ChantAirelle

‘The best of traditional French cooking’ says ChantAirelle about itself. Located near the Pantheon in upmarket St Germain des Pres, this rustic award-winning restaurant transports you from Paris to village life in the Auvergne via old timber, a birdsong soundtrack, a little stone fountain and casual cooking. Food from the mountainous south-central France is not subtle; expect honest, hearty, heavenly dishes in portions so big it may be wise to skip starters. Gourmet ham and cheese make regular appearances on ChantAirelle’s stellar seasonal menu, including specialties Auvergne cabbage stuffed with truffles, and potée de la Haute-Loire – a wonderful old ham and veg casserole recipe. There’s always a fish dish, too. And a lovely leafy terrace garden at the back.