This quality, all-rounder is the perfect place to kick off – or indeed continue – a love affair with French food and booze. The space is chic, yet casual. White and black mosaic penny tiles cover the floor, deep burgundy warms the ceiling and dark wood gives it that classic Parisian bistro feel. The atmosphere is electric with a full house of customers, open kitchen and friendly waitstaff checking in regularly on their tables. The straight-to-the-point menu is timeless, with a hint of modern flair, while the drinks list offers a majority of French wines and Champagne – and some surprisingly unique and delicious fruity cocktail blends.

Superb technique is present in every dish. The French onion soup with Gruyere croutons is rich, thick and salty. The twice-baked Cantal cheese soufflé is to die for, a fluffy mountain drenched in bubbling cheese that’s so light in texture it literally melts in the mouth. The rabbit terrine is perfectly set, flavoursome and served with pickled onions and cornichons to cut through the fat. Steak frites is obviously a popular choice – the staff marks them off one by one as they’re sold. But for something a little different for dinner, the scampi omelette is one to try. Soft and fluffy, with a generous serving of crustacean stuffed inside, the flavour is strong, so seafood lovers will enjoy. Desserts read humble, but present with finesse. We can’t get enough.