Le Baratin

"Open for: Lunch and dinnerPrice range: $$When Paris chefs want to unwind they head for this little wine bar in Belleville where Argentine-born, self-taught chef Raquel Carena serves up some of the most deeply satisfying food in Paris. The chalkboard menu changes constantly, but Carena loves offal and fish, and her palate favors tart and sweet-and-sour flavors, as seen in dishes like mackerel tartare with smoked vinegar, tuna steak with black cherries, and rabbit and mushroom ragout with red wine sauce. The bohemian soul of rapidly gentrifying Belleville has taken refuge here. Located in the 20th arrondissement.Vibe check: This small spot has become a legendary institution, but don’t expect any frills." - Alexander Lobrano

"A classic bistro opened in 1987, famous for its steadfast menu featuring creative bistro dishes." - Caitlin Gunther

"To understand why the French say, “Tout est bon dans le cochon” (“Everything in the pig is good”), head to this Belleville old faithful. Dishes at this barebones bistro mostly revolve around offal, and are more creative and delicious than the next—pork snout terrine, crispy pig's ears, poached calf’s brain doused in lemon butter. It’s no surprise that Parisians have been sitting on these worn leather banquettes for over 30 years—and that’s despite (or is it thanks to?) its almost comically ornery maitre’d, who seems straight out of central casting for “disgruntled Frenchman.” He's part of the charm, but not the reason why we return to this spot again and again. Grab a group of friends who don’t turn their noses up at nose, and won’t think twice about swapping plates so that everyone can try every dish." - emily monaco

"To understand why the French say, "Tout est bon dans le cochon" ("Everything in the pig is good"), head to this Belleville old faithful. Dishes at this barebones bistro mostly revolve around offal, and are more creative and delicious than the next—pork snout terrine, crispy pig's ears, poached calf's brain doused in lemon butter. It's no surprise that Parisians have been sitting on these worn leather banquettes for over 30 years—and that’s despite (or is it thanks to?) its almost comically ornery maitre'd, who seems straight out of central casting for "disgruntled Frenchman." He's part of the charm, but he's not the reason why we return to this spot again and again. Grab a group of friends who don't turn their noses up at nose, and who don't think twice about swapping plates so that everyone can try every dish." - Emily Monaco

"Argentine chef Raquel Carena pretty much invented bistronomy, as many young chefs acknowledge. This stripped-down, retro bistro serves food that is delicate or hearty, but always personal. The blackboard menu makes pleasant reading, the prices are restrained and the wines appealing. Reservations strongly recommended." - Michelin Inspector