Crouch End, French Restaurant Guide

“Lovely food, lovely atmosphere and discreet staff” are the attractions at this “local” bistro, a Crouch End fixture for more than 20 years. “Love it! The rooms are like a maze”, with white tablecloths adding a touch of style.

“A diamond gem of the neighbourhood!” – this “unique”, if “tiny and cramped” traditional Gallic bistro in Crouch End is “always a joy”, according to most of the many who comment on it. “Chef Robert and FOH Jean-Christophe are simply wonderful” (“two guys having fun on their own terms”) and “the interaction with the owners and French retro-cooking served with real enthusiasm make for a really delightful experience” (and one that’s “pretty good value considering the quality”). More cautions reporters like it, but say “it’s fine if you treat it as a local bistro that’s good but not exceptional all round” (“we ourselves do not visit for the quality of the cuisine, but it’s the lovely and jolly service and the liveliness of the atmosphere that justify the 30-mile round trip from Theydon Bois!”). Fans, though, say it’s sheer “perfection”: “if I lived nearby I’d go every night!”. Top Menu Tips – “perfect onion soup”; excellent rib-eye with peppercorn sauce; “beautifully rich Tarte Tatin”.