French Living

A haven for Francophiles this deli-cum-cafe-cum-bistro is manned by a smooth, very efficient, very charming French team – you can even practice your French here. The classic bistro (right down to the check tablecloths) is set in the basement (with additional space on the ground floor) reached via an iron spiral staircase & serves up a sturdy traditional menu of snails, fish soup, onglet with shallot sauce & cassoulet, washed down with some reasonably priced French wines, & a selection of unpasteurized cheeses –available in the shop, too – or lemon tart & creme brulee to finish. Prices & portions make it all good value – especially the lunchtime two-course sets at £7.90 & £6.50 respectively or the early bird evening set (served before 7pm Tue-Fri) at £9.50.