Best meal I had in Paris. Service was excellent! I went to the wine bar (no reservations, get there before they open to avoid a long wait). Every dish was delicious and wines were the best I had in Paris. We even had a celeb sighting as Billy Zane waited to be seated standing next to our table. read more

After eating here for dinner I am no longer giving American restaurant 5* unless it makes me tell The waiter I love him like the food, service, and aroma here does. Yes I told the waiter I loved him. He chuckled lol. I am picky but on vacation who has time for that. So I knew I wanted the duck as my entree, but this restaurant is a la carte. So I asked my lovely waiter what would he recommend and he told me to get the lamb pizza as a starter. Y'all I don't eat lamb. I've never had a more tender, succulent, juicy peace of meat in my mouth. I then told him give me whatever wine he suggests. And omg. Sorry I skipped the bread to start. I'm really scatter brained because this is real love. It hits you when you least expect it and has you so confused. Lol. Okay so the bread was amazing. I'm sorry but just go eat there I can't explain the perfection that Frenchie is. Also don't have a budget it's totally worth it. read more

Frenchie - Best duck with a lemon sauce of my life. - French Near Me - Paris, 75

Frenchie was our first stop once we got to Paris from London, and our trip couldn't have started off with a better meal. Greg had booked this pretty far out in advance, and reservations here are certainly tight. Our reservation was for right when they opened, and we were seated immediately, but in a corner almost literally right underneath the bar. Not my favorite part of the evening, but the rest of the experience made up for it. The meals here are set and change daily, so in the words of Forrest Gump, "you never know what you're gonna get". We selected a bottle of red to kick off the night and ordered the following items: Me: Quail with wild mushrooms and chestnuts Greg: Scallop with parsley, pork belly, and radish I'm not particularly fond of scallops, so the quail was a no-brainer for me. I don't think I've ever had a more delicious few bites of a bird. Having had grousse the night before, I was sort of skeptical on whether or not I'd be OK with quail, but the mushrooms that came garnished with the dish was absolutely incredible. Greg enjoyed his scallop, but said he didn't really taste any pork belly elements. His scallop came garnished with a foam and was sitting in a light parsley sauce. I would give my quail an A+! Mains: We both avoided the pollock option and went with the Veal with black trumpet mushrooms, cauliflower puree and swiss chard. Greg thought that this definitely qualifies as one of the best veals he's ever had. We thought that the crust was delicious, and was cooked evenly and perfectly through. The cauliflower puree and the chard were perfect with the veal. The mushrooms were a little too rich for me, but Greg thought they were perfect as you ate it with the veal. I don't claim to be an expert on veal, but I did really enjoy the tenderness of the meat and the fact that the portions were perfect such that you couldn't over do it. Dessert: Me: Tapioca, mango sorbet, pineapple, marigold Greg: Selection of British Isle cheeses aged at Neal's Yard Dairy My tapioca dessert was absolutely heavenly. when combined with the delicious mango sorbet, this was a piece of heaven. The dessert was light and didn't stick to my bones like some of the heavier desserts I had earlier on in the trip. Greg thought that his selection of the cheese for dessert was good, however in hindsight he wishes he had selected a sweet instead. The cheese came with sides of jam, honey, and a compote. We sat around enjoying our meal and dessert took in the whole scene. Earlier we saw Chef Greg Marchand walk through the restaurant (which got me excited), and I loved that there were a mix of both tourists and locals in the restaurant. Service here was a little slow, but we were't in a rush to be anywhere to where we needed to inhale our food. This was an absolutely wonderful dinner experience and really set the tone for the rest of our trip! read more

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Merci beaucoup, Anthony Bourdain. Frenchie definitely lived up to the hype. This was my charmed attempt since I waited too long to make reservations my last couple of stays in Paris. Book months in advance if you can, with high demand and low supply (dining room is tiny-seats perhaps 15-18 people @ 5 Rue D'Nil)...it will be well worth it. From the reviews and of course, M Bourdain, there is no bad day at Frenchie's. It was definitely a good day for me and my fellow foodies. Ambiance is simple, clean, and welcoming. We were warmly greeted by a lovely young lady who clearly knew her stuff. The space was small but the staff was stealth and pleasant. There was never too long of a lag between courses and repours of wine. So much anticipation and the intro bacon scones were a very nice ice breaker. What else you got?? Tarama, Frenchie version of the Greek fish roe spread. Smooth operator, for sure-the chips used for dipping was a pleasant surprise. Back home we use pita but chips are proven better. Next course, crusted gnocchi with cheese. This was probably my favorite...and I don't usually like gnocchi. I wish this course didn't end but it was all ok once they brought out the Guinea fowl accompanied by black pudding...WOWZA. Apprehension dissipated once I took that first bite. Didn't want this to end too but no worries, there was more. British cheeses with a preserve medley....served with Frenchie's sesame-grain crackers. A wonderful finish in to a perfect meal. I forgot to mention the rose I had. Frenchie's wine selection is superb-ask any of the staff and they will assist in making a selection to complement your meal. I will definitely be back. Thanks, Frenchie-you guys rock! read more

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Tasting menu, second service, with wine pairing. One of our favorites in Paris. Meal consisted of tuna tartare with watermelon and tomatoes which was ok, smoked eel ravioli which was excellent, monkfish with watercress sauce was only ok, and the final protein was pigeon which was excellent and surprising addition to the meal. Pre-dessert was a blueberry dish with sorbet and merengue that was excellent. The menu had a strong Japanese influence, which we loved. Food was beautifully presented. Of the wine pairing, 4 of the 5 wines were excellent, only 1 which had a lot of smoky notes and almost had a whisky flavor was a little odd but even in that case it did go well with the dish it was paired with. Overall, menu was reasonably priced for Michelin starred dining and an experience worth having in Paris. Food is creative and dinner is executed nearly flawlessly. Staff was outstanding and service was impeccable. If you are unable to get a reservation here, check out the wine bar directly across the street. read more

Went about 2 years ago, and forgot to post. So memorable, that when I came across the photos we took while there, I had to come back and pay homage. The food was exquisite, service impeccable, atmosphere warm and cozy. TIP: Make reservations made waaaay in advance! read more

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food is great but the reservation system needs an overhaul or at least transparency. I tried to return here last week. Per the website's instructions, I had called between 3pm and 5pm local time at least 8-10 times in the month before heading to Paris and never once got an answer. you cannot leave reservation info on the answering machine. they will not respond to a request to send you an email, even just to let you know what the deal is. the truth of the matter is that as of the first week of july 2012, when i visited in person, the hostess reports they are "fully booked until September." when i reported my calls had gone unanswered, she explained they get 200 calls/hour. well, if that's the case and they are truly booked for two more months, the answering machine message and/or website should say that. the hostesses' suggestion that i did not get through the reservation line because i was not "persistent enough" is off-putting and to me idiotic. i've docked my star rating from five to two because i cannot give a restaurant 5 stars when it lacks a senisble organization to its reservation system. read more

We ate at Frenchies last night. They dishes are beautiful to see as well as delicious. read more

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I was so excited when we scored the last table! And I have to say it was the best one in the house... We could see Chef Marchand cooking in the kitchen, and had a perfect view of the street for people watching! It was all I could have imagined and more. The Wine. The Food. The Chef. Brilliant. Simply Devine. I will even say, perfection. We spent most of the night there ...chatting to our server, and the other diners over a bottle of amazing wine. ...Chef Gregory Marchand heard it was my birthday and signed a copy of his cookbook for me! What an unforgettable evening in Paris. Swoon! read more

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Our best meal in Paris! Went here for price fixed lunch and every bite was delectable. The meal was nearly flawless and we wanted to return before we had left the restaurant. I reserved around 4 weeks prior ($108 for two, 1 glass wine, lunch). Great waitress who did speak English. Street was a bit hard to find so watch for it, it was tiny. On to the glorious food. The amuse-bouche were lovely, a crunchy mushrooms bite and a little bowl of trout tartar under a herbed beurre blanc sauce. The cauliflower (raisins & light anchovy flavor) appetizer was lemony,salty, roasted and just beyond words. The main trout dish was as buttery and delicious as it looks in my pictures, each mushroom and vegetable was well seasoned and expertly placed. Many vegetables had both a vinegary and/or lemony and sweet taste (so good). The duck confit dish with lamb was very good, with crispy skin, greasy goodness. Though the lamb was too salty, the fresh goat cheese helped even it out. Both myself and my dining mate cleaned our plates, left not one thing! Every piece of vegetable was highlighted. The dessert was rich, honeycomb, peanut butter ice cream over liquid chocolate and a piece of chocolate. It was over the top sweet, perhaps the honey comb, but it did not mar the overall meal. Frenchie is place I would not hesitate to book again. The women next to me, three times on the same trip!! Update 6/17: created a 16x20 canvas of the trout to put up in our kitchen so we can think about this amazing meal that typified Paris pleasure for us. read more

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How can one not love this restaurant? It is the antithesis of formal, stuffy and old. It is easy and casual. The ambience is a gem of a place and the food is simple yet sophisticated without the pretentiousness. I love what they do here. The ONLY complaint; the staff (especially the bartender) could use a few lessons in hospitality. If in Paris, make it a point to come to this hidden gem. read more

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Came in a little skeptical thinking this would be a tourist trap. At lunch the restaurant did appear to be primarily tourists, but the food was fantastic. Three course prix fixe is a great value and a lot of food. Loved the butternut squash gnocchi dish. Entrees were a fish and guinea fowl. Probably the nicest presentation of any restaurant on the trip. Plates were like artwork, but the food wasn't fussy. Great bread/butter game going on here too. Huge cheese plate for dessert. Really creative food. read more

One of the most outstanding food experiences I've ever had. From the first to last course, everything was divine to the tongue!

FRENCHIE I want to get this right because to me it feels like more than a restaurant review. I mean it is that, but there's clearly something else going on here. It's one thing to choose the most amazing ingredients but choosing the most amazing people is another thing entirely. Frenchie does both. I've wanted to eat here for a long time and tonight was my night. I'm blown away by both the food and how we were treated. Chef Gregory Marchand, AKA Frenchie, has figured out how meld serious, meticulous precision with the highest level of warm, human connection I've ever experienced in place where I'm not a local. I'm not going to write in detail about the dishes. The menu changes constantly and what I ate tonight won't be what anyone eats tomorrow. Each of the five courses were so delicious, creative, stunning to look at and each dish, while distinct, artfully connected to the next. Wine pairings were spot on for each course and truly made sense to even someone like me who enjoys wine but is not an expert. The team's chemistry seems to be steeped a deep respect for one another. Like a band that's played together for decades or a sports team that has every position covered by the person who does his or her thing best. You will watch the Chefs watching each member of the team closely but not in a way that is either anxious or oppressive. In fact those being observed seemed like they clearly welcomed the observation and guidance in service of presenting a world class experience and product. Every person on the Frenchie crew seemed to love what they do and actually care about the patrons. On a very busy evening we felt like we were the only people in the room. They spent time with us and not only shared the details of what we were eating but about themselves as well. Every exchange felt real and deep. Jp's charm, our sommelier's joy and knowledge, One Way's precision and our server's timing and explanations were highlighted by the time Chefs Austin and David spent with us. They didn't have to but I'm so glad they did. I'd totally hang out with these guys. Tonight was the highlight of our first ever week in Paris and maybe the best restaurant experience I've had. Nice work, Frenchie! read more

What an amazing dinner experience! Lived up to the hype. Great service, wine selection and meal all around. Very helpful also with my broken French - English menus upon request. The foie was the best we had in Paris - we went on a binge since we're from LA and on a foie lock-down. Highly recommend the place or the wine bar next door if you're in Paris - if you go to the wine bar - they line up about 6:30-45 before a 7pm opening. Seems well worth the wait - the wine bar space is even cooler. read more

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I had dinner with a friend on February 28 at Frenchie Bar a Vins. We each had gotten a great recommendation for Frenchie before leaving the states. They likely were referring to the main restaurant across the street. It was booked before we left the US, but we decided we would stop by at opening time to see if we could get in. When we got to Frenchie Restaurant, the staff confirmed they were completely booked, but directed us across the street as an option. I hadn't known about their bar restaurant, and was excited because many times the experience at a restaurant's sister bar is the best experience! There already were a couple of folks in line waiting for the bar to open, so we jumped on. Frenchie Bar a Vins definitely is equal to any formal fine dining experience in my view! In fact, I likely would have been disappointed had I dined at the formal restaurant and not known about the bar first. The bar is a total package of the best dining experience: great staff; great vibe; great music; great, expertly prepared food! And with all of that, not a break the bank restaurant given the big sister restaurant has one Michelin star. Frankly, the bar could have that star also, at a minimum Bib Gourmand. After my experience at Bar a Vins, I would go again to the bar and not worry about the formal restaurant. The bar is definitely more my style of fabulous but casual dining, where I can sit back and enjoy without the stuffiness that sometimes invades fine dining. I'm looking forward to returning some day! read more

Imagine rediscovering your Mom's worst kitchen experiments? That was the tomato sorbet with foam! Reminded me of my Mom's tomato aspic, only chilled. The two highlights were the chicken and lobster. Otherwise, the food was especially bland and the dishes were unbalanced. A good example involves the chicken. The salty chicken was good but paired with an overly sweet date and apple sauce combo. My wife and I laughed when the dinner started saying "Predict the foam and the smeerings across the plate!" See, we have been to this sort of dinner with Thomas Keller, Graham Elliot and Gordon Ramsay. The genre has grown tired with us. To us, the foam is not food. Finally, all the sauces! Only one - for the chicken - actually tasted like anything. It was shocking because of the waitress' descriptions of capers and fennel and all sorts of flavors. But for us, the sauces did nothing for the dishes. I am an experienced cook and do all the cooking in my house. Last night was a disappointment on many levels. We hate to see people pay so much money for all of the hype only to be disappointed. read more

I've been trying to get a table at Gregory Marchand's restaurant for three years and finally succeeded on my recent trip to Paris, thanks in part to Wendy Lyn from The Paris Kitchen. The restaurant had been closed for most of August for a remodel. I wanted to fully sample the cuisine and elected the tasting menu. The first dish was a foie gras terrine with fig and grilled mushrooms.. It was heavenly, especially since foie gras is banned in California. Next up was langoustines from Scotland in a langoustine both with smoked black pig lardo from Baque country. The dish was delicate and elegant with wonderful flavors. The two first courses were enjoyed with a Muscat Le Fief du Briel '98. The fish course was a monkfish on a bed of green beans with nuts and I believe red lemon peel. The nuts added an unusual texture to the dish. The meat course was veal with summer truffles and shaved cauliflower cheese. It was delicious! I elected for the optional cheese course and was disappointed especially considering the cheese was all from Neil's yard and were too mild for my liking (Colston Bassett stilton, Isle of Mull cheddar, and Stawley. The best part was the crisps and cherry mango chantey served with the cheese. Dessert was wild blackberries in sorbet with brioche croutons and green lemon curd. It was light and the perfect ending to a tasting menu, but I would have preferred something chocolate served for dessert, or both! When expectations are high you never know if they'll be met. The food, atmosphere and service exceeded my expectations and were so good that I returned the following evening and ate at the wine bar across the street as I wanted more of Gregory Marchand's sublime cooking. read more

Seriously do yourself a favor and make a reservation at Frenchie the next time you're in paris! We came here four year ago and had to go back again. It was just as good the second time as it was the first. It's a secret menu so you don't know what's served before hand. Each course was amazing and the service is top notch. We'll be back again! read more

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Very special and so happy we had the opportunity to dine there. The surprise menu is a treat. We started with a perfect scallop. Other stand out dishes were the pumpkin gnocchi and pigeon. The desserts were a nice finish to a beautiful and very inventive dinner without being too sweet or overbearing. The atmosphere is so charming and cozy. It's very small and feels warm and welcoming. The staff is outstanding. One of our servers was only 20 and she would rival the best servers any where. The sommelier introduced us to a beautiful French wine from a small producer that we would not have ever known. It is definitely a special place to try and would love to return for another amazing surprise of incredible food, wine and friendly service. Often restaurants of this caliber feel stiff and formal and this was delightful . read more

Frenchie for everything right. The food fresh and divine, the service impeccable, the decor sublime. They get it right every time.

Frenchie's was one of my favorite places we ate while in Paris. We had the pre-fixed menu for lunch of 3 courses. An appetizer, main course & dessert. The service was wonderful and very accommodating. The servers spoke English , and helped us pick a wine & suggested items. I recommend making a reservation ahead of time because while we were there we saw a couple people turned away due to not having one. The restaurant is small & they simply couldn't have more guests. Also put aside at least 2 hours for lunch, There is a huge emphasis on ensuring you enjoy your food and meal without being pushed out to serve more people. Bread & butter to start us off, and it came out warm! Perfect. We were then given a small bread piece that had bacon in it, one of each person, it was so good. Forgot to ask what exactly it was. And then we were given another snack that was Brussels sprouts with a lemon sauce? I enjoyed it , and we all thought it was a combo we hadn't thought would work together but did. For an appetizer we had the gnocchi with asparagus, best gnocchi I've ever had. Tried hard not to lick the plate lol I got the chicken breast with carrot purée and veggies. The chicken breast was cooked perfectly , it wasn't dry it all and had plenty of flavor. For dessert I made the mistake of getting a mousse like dessert, it wasn't my favorite choice. Lol All in all, I would definitely recommend & revisit this location. read more

First off... To those that had a bad service experience I must say ours was the opposite... We showed up at 1900 in an effort to get into the wine bar... Missed a seat only to be told stay for 10 minutes and we'll fit in an extra chair into the main restaurant! Three months not required... Dinner was amazing! I had a crab cake and mussel dish that was simply divine... My wife and our guest had a hake in a lemon grass sauce that also was simply amazing to quote them 'elegant and sublime at the same time'... I had a chicken in squid ink that was again... And I can't overuse this word where this food was concerned simply divine... Well worth the trip!!!! read more

Frenchie - Farmer's Chicken and squid ink... - French Near Me - Paris, 75

HOW TO (possibly) GET SEATED WITHOUT A RESERVATION: As we were planning our trip to Paris, we knew we wanted to dine at Frenchie. We had heard it is extremely difficult to book a reservation, so we had tried many times to book online or call to reserve, neither one seem to have worked. I had done some research and we realized you could also try eating at the Frenchie wine bar across the alley with comparable food at a more affordable price. When we arrived in Paris, we read John M.'s review below and followed his directions to possibly getting seated without a reservation. We knew it would be a long shot but thought it'd be worth it. And BOY was it worth it! As his review had mentioned, arrive well before the restaurant opens, perhaps around 6:15 PM. We advised the hostess we did not have a reservation but if they had any cancelations we were interested in dining and if she could please put us on a "wait list" and that we would be waiting at the Frenchie Wine Bar across the alley. I don't think they have an official wait list. Because we had arrived with ample time, we decided to walk around until the wine bar opened at 7:00 PM. When we came back, the hostess ran across the alley to greet us and said, "a reservation just canceled and we can seat you two now." Apparently the couple had showed up to the restaurant and decided to leave. We were able to get sat with the 5 course meal (I'm assuming that's what the cancelation couple had reserved, and I am so glad they did!). Everything about the experience was phenomenal! Everything from the professionalism of the staff, the quality and creativity of the food, and even the ambience is very pleasant. We absolutely loved the entire experience. Each plate had such unique flavors and the entire meal really told a well-rounded story. It was delicious! If you don't have a reservation, try John M's tip (or my newly translated tip). Apparently it is pretty rare during high-season that a party will cancel. So while it is obviously not a guarantee, it's certainly worth a shot! read more

We were visiting from Los Angeles and wanted to have a special night. We got on the waitlist a month in advance. When we were in Paris, we got a call that they had a table for 5. We are very difficult eaters. My son is allergic to fish. My husband doesn't eat dairy and I don't eat gluten. They were so nice and so accommodating. We had a 5-course fixed menu and each dish was spectacular. We didn't leave too full and that was after two dishes. The restaurant is really small and modern and on a hidden street. If you have the opportunity to visit this gem, do not miss it. This was definitely one of the most memorable dinners of my life. I know that I didn't really talk about the actual foods, but somehow the whole experience - the service, the creativity of each plate, and the atmosphere make the perfect evening. read more

Of all the places we had booked in Paris, this was the most difficult to get into. After reading all the reviews, my expectations were quite high. It was a cold rainy night and when we found the restaurant down the tiny, dark street we were quite pleased. We had managed a reservation for the early seating (7pm) and there was only one other table sat when we arrived. The atmosphere is adorable. It's a super tiny restaurant with no more than 8 tables. Dim lighting and candles help set the mood. The atmosphere is romantic and intimate but also casual. A quick glance at the menu doesn't leave you with a ton of options. You can choose between 2 or 3 courses at 38 euros or 42 euros respectively. The first course was an option of foie gras. The second course was an option of squid ink seafood tagilatelle or veal breast. The third course was a choice of chicken or pollock and the fourth choice was desserts or cheese. We each started with the pasta. This dish was delicious with very fresh and tender pieces of squid as well as chorizo and mussels. There was a crunchy bread crumb throughout and a sauce of tomato and oil. It was very satisfying and made me feel more like I was in Italy than France. For the main course, I ordered the pollock and my boyfriend ordered the chicken. Both were very good. The fish was delicate with a nice foam and the chicken had a beautiful sauce and greens. We ended up skipping dessert as we were headed elsewhere for the sweets. I think this restaurant is so popular due to the excellent price for the fantastic quality of food. It is filled with almost all tourists, ie Americans and Brits. This didn't bother me but it is nice to be with the French while you are in France. While the food was very, very good, I would not by any means call it the best meal of my life. It's an intimate restaurant with wonderful food at a fair price. *Note that they only accept tips in cash. read more

This was supposed to be the highlight meal of our entire trip. We heard and read wonderful things and knew we had to make a reservation. I felt like I won the jackpot, but now instead, I feel like a total sucker. Everything went awry from the get-go. I give her my name, the host seats us, but minutes later, she aggressively and angrily comes at me and says to me, "The reservation is for 2?!? We have down 3!" I was stunned and taken aback by the manner she came at me. My husband was angry at how I was treated. Even the people next to us were taken aback. I know I didn't make the mistake, even the voicemail from the restaurant confirming our appointment the night before also stated we had a reservation for 2. I'm just stunned and uncomfortable. Instead of getting up and walking out, not wanting to leave this "can't miss" restaurant, I go up to see if everything is ok - she now smiles and says "It's ok." So, I don't even present the voicemail still saved on my phone, figuring what's the point of dragging this further. So, the meal...wow, it was lackluster. Nothing looked like the pictures on yelp or pictures on their website. It felt like each dish was like the next, same textures, vegetables, techniques - everything easily kept hot with little prep, made ahead of time, and easy to plate. I don't feel they really fired a pan while we were there. There wasn't a need to...all items could have easily kept in a warm bath, kept in an oven, freezer (sorbets), or sitting in the fridge (herbs, pickles) or pantry (toasted grains) and served to us. The dominant texture of the night was gel/cream on gel/cream, nothing to really contrast and let elements of each dish sing...it was all kinda muddled together. For example, butter poached fish on top of a large amount of pureed vegetable and some other gel-ish something else...whereas you see in the pictures, the fish is always seared with crisp skin, has many fresh vegetable components and a small amount of accompanying sauce/cream on the side. The texture of the skin contrasting with the buttery silk flesh of the fish. And, the elements of acid to the plate, were heavily pickled - abrasive vegetables. I like pickles, a lot actually and it just was too abrasive, no balance in the pickling solution, just straight vinegar One dish which really pissed me off, was the guinea fowl. Finally, something that wasn't creamy - it looked like it had a shellacked skin, but it was tough/not crisp and the meat was also chewy/tough; my steak knife couldn't even cut through it. It wasn't the fact that it was inedible that pissed me off, but that my husband and I got this random weird cut, whereas the table next to us got the breast and it was f'ing tender meat. We were given the crap pieces!! I wouldn't have given our pieces to even a dog, in fear of it choking. Also, it seemed like they had only asparagus and peas as the accompanying fresh vegetables for the night, each dish had either or, or both in the dish. Even the dessert was a gelled pea disk with some strawberry and basil sorbet. It wasn't good, it was gross and starchy in texture. Both desserts were just the same sorbets - maybe one was slightly different, maybe. No baked component, very little preparation kinda dessert. And, disappointingly - no cheese. It really felt like they didn't give a shit the night we were there. Maybe my experience was an anomaly; we were there on their last night before they closed for 4 nights, for a big French holiday and it could have been one of or all of the following reasons it was so mediocre: -It was the D-team -They had to clear out the pantry/produce before they closed (all asparagus/peas) -Most cooks already were on vacation, so they were short-staffed and they kept the menu simple and ready to go without much cooking/baking and anyone could just plate the food -Vacation was on the brain and they didn't care It certainly felt like the entire experience and meal was just an afterthought. And, in retrospect, it felt like a tourist trap, everyone that night was American. Maybe the locals know to stay away. Also, a note to the chef, just coming by the table to serve a dish is not going to wow people if you are awkward and make your guests feel uncomfortable. If you don't like doing it, don't do it, because it really shows. I'm not here to see you, I'm here to be wow'd by your food and I'm sorely disappointed that I wasted 2.5 to 3 hrs of my night at your establishment when there are so many other options in Paris. P.S. Check your bill, we were way overcharged for drinks we didn't order and a bottle of water (we had "une carafe d'eau," - tap water and free. They charge for water in a different carafe with "Frenchie" engraved it in - I wouldn't put it pass them that it's just tap in a prettier bottle). When I asked, I got some attitude about it at first, but the host corrected it. She came back and blamed it on the waitress. Pure class that one. read more

In years to come, I'll tell the story of how I was fortunate enough to dine at Frenchie at the height of its arc... Chef Gregory Marchand and the entire staff delivering a flawless performance in an intimate setting to enthusiastic guests. This easily lands in my top 5 of all time. Only one other recent experience comes close - Bottega in Yountville, CA. The end-to-end experience scored all top marks: considerate service, perfectly executed individual dishes, thoughtful and intelligent menu combinations, beautiful plates and subtle ambiance - wow. Starting with the environment, the space is woody and welcoming with a small bar that's completely functional, but overall supports the meal service. The soundtrack was unexpected but really great - mostly 70s and 80s classic pop - hear Dire Straits, Sultans of Swing at a volume just right. Two services on each evening; one at 7PM and the other at 9. The menu is fixed with a selection of two items for each of three courses. I tried everything. The extra starter on this evening was Duck foie gras préssé, rhubarb chutney, summer purslane - remarkable. Starters were sweetbread, lobster bisque, chanterelle, leek or banka trout, white asparagus, elderflower. I won't go through the exact wording of each course, but each plate had multiple elements that came together perfectly. This struck me with my main course which was Pollock fish with beans, brocoli, sobrasada. This fish was cooked exact- seared on the skin side and flaky everywhere else. There were fresh peas, a single red and a single yellow cherry tomato, two pearl onions and a single small carrot. All of these ingredients cook at different rates and any one of them could have been alone, yet they were all done to their fullest potential and together made a complete and memorable dish. We asked for the sommelier to pair each of our plates and she did a fantastic job. Each and every plate had a recommended wine and they were spot on, including the sweet wines that came with desert. My desert; apricot tart with pistachio crust, herbs and sherbet was a knockout. A complete experience in many ways priceless, even magical. Bravo Frenchie! read more

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I haven't been to the restaurant in a while, but thought it necessary to write about their customer service, or lack of. There's no denying Chef Marchand makes some incredible food. Unfortunately, with popularity and fame comes customer service complacency. He has hired unruly front of the house staff, his reservation system or lack of sucks! It takes months to get a reservations, and just keep your fingers crossed they got it right. Just the other night, friends from US made reservations for a table for 4, months in advance in US. Prior to leaving for Paris, they once again confirmed Third time you'd think would be the charm, well you'd be wrong. They arrived in Paris last week, had concierge reconfirm. The restaurant said they only showed reservations for 2 NOT 4. So, they were left with no dinner reservations. Fortunately, they found a decent place, L'Hedoniste. I use to have friends from US call me to plead to me to make reservations for them, because at one point they weren't answering their phones. So, the only way you could make reservations was in person. But currently I refuse to go anywhere near that restaurant, because of the horrible experience I had trying to make reservations for the last set of friends who pleaded to me. The attitude was like, "take what I give you, I can't be bothered with all your demands." The dining experience has to be about the whole experience, from the time you make the reservations to the time you leave the door. Yes, those types of restaurants exists in Paris, more so than not! So why put up with this type of complacency. If Chef Marchand would give half his attention to the customers as he does the food, then that restaurant would be a winner. read more

This restaurant got way too popular, so now I have to book months (months?!?) in advance. I'm going to try to go again soon. When I miss California, I can always go here. The food is fresh, modern, and delicious. Really a good deal for what you get, too. Instead of having many options every night, they have only a few options and change them frequently. It was here that I first came across a topinambour, a particularly flavorful root vegetable. When I asked the waitress what it was, she pulled out an encyclopedia of vegetables to explain. Perfect. At the end of the evening, the chef comes out to prepare the next day's menu and is happy to talk to the diners. A very personal feeling and a truly great approach. read more

This was my favorite meal in Paris. Even if the food hadn't been Devine they would still get 5 stars for the service! Most amazing staff ever. Just a good meal without pretension! Meal for two and four glasses of wine was €200 and worth every cent! read more

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I was so excited to actually get a reservation for lunch today at Frenchie since there was only two days available for lunch this entire month. I left my credit card number on-line, which they require, in case I did not show. When I arrived today for my noon reservation, I was rudely treated and told by JB that "It is not possible to make a reservation for one!" I did not receive a confirmation via e-mail, although I had given my e-mail address, therefore that justified him yelling at me and treating me like a total liar. He told me twice that I could go down the street to "Frenchie To Go." Gladly, JB because the service is friendly and respectful. Your on-line reservation system has a glitch...don't treat your customers as liars and try to embarrass and humiliate them in front of your staff and other customers. If I see Chef Marchand tonight at Taste of Paris, I will be sure to tell him how rude you are. Get over self JB, there are plenty of other great restaurants in Paris. Your nasty attitude will kill your business and all of the talent and efforts of back of the house. Don't think I will return. read more

Frenchie - French Near Me - Paris, 75

*le sigh* I left Frenchie after having had dinner with some friends feeling quite disapointed. I had high hopes after hearing so much about it and knew I would be paying a lot (45 euro per person - 3 course menu with 2 options for each course - with wine we spent 70 euro each) but honestly, I've had better. WAY better. I went with the gaspacho (ok... it was good... but how hard is it to make?) then had a white fish (my favorite part - was perfectly cooked and proportioned) then basically fruit with too-soft frozen yogurt (yawn) Honestly if I go back it will be to the bar. The ambiance was correct at the restaurant but looked better across the street. read more

Dinner at Frenchies ... As Rachel noted halfway through, "we'll be able to say we knew him when." We'd tried for several days to get in. At first, they were closed for the holidays, sending us next door to Thiasil, a very credible Thai place - but that's another review. Finally, we happened into Frenchies later in our trip and were pleased to hear, "we've just had a cancellation for tomorrow night - would you like it?" Uh yup. I don't recall eating this calibre of food in a space for only 26 diners where the chef sticks his head out the kitchen's Dutch door to see how we like things... Looking at us at once seeking approval and on the other with a clear sense of confidence and pride. I have photos of the menu this night, and we had everything on it except for one dessert and the fois gras ... fois gras seems to be a gastronomic necessity in Paris. (I would expect to see McFois coming soon to a Parisian McDonalds.) So, based on what I just wrote, one might assume we had a huge, varied and complex meal... Correct on two of three points. Offered were just two starters (entres, as they are called here), two plats (main dishes) and three desserts. Sensibly we ordered to cover as much ground as possible. I started with lobster raviolis in a mussel & fish stock, heavily scented with parsley and I think, chervil. Rachel had a beef ragout with gnocchi in a very complex but light sauce. Both were flawless and the bread basket got a workout. Rachel had perfectly cooked (broiled) white fish served with baby beets in a beet reduction. I had veal with a mushroom & mustard fume, spinach and two minuscule potatoes that tasted like a half pound of bacon collided with a tub o' butter. (Sometimes size doesn't count.). One dessert was a play on panacotta. It was, per Rachel, " smooth but not dense enough. A noble attempt to make it unique ... With some sort of finely milled granola. Surrounded with grapefruit" (or words to that effect.) My dessert was an airy cheese cake with a thin layer of gelatinized citrus. Truthfully, I was too full to finish it. Dinner was 109 euros, to include three glasses of wine and a bottle of Peligrino. This is a veritable bargain compared to the so-called 'gastronomy' elsewhere in Paris ... i.e. food desperately in search of it's soul, but wearing expensive shoes. At Frenchies, the service was personal, professional and caring. It's unlikely well manage reservations next time in Paris - I would expect this place will be booked many months in advance. Nevertheless, we will try. Note: I believe they have discontinued lunch service, but dinner hours are soon to be expanded, beginning at 7:00 PM. Check for yourself to be sure. read more

Before I copy and paste the review I wrote for Frenchie on TripAdvisor, I want to comment on the Brian M's review that restaurant 2 stars. I'm sorry that your reservation was lost and you didn't get to experience this unbelievable food. And you're right, there is a lot of English speaking tourists at Frenchie. But trust me, these foreign patron (foodies) know what excellent food is. Getting into this place is a pain in the ass and random riff-raff doesn't just accidentally walk into this place. Frenchie is well hidden from the tourist thoroughfare. Brian is also correctly noted that the dress code at Frenchie's is very casual. I suggest that if you want to wear your expensive cloth and drop $1000 on a meal, then go to Guy Savoy. If you want great food, come to Frenchie. The food was everything and more. Gregory Marchand definitely took my palate to places it has never been to before. I can't say that I loved everything I ate, but the taste was very different from anything I have tried before. The word that describe the food the best is "multi-layered." In between the beginning of the bite, to the time I swallowed the food, I experienced 4-5 flavors that beautifully complimented themselves. My girlfriend and I were very lucky to eat here on our first day in France. Unfortunately, the bar was set very high for the rest of the trip, and no other restaurant on our two week journey managed to beat it (although few came close). read more

One of my favorite places! As the name implies, it's French :) Chef Gregory Marchand uses seasonal ingredients and the menu changes daily. It's next-to-impossible to get into, reservations well in advance are necessary. They're also closed on the weekend, except for Friday night. 5 fixed "surprise" courses for around 70 Euros per person, sans vin. Around 120 Euros with wine. If you can't get in, they have a wine bar across the street (Frenchie Bar á Vins) and a smaller restaurant for lunch only. (Frenchie To Go). They also a recently opened vin cave, Frenchie Wine Shop. Seems like Frenchie has taken over this hidden "alley" in the 2nd arrondissement! Remember...Persistence pays! And, if you can't get in here, pop over to London. They recently opened an outpost in Covent Garden. read more

After having the hardest time to find this place in a dark alley way, we finally arrived. We thought the food was way over priced and the place is so small we had to sit with a bunch of other people and there was no where to hang your jacket. spent 70$ usd and i dont even know what i ate read more

Loved the vibe of this small place in a French neighborhood. Food was excellent too. Had a Reuben sandwich and lobster roll, both were extremely good. read more

FRENCHIE "DELICIOUS AND CRAZY" RESTAURANT REVIEW Spent a week in France and ended the trip on our last night at Frenchie. We had high expectations for this final night considering the high quality of gastronomic experiences from the past seven nights at other restaurants throughout France. We arrived promptly at the restaurant for our 7pm reservation and were seated at a nice table in the far right back corner of the restaurant. The greeting was friendly but surprisingly English compared to the true French experiences of the week. After only a few minutes, the hostess came over, apologized and informed us of our reservation at the highly regarded "chef's table". Interesting, as we had no prior knowledge of this opportunity. We were told that the hotel, upon making our reservation, requested this special experience for us. We took the opportunity. The entire service team was friendly and informative in this "counter" or "bar" setting. Chef/owner Gregory Marschand was hands-on and there to inspect each and every plate that came out of the kitchen. He was certainly there to scrutinize the quality of every dish as well as explain the preparation to us. We noticed some drama right away with a new employee that was seemingly working his first day. We've all been there so this is not an attack on him at all. A truly nice young man, nervous in his approach and presentation of the menu that went something like, "I suggest the 5 carte menu which really is the best value". Nothing more than that and certainly no further information on the specific menu options. This new employee certainly added some stress for the servers on the floor during our visit. The remaining wait staff which included 2 friendly servers, a knowledgeable somalier, Marschand himself and some associate chefs, were certainly put to the test with this added stress. We elected to get the 5 carte menu with the wine pairing which included 5 courses of food service with 5 paired wines. Not sure if I would call it a good value but since when is a week of gastronomy in France, culminating with a night at Frenchie, a good value. Not inexpensive and certainly may be worth the cost for the quality of the food. Our food was delicious and the Chef within conversation proximity of the chef's was incredible. Around 8:30pm, when the new employee was released from his job, yes he was fired, the atmosphere turned from timely service and friendly hospitality to rushed, catch-up and tension. Chef Marschand was critical beyond belief toward his team. It was dramatic and over and above anything we have ever witnessed. The team did a fabulous job of working under the pressure and putting on a happy face during this adversity and stress. I guarantee that nobody else in the restaurant noticed this drama as they were not in this close proximity to the action. The restaurant was loud and lively which was great as expected from the reviews. This is not a traditional French restaurant with quiet and romantic ambiance. It is a small restaurant with a quality culinary experience. Seemed like the early seating was mostly American tourists with an English-speaking team. Our Chef's Table experience was delicious and exciting while the drama left a bitter taste in my mouth. The team of individuals working at Frenchie are knowledgeable and friendly and the food was delicious! read more

Alright, let me complain first and then get to the food. I am one of the 3 people in this country that doesn't drink alcohol. So after we ordered our meal and didn't order drinks, I think this really ticked off our waitress. My son commented on how she rolled her eyes in that passive/aggressive "eff you stupid American" look. Then after she shorted me 10 euros when giving me change, I asked her about it. She started to count back the change acting as if I were stupid. Then she realized she was the stupid buttwipe. Okay, I feel better now. To the food. We had a couple of entrees (BBQ pork sandwich, burratta and the cheese tortelli). For the plats, we had the pigeon and the lamb. The pork sandwich and cheese tortelli were nothing to write home about. But the burratta was fantastic. The pigeon I had was succulent and the sauce complemented the protein very well. The lamb dish was just okay. My wife thought there was nothing special about it. I know this place gets a lot of good ratings, but I think it's overhyped. read more