A Jean Nicot

Time Out says

This little bar and newsagent looks decidedly out of place, squeezed between the flashy luxury boutiques on the Rue Saint-Honoré: it seems to hail from another era. Dedicated to Jean Nicot – the French ambassador to Portugal who brought tobacco to France in the 15th century, hence for a long time it was known as ‘Nicot’s herb’ – the bar has kept the patina of nicotine on its walls, its Belle Epoque lamps, its copper bar and foldaway seats rescued from a doomed provincial cinema. The owner, his wife and son are exceptionally welcoming and friendly – it’s the sort of place you can come for a coffee and to read the paper, and attracts actors, journalists and intellectuals. It’s also the best place in the neighbourhood to eat and drink affordably. All dishes are between €10 and €13: cheese and charcuterie boards, the great salads like the Italian (sun-dried tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, country ham and basil) and classic dishes like beef or salmon tartare. Wine comes from an honourable list of vintages by the glass, carafe or bottle.

By Camille Griffoulières/EH