13), pot-au-feu stew (€23), knife-cut “Polmard” beef tartar (€19) or the excellent Paris-Brest pastry (€12). But without wanting to be bigger than the ox, the frog (fresh and sourced in France!) remains the true star, served as fritôts (€25) or fried ravioli (€16) for starters, or in a delicious persillade as a main dish (€35). At lunch, neighborhood publishers and gallery owners rub elbows with merry tourists to take advantage of the incredible starter + dish+ dessert prix-fixe menu at only €19. A real bargain!
Noon to 2:30pm and 7pm to 11pm Open daily Closed Sunday and Monday for lunch Average price: €50
