Philou – A New Paris Bistro Boasts Delectable Food with Reasonable Prices

When in Paris, I am always on the lookout for bistros where the food is inventive, seasonal, and reasonably priced. I didn’t have to look very hard this June when I was in the City of Light. I had read glowing reviews by both French and American critics about Philou, a fairly new restaurant only steps from the Canal St Martin in the increasingly trendy 10^th arrondissement.

My spouse and I and two friends, who live in Paris, arrived on a hot summer evening and were seated outdoors on the small terrace.  From a portable black board menu, we quickly made our selections. For starters I ordered a delectable cold plate that included flaked smoked haddock combined with sliced cucumbers and little “grenaille” potatoes. This was garnished with a green salad and a room temperature poached egg. Sublime!  Others had grilled pork belly with a slice of cantaloupe (the cooling melon a perfect foil for the rich pork) and another loved a perfectly seasoned pâté accompanied by a seasonal salad and cornichons. Mains included duck breast served with honey and balsamic-glazed roasted eggplant and a roasted cod fillet set atop a bowl of colorful ratatouille. This latter dish was so good that I reproduced it at home! 


You’ll find a version of it on my site (www.bettyrosbottom.com under Market to Table) this month.  A glorious molten chocolate cake for two (one of the best I can remember sampling) and a roasted peach with citrus flavored sauce and ice cream completed our menu. 

And the price!!  The prix fixe was 30 euros with a few supplements for some items. This was a true bargain for a meal prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients served in a cozy and casual setting by warm and friendly garcons! I plan to return.

Philou

12, avenue Richerand

Paris 10

Phone:01-42-38-00-13

Metro: Jacques Bonsergent