This place is perfect for the solo female traveller. I want to start by saying this first as I don't think the French do solo eating in the same way that we do in the UK or America. I stumbled on this restaurant YEARS ago when I was a young girl encountering my first trip from home and I have been returning ever since, whether it be weekend trips or day trips from London, I always find time to have a meal here.
I remember walking past this place the first time, it looked great, I really wanted to go in but I was wary of the crowds and scared of eating by myself. Eventually, I went in and managed to tell the waiter in my bad French if I could have a discreet corner as I was sitting by myself. He found the most private part of the restaurant and what a relief when I sat down, having actually overcome one of my demons - eating alone. I ordered a couscous dish that came with lots of meat (too much) and a side of vegetable stew with wine, dessert and mint tea - I don't recall paying £10. In spite of inflation, this place hasn't increased their prices in years. The touching thing is that over the years, the waiters remembered me. Even now, when I visit they welcome me back and pull all the stops out. You hear so many ignorant comments about how women are treated by Muslim men but hands down I receive more respect and honour from North African men in Paris than I do with my own men back home and this place is no exception. Conduct yourself like a lady and you'll get treated like one. This restaurant is a true winner. They're not pretentious, they're not working for tips, I doubt they even care, but they do care about providing a service that the customer is paying for and they provide it well. I'll be visiting Paris in late June and I'll probably spend every one of my four nights here having dinner. read more