You need some insider tips to go to the best addresses in Belleville. This is the best dumpling place, that's great for fusion cuisine. And the best bobun? "At Paris-Belleville," say our spies in the know.
A tiny room, with a flashing sign saying "Bò bún" is what awaits, but don't judge a book by its cover. On the menu? Bo buns in all shapes and sizes. The classic beef with nems (€8,50) was fresh, generous, spiced but perfectly balanced; and the bún tôm thịt nướng with grilled prawns and delicious slathers of pork. For starters? The paper-thinbánh cuốn dumplings - stuffed with pork and black mushrooms - were perfect in texture. The phos also looked great (as you'd hope given the name of the place) but we recommend you test the bo bun as a priority.
And don't panic if you can't find this place on the internet, it goes by two names: Paris-Belleville and Phô 19. This place clearly likes to be kept a secret...
TRANSLATION: ALICE WHITE WALKER