Discover London's Best French Bistro Gems for an Authentic Taste

Fancy a trip to France without leaving London? You're in luck. The city is packed with spots that do French food really well, from fancy places to more laid-back joints. Whether you're after a classic steak frites, some snails, or just a good glass of wine with some cheese, there's a French bistro out there for you. We've rounded up some of the best French bistros in London to help you find your next favourite meal.

Key Takeaways

• London boasts a wide array of French bistros, catering to various tastes and budgets.

• From traditional Lyonnaise cuisine to modern interpretations, these spots offer authentic French flavours.

• Many bistros focus on classic dishes like steak frites, onion soup, and escargots.

• The atmosphere in these establishments ranges from grand brasserie settings to intimate, cosy eateries.

• Look out for places with a strong emphasis on quality ingredients and traditional French techniques for the best experience.

1. Camille

Camille, tucked away near Borough Market, is a lovely spot that really captures the essence of a French bistro without feeling like a stuffy imitation. It’s from the same people behind Ducksoup and Little Duck The Picklery, so you know there’s a good pedigree there.

The vibe is relaxed, but the food is seriously French, using local British ingredients. Think classic dishes you’d expect, but with a bit of a twist. They’ve got a chalkboard listing daily specials, which is always a good sign.

When you’re in there, especially after a glass or two of their wine, with the windows all steamy, it genuinely feels like you’ve stepped off a busy London street and landed somewhere in Montmartre. It’s that kind of place.

Here’s a little taste of what you might find:

• Seasonal starters featuring fresh produce.

• Hearty main courses with a French flair.

• A well-curated wine list to complement your meal.

It’s the sort of place where you can easily lose track of time, enjoying good food and good company.

2. Bouchon Racine

Right then, Bouchon Racine. This place has a bit of a reputation, mostly thanks to chef Henry Harris. It’s one of those spots that really leans into the whole ‘bouchon’ idea – you know, the hearty, Lyonnaise style of cooking that’s meant to be comforting and filling. It feels like it’s got history, and a good number of people are really devoted to it.

The menu here is written up on a blackboard, which is always a good sign, and it does change quite a bit. But there are a few things that seem to stick around, like the jambon de noir de bigorre. It’s a cured ham from a special breed of black pigs, apparently from near the Pyrenees. Sounds pretty authentic, doesn’t it?

• Hearty Lyonnaise Cuisine: Expect generous portions and rich flavours.

• Changing Blackboard Menu: Always something new to try, keeping things interesting.

• Focus on Quality Ingredients: Like the heritage breed ham, they seem to care about where their food comes from.

It’s the sort of place where you can really settle in and enjoy a proper French meal without any fuss.

They also do things like frogs' legs and other classic French dishes that are pretty much what you’d expect from a place like this. It’s not trying to be overly fancy, just good, honest French food served in a relaxed atmosphere. Definitely worth a look if you're after that kind of vibe.

3. Josephine

Tucked away in Fulham, Josephine feels like stepping straight into a film set, the kind with Catherine Deneuve perhaps. It's a place that really nails that authentic French bistro vibe. You'll find it's particularly good for Lyonnaise cuisine, with a menu that’s unashamedly hearty and designed for sharing.

It gets pretty lively in here, with tables packed close together, but honestly, that just adds to the charm and the buzzing atmosphere. It’s the sort of place where you can really tuck in and enjoy yourself.

Here's a little taste of what you might find:

• Classic charcuterie boards

• Rich, slow-cooked stews

• Seasonal French specialities

The focus here is on simple, well-executed dishes that let the quality of the ingredients shine through. It’s a proper neighbourhood gem.

4. Casse-Croûte

Tucked away on Bermondsey Street, Casse-Croûte is a proper little slice of France right here in London. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with that unmistakable bistro charm – think classic chequered floors, tablecloths, and walls adorned with vintage French signs. It really feels like you’ve hopped on a Eurostar for a quick jaunt.

The menu here is a daily affair, scrawled up on a blackboard in French, naturally. Chef Sylvain Soulard serves up all the bistro classics you’d hope for. You might find yourself starting with a delicate pissaladière or some snails, before diving into a hearty cassoulet or perhaps a slow-cooked pork shoulder. It’s the kind of place where the food is comforting and familiar, yet executed with real skill.

Here’s a peek at what you might expect on their blackboard:

• Starters: Pissaladière, Escargots, Rillettes de Saumon

• Mains: Cassoulet, Confit de Canard, Gigot d'Agneau

• Desserts: Flan Pâtissier, Mille-feuille, Crème Brûlée

Don't forget to explore their entirely French wine list; it’s a great way to complete the authentic experience. It’s a popular spot, so booking ahead is definitely a good idea if you want to secure a table at this charming French restaurant.

5. Bistro Freddie

Tucked away in Shoreditch, Bistro Freddie feels less like a stuffy Parisian institution and more like a friendly get-together with mates who happen to be excellent cooks. It’s got this cool, laid-back vibe that doesn’t feel forced, which is a bit of a rarity these days. The menu isn't huge, but what they do, they do really well. Think simple, tasty dishes that hit the spot.

One of the standout starters has to be the snails. They’re served on a soft flatbread, topped with crispy chicken skin and swimming in tarragon butter. It sounds a bit different, but trust me, it works. It’s the kind of place where you can just relax and enjoy some really good food without any fuss.

The atmosphere here is genuinely welcoming, making it a great spot for a casual meal or a catch-up with friends. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel instantly at home.

If you're after a relaxed dining experience with some seriously tasty French-inspired grub, Bistro Freddie is definitely worth checking out. It’s got that special something that makes you want to go back.

6. Otto's French Restaurant

Tucked away near Russell Square, Otto's is a real throwback to classic French dining. It's the kind of place that makes you feel like you've stepped back in time, with its charming decor featuring little statues and old-fashioned lights. Chef Otto Tepasse really knows his stuff, and the star of the show is often the canard à la presse. It's a bit of a performance, using a special silver press to get all the flavour out of the duck carcass – very nineteenth-century, very special.

But it's not just about the duck. You can also find other traditional dishes that are just as comforting and well-made:

• Roasted French boudin (blood sausage)

• Frogs' legs served with snails

• Lobster soufflé

It’s a place that feels genuinely French, with a warm atmosphere that encourages you to linger over your wine. If you're looking for a taste of old-school French cooking done with real care, Otto's is definitely worth a visit.

This restaurant offers a genuine slice of traditional French cuisine, focusing on classic preparations and a charming, nostalgic setting that transports diners to another era.

7. Brasserie Zédel

Tucked away from the usual Piccadilly Circus buzz, Brasserie Zédel feels like stepping back in time. It’s a grand space, really, with a definite 1930s Parisian vibe, all Art Deco touches and fancy monogrammed linen. It’s one of those places that manages to feel special without costing a fortune, which is always a win.

They do a cracking prix-fixe menu that’s hard to beat. You can go for the classics here, and why wouldn’t you? Think French onion soup, a proper steak haché with peppercorn sauce, or maybe some Alsatian choucroute. And definitely save room for the profiteroles – they’re drenched in chocolate sauce, naturally.

• Prix-fixe menu: Excellent value for a three-course meal.

• Atmosphere: Evokes the grandeur of 1930s Parisian brasseries.

• Classic dishes: Onion soup, steak haché, choucroute, and profiteroles are highlights.

It’s a place that offers a real taste of French dining without the hefty price tag often associated with it. The sheer scale of the dining room is impressive, making it suitable for both a casual lunch and a more celebratory meal.

If you're looking for a taste of classic French cooking in a beautiful setting, Brasserie Zédel is definitely worth a visit. It’s a spot that really captures that authentic French brasserie feel.

8. Upstairs At The French House

Tucked away above the legendary French House pub in Soho, this intimate dining room is a real find. It's run by chef Neil Borthwick, who serves up food that's honest and full of flavour. Forget fussy presentations; this is all about seasonal ingredients treated with respect, giving you a proper taste of France.

What to expect:

• Seasonal, gutsy dishes with Gallic influences.

• A fantastic selection of cheeses.

• Delicious desserts to finish.

The focus here is on stripped-back, flavourful cooking that lets the ingredients shine. It’s the kind of place where you can really savour each bite, perhaps with a glass of wine from their thoughtful list. It feels a bit like a secret, a place for those in the know, offering a more personal dining experience compared to the bustling pub below.

9. LPM Restaurant & Bar

Tucked away in Mayfair, LPM Restaurant & Bar brings a touch of the French Riviera to London. It’s a place that feels quite special, with its elegant decor – think creamy pillars and shiny marble. While it’s definitely on the pricier side, the food here is something else.

They do a fantastic job with French-Mediterranean dishes. You absolutely have to try the snails with garlic butter; they’re so good they might even win over someone who isn't usually a fan of shellfish. The yellowtail carpaccio with guacamole is a bit of a modern twist, but it works brilliantly. And if you’re after classics, their duck à l'orange is cooked to perfection, and the dauphinois potatoes are genuinely some of the best you'll find anywhere.

Here's a little taste of what to expect:

• Snails with garlic butter and parsley

• Yellowtail carpaccio with guacamole and citrus dressing

• Canard à l'orange

• Gratin Dauphinois

While it might seem a bit of a splurge, the quality of the cooking and the overall experience at LPM make it a memorable spot for a treat.

10. 64 Goodge Street

Tucked away on Goodge Street, this place is a bit of a gem for anyone craving proper French cooking. It’s part of that newer wave of London restaurants that feel both classic and really current. You know, the kind of place where the sauces are rich, the meats are hearty, and the whole experience just feels a bit special without being stuffy.

They do a few things really well here. Think along the lines of rich, slow-cooked dishes and perfectly prepared cuts of meat. It’s the sort of food that makes you feel good, leaving you with a pleasant buzz rather than a heavy feeling.

Here’s a little taste of what you might find:

• Richly sauced confit duck

• Perfectly seared steak with a classic accompaniment

• Seasonal vegetable dishes with a French twist

• Decadent desserts to finish

The atmosphere strikes a nice balance between being lively enough for a good night out but also intimate enough for a relaxed meal. It’s a place that feels like it’s got its own character, a real neighbourhood spot that happens to serve excellent French food.

11. Henri

Tucked away within the Henrietta Hotel in Covent Garden, Henri offers a rather chic take on French dining. It's the brainchild of Jackson Boxer, who's known for his straightforward approach to cooking, but don't expect just the usual classics here. Henri manages to be both fun and a bit surprising.

They've got cocktails named after French food icons, which is a nice touch. The food menu is where things get interesting. You might find pig's trotter, but served in a way that's quite different, or little seaweed cakes topped with fish roe. For something more substantial, there's bavette steak, but with a Sichuan peppercorn kick that's not exactly traditional French, but it works.

Henri isn't trying to be a stuffy, old-school French place. It's more about taking familiar ideas and giving them a playful, modern twist that keeps you guessing.

If you're looking for a French meal that's a little bit out of the ordinary, with some creative dishes alongside more familiar ones, Henri is definitely worth a look. It's a good spot if you fancy something a bit different from the usual steak frites.

12. Mon Plaisir

Mon Plaisir is a real Covent Garden institution, you know? It’s been around for ages, and it really feels like stepping back in time, in the best way possible. It’s the kind of place that’s as French as it gets, with a proper old-school vibe.

Lots of theatre folk and people heading to shows seem to end up here, and I can see why. The menu is full of those comforting French classics that just hit the spot. Think garlicky escargots, a hearty tartiflette, or a perfectly made beef tartare. And if you've got a sweet tooth, their mousse au chocolat is usually a winner.

It’s not trying to be fancy or modern; it’s just about good, honest French food served in a place that feels genuinely welcoming. If you're after a taste of traditional France right in the heart of London, Mon Plaisir is definitely worth a visit. It’s a charming spot for a filling meal before or after a performance, offering a pleasant dining experience that feels both authentic and unpretentious.

13. Kettner's

Kettner's, a grand old dame of Soho dining, has been around since 1867. It was actually started by the personal chef to Napoleon III, which is quite a pedigree. After a bit of a detour as a Pizza Express, it's back to its roots as a proper French bistro.

You can expect classic French dishes done well here. Think incredibly creamy cheese soufflés that practically float off the plate, a vibrant steak tartare, and a perfectly executed steak frites with a tarragon-heavy béarnaise sauce. It’s the sort of place that feels both historic and comfortably familiar.

Here's a taste of what you might find:

• Creamy Cheese Soufflé

• Magenta Steak Tartare with Brioche

• Steak Frites with Béarnaise Sauce

It’s a spot that really captures that old-school Soho charm, making it a lovely place for a relaxed meal.

14. Story Cellar

Tucked away near Seven Dials, Story Cellar is a spot that really leans into the classic rotisserie and brasserie vibe you'd find in Paris. It's got this cool, dark marble look that feels quite sophisticated, but the food is all about comforting, well-executed French staples. Think spit-roasted chicken that's perfectly crisp, steak with a proper béarnaise, and generous slabs of terrine. They also do a mean crème brûlée.

It’s the kind of place where you can sit at the counter and just watch the chefs at work, catching the sizzle and the aromas from the wood-fired grills. It feels quite lively and engaging.

• Spit-roasted chicken

• Steak with béarnaise sauce

• Seasonal terrines

• Brown sugar crème brûlée

The atmosphere here is buzzing, especially if you snag a seat at the counter. You get a real sense of the kitchen's energy, which adds to the whole dining experience. It’s not overly fussy, just good food done well in a stylish setting.

15. Pique-Nique

Right, so Pique-Nique. This place is from the same people who run Casse-Croûte, which is already a good sign. You'll find it tucked away in a rather charming mock-Tudor building, right on the edge of Tanner Street Park in Bermondsey. It feels properly French, from the chalked-up menu that lists all the Gallic dishes to the staff who are, well, quite suave.

The food here is all about big, bold, rustic flavours. It’s the kind of cooking that feels really traditional and comforting, like a warm hug on a chilly evening. They've got these wood-fired grills going, and you can hear the chicken skin sizzling away as it rotates on big metal skewers. It’s proper old-school stuff, but done so well that it’s just immensely satisfying.

They really nail that authentic, no-frills French bistro feel. It’s the sort of place where you can just relax and enjoy some seriously good, hearty food without any fuss.

If you're after a taste of rustic France that's both genuine and incredibly tasty, Pique-Nique is definitely worth a visit. It’s a bit of a hidden gem, but one that’s absolutely worth seeking out for a proper French meal.

16. Le Relais de Venise l'Entrecôte

This place is a bit of a legend, really. It started in Paris way back in 1959, and the London branch has kept the whole no-bookings, no-choice thing going strong. You walk in, and you know what you're getting: a simple, perfectly executed meal.

First up, there's a dressed green salad, usually with walnuts and a mustardy vinaigrette. It’s fresh and sets you up nicely. Then comes the main event: the steak. It's served in two generous portions, always with those impossibly crisp, golden fries and their famous secret sauce. Honestly, that sauce is something else – rich, creamy, and utterly addictive.

And don't even think about skipping dessert. The praline ice cream is a must-try, seriously mind-blowing stuff. The house wine is pretty affordable too, which is always a bonus. It’s a classic for a reason, and if you’re after a no-fuss, seriously satisfying French meal, this is definitely one to consider.

• The Menu: A set menu featuring a green salad followed by steak frites.

• The Sauce: A legendary, secret recipe that keeps people coming back.

• The Vibe: Busy, classic, and unapologetically French.

• Desserts: Don't miss the praline ice cream.

17. L'Escargot

Stepping into L'Escargot is like taking a trip back in time. This place has been a fixture in Soho since way back in 1927, and it's famous for being the first restaurant in London to actually serve snails – apparently, the original owner used to farm them in the basement! It’s a proper old-school spot that’s seen its fair share of famous faces over the years, from fashion icons to rock stars.

They do a great line in classic French provincial cooking. Of course, you've got to try the snails, but there's plenty more on offer. Think hearty dishes like braised lamb, steak with a rich béarnaise sauce, and a lovely tart au citron to finish things off. It’s the kind of place that feels both grand and comforting at the same time.

L'Escargot offers a genuine taste of traditional French dining in the heart of Soho, with a history that adds to its unique charm.

18. The Bistro At The Bleeding Heart

Tucked away in Farringdon, The Bistro at The Bleeding Heart offers a genuinely hearty French dining experience. The interior feels like stepping into a rustic French farmhouse, complete with exposed wooden beams and old-school French wine posters adorning the walls. It’s a place that doesn't shy away from classic, comforting dishes.

Expect a menu that champions robust flavours. You might find a rich soupe de poisson served with a generous dollop of cheesy rouille, or perhaps a classic coq au vin or steak frites. They also do a rather good rabbit with mustard sauce, which is a nice change from the usual suspects. The staff are known for being really attentive, which always adds to the meal.

• Must-try dishes often include:Hearty fish soup with rouilleClassic Coq au VinSteak Frites with a punchy sauce

It’s the sort of place where you can really settle in and enjoy a proper, unpretentious French meal. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it perfect for a relaxed evening out.

19. Pétrus

Pétrus, nestled in Belgravia, presents a rather formal dining experience. The room itself is quite something, all soft pinks and greys, creating a sort of cocooning atmosphere. It's part of the Gordon Ramsay group, and you can expect modern French cooking with a focus on high-quality ingredients. Think dishes like confit turbot with smoked potatoes – sounds fancy, right?

It's definitely on the pricier side, so it might be one for a special occasion. However, they do offer a set lunch menu which can be a bit more accessible if you're keen to try it without, you know, breaking the bank entirely. It’s a place where the wine list is also a significant feature, with a notable circular store holding vintages of the titular Château Pétrus.

The overall impression is one of refined elegance and meticulous attention to detail, aiming for a memorable culinary journey.

If you're looking for a truly luxurious French meal in London, Pétrus is certainly a contender. It’s a spot that aims for that top-tier dining experience, and many visitors have reported beautiful and faultless evenings there. It’s a place to savour, perhaps with a glass of something special from their extensive cellar.

20. Balthazar

Stepping into Balthazar feels a bit like being transported straight from Covent Garden to a bustling Parisian brasserie. It’s a real New York import, and you can feel that energetic, cosmopolitan vibe from the moment you walk in. The place is decked out with those classic red leather seats, mirrored walls that make it feel bigger, and lovely mosaic floors. It’s got that perfect mix of French charm and slick American service, making it a great spot for a night out.

They serve food all day, which is handy. You’ll find all the French classics you’d expect, done really well.

• French Onion Soup: Rich, cheesy, and exactly what you need on a chilly evening.

• Steak Tartare: Prepared tableside, it’s a proper show and tastes fantastic.

• Moules et Frites: Plenty of mussels, perfectly cooked, with a generous side of fries.

While it might seem like just another big name, Balthazar really does capture that lively French spirit. It’s a place that feels special without being overly stuffy, and the food is consistently good. Don't dismiss it just because it's a chain; it's a well-executed one.

It’s the kind of place that’s always buzzing, so it’s ideal if you’re looking for a bit of atmosphere with your meal. Definitely worth a visit if you're in the Covent Garden area and fancy a taste of France.

21. The French House

Right, so The French House. This place in Soho has been around forever, like since 1900, and it’s got this real artistic vibe. Apparently, Charles de Gaulle even wrote some important speech there during the war. It’s not just a pub, though; you can head upstairs to their little restaurant. It’s pretty small, but the food is meant to be proper French stuff. Fergus Henderson, the guy behind St. John, actually started cooking there way back in the 90s.

It’s the kind of spot where you can just pop in for a drink downstairs and soak up the atmosphere, or make a proper afternoon of it upstairs with a meal.

The restaurant upstairs is a bit of a hidden gem, offering a more intimate dining experience away from the pub buzz below. It’s a place that feels steeped in history, with a menu that respects classic French cooking.

They do a few things really well, from what I've gathered:

• Confit garlic and goat’s cheese on sourdough – sounds pretty good, right?

• Beef tartare with crispy skin-on French fries – a classic done well.

• Paris-Brest – a lovely choux pastry dessert.

And apparently, you can even get madeleines to take away, which is a nice touch. It’s definitely one of those places that feels authentically London and authentically French at the same time.

22. Noble Rot Soho

Noble Rot Soho is a bit of a wine lover's paradise, really. It's run by the same folks who brought us the original Noble Rot and also put out that rather excellent wine magazine. This place took over the old Gay Hussar spot in Soho, which has its own bit of history.

The food here is really well done, with a focus on French cooking but with some creative twists. Chef Stephen Harris, who's also behind The Sportsman in Whitstable, and Alex Jackson from the sadly missed Sardine, are in charge. You'll find dishes like cold roast veal with anchoïade, or roast chicken with morels. They also do a great armagnac baba for dessert.

Here's a peek at what you might find on the menu:

• Cold roast veal and anchoïade

• Palourde clams, turnips, saucisson and riesling

• Roast chicken, morels and vin jaune (for sharing)

• Armagnac baba with whipped cream

And the wine list? It's pretty special, with loads of great French options. It’s a fantastic spot if you appreciate good wine and food that’s both comforting and a bit exciting. You can find out more about their Soho restaurant on their website.

23. The Ritz

When you think of London institutions, The Ritz has to be up there. It’s not just a hotel; it’s a landmark, and its dining room is something else entirely. Stepping inside feels like you’ve walked onto a film set, all gilded ceilings and chandeliers. It’s definitely a place for a proper occasion, the kind of spot where you dress up and savour every moment.

The food here is classic French, done with a level of polish you’d expect. Think elegant dishes that have stood the test of time. It’s the sort of place that makes you feel a bit special, and honestly, that’s part of the appeal.

• Dress code: Smart attire is a must. Jackets for gentlemen are required in the evening.

• Atmosphere: Grand, opulent, and undeniably glamorous.

• Occasion: Perfect for significant celebrations or when you want to impress.

Dining at The Ritz is an experience in itself. It’s about the theatre of it all, the impeccable service, and the feeling of stepping back into a more glamorous era. While it might not be your everyday bistro, for a taste of refined French dining in an iconic setting, it's hard to beat.

24. Caractère

Tucked away in Notting Hill, Caractère is a real neighbourhood spot that feels like a bit of a secret. It's run by Emily and Diego, who are the daughter and son-in-law of a well-known chef, and you can really feel their passion in the place. They named it Caractère because they both have so much of it, and honestly, it shows in the food and the atmosphere.

It’s the kind of place that feels both special and comfortable, like you’ve stumbled upon something truly authentic. The food is French, of course, but with a personal touch that makes it stand out. They focus on quality ingredients and dishes that are full of flavour, without being overly fussy. It’s a place that’s clearly made with a lot of love.

The restaurant has a warm, inviting feel, making it perfect for a relaxed meal with friends or a quiet dinner for two. It’s a testament to how a restaurant can feel both personal and professional at the same time.

What you'll find here is a menu that changes, but always offers well-executed French classics. Think dishes that are comforting yet refined, prepared with care and served with genuine warmth. It’s not about flashy trends; it’s about good food done right.

• A genuine neighbourhood feel

• Food with a personal, heartfelt touch

• Quality ingredients and classic French cooking

• A welcoming atmosphere for any occasion

25. Pique-Nique and more

Right then, let's talk about Pique-Nique. Tucked away in Bermondsey, this place is from the same people who brought us Casse-Croûte, and you can tell. It’s got this lovely, slightly quirky vibe, set in a building that looks a bit like a mock-Tudor pavilion, right on the edge of Tanner Street Park. Honestly, it feels properly French, from the chalked-up menu with its Gallic charm to the staff who are just effortlessly suave.

What I really like is how they do the food. It’s all about gutsy, rustic, and proper traditional flavours. Think of it as old-school French cooking, but done so well that it’s incredibly comforting. They’ve got these wood-fired grills, and you can actually hear the chicken skin sizzling as it rotates on these big metal skewers. It’s a real sensory experience.

Here’s a little taste of what you might find:

• Rotisserie Chicken: The star of the show, cooked to perfection over the wood fire.

• Classic French Starters: Expect things like rillettes or perhaps some hearty soup.

• Seasonal Specials: The menu changes, so there's always something new to try.

It’s the sort of place where you can just relax, enjoy some seriously good food, and feel like you’ve stepped out of London for a bit. It’s not trying to be overly fancy, just genuinely good, honest French cooking.

So, if you're looking for that authentic, comforting French meal without any fuss, Pique-Nique is definitely worth a visit. And when they say 'and more', they really mean it – there's always that feeling that you'll discover something new each time you go.

Bon Appétit!

So there you have it, a little tour of some of London's spots that really capture that French bistro feel. Whether you're after a fancy meal or just a simple plate of steak frites, there's definitely something out there for everyone. It’s nice to know you can get a proper taste of France without even leaving the city. Go on, treat yourself – you deserve it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a restaurant a 'bistro'?

A bistro is typically a small, simple, and friendly French restaurant. They often serve classic, hearty French dishes in a relaxed setting, usually at reasonable prices. Think of it as a more casual version of a fancy French restaurant.

What kind of food can I expect at a French bistro?

You'll find lots of tasty French favourites! Common dishes include things like French onion soup, steak frites (steak and chips), coq au vin (chicken cooked in wine), escargots (snails), and delicious desserts like crème brûlée or tarte tatin. Many also offer cheese and charcuterie boards.

Do I need to book a table at these bistros?

It's usually a good idea to book, especially for popular places or if you're going during busy times like weekends or evenings. Some very small or traditional bistros might be more casual, but booking is generally recommended to avoid disappointment.

Are French bistros expensive?

French bistros can range in price. While some offer very affordable, comforting meals, others might be a bit pricier, especially if they're in a prime location or focus on more high-end ingredients. It's worth checking their menus online to get an idea of prices.

What's the difference between a bistro and a brasserie?

A brasserie is usually larger than a bistro and often serves food all day, from breakfast to late evening. They tend to have a more bustling atmosphere and might offer a wider menu, sometimes including seafood platters. Bistros are typically smaller, cozier, and focus more on traditional, home-style cooking.

Can I find vegetarian options at a French bistro?

While many classic French dishes are meat or fish-based, most modern bistros are aware of dietary needs. You can often find vegetarian starters like cheese or vegetable gratins, and sometimes main courses. It's always best to ask the staff or check the menu beforehand.