Benichat is more than welcome addition to a neighbourhood dominated by PMU bars and dodgy beer. With soft lighting and tiled floors, this is a great stop-off for an aperitif or late evening drink. David Benichou, formerly of Clown Bar and Brutos, created the bar with his mates in mind so expect natural wines from all over Europe (Frank Cornelissen in Sicily, Partida Creus in Spain, Michael Kindl in Austria). Beers by the Belgian brewery Dupont are excellent, especially La Saison, a hoppy but thirst-quenching blonde (€4.50 for a half pint).
If you’re peckish, there are snacks like terrine by Simon Horwitz, cheffing at Elmer and excellent Ten Belles Bread. This is our new 10th arrondissement hangout.