Le Petit Citron

In London, there’s plenty of choice when it comes to French haute cuisine, but the more rustic, family-style food of Provençal cooking is a little harder to find. Enter Le Petit Citron, from husband and wife team Lawrence and Emily Hartley.

Le Petit Citron does a great facsimile of a French bistro, right down to the paper tablecloths. French posters are plastered all over the walls and soft lighting makes it a romantic spot for dates. The food is delightfully uncomplicated: from the starters, a red onion and goat’s cheese tart was different from what we expected, appearing in the form of what looked like a Pop Tart and boasting a buttery croissant-like pastry, rather than the usual shortcrust. This worked brilliantly with the sickly sweet red onion, and the sour goat’s cheese.

For mains, we had the confit belly pork, which as a confit should, fell apart at the touch of a fork, while the addition of lentils cooked in Dijon mustard really added an extra kick to the dish. For pudding, there’s pain perdu au chocolat, which is a very homely (and chocolatey) French version of bread and butter pudding. We mostly enjoyed everything we ate, although our side dish of potato dauphinoise could have done with a little more sauce.

Haute cuisine this restaurant may not be, but with affordable prices and delicious food, Le Petit Citron is the kind of place you’ll want to make a regular haunt.

For a taste of Provence right in the heart of Bristol, Le Petit Citron brings the warmth, charm, and flavours of a classic French bistro to your dining plans. A family-run gem inspired by long summers in the south of France, this cosy neighbourhood spot serves up simple, soulful cooking that feels like a hug on a plate. Whether you’re booking for a leisurely dinner, a special occasion, or just craving a little French indulgence, Le Petit Citron offers a welcoming escape from the everyday.

Step inside, and you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to a charming village bistro. The atmosphere is relaxed yet elegant, with rustic wooden tables, warm lighting, and the comforting hum of conversation over good food and wine. The menu is a love letter to Provençal cooking, celebrating timeless recipes made with the best sustainably sourced ingredients.

Start your meal with something light and flavourful, like the Anchoïade Tartinette, a deliciously savoury anchovy relish served with walnuts, egg, and toasted Poilâne, or the Petit Soufflé au Chèvre Blanc, a twice-baked goat’s cheese soufflé that’s as indulgent as it sounds. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, the La Soupe De Poisson, a rustic Mediterranean fish soup with saffron, Pernod, and a garnish of aioli, comté, and croûtons, is a must-try.

For mains, classics reign supreme. The Coq au Vin is slow-cooked to perfection in red wine with bacon and mushrooms, while the Confit de Canard is rich, tender, and served with creamy gratin dauphinois. Steak lovers can opt for the "Minute Steak" with Pommes Sarladaise, a flash-grilled delight accompanied by crispy duck-fat potatoes.

Of course, no French meal is complete without dessert. Whether it’s the silky Crème Brûlée, the Petit Pot au Chocolat with buttery shortbread, or the citrusy delight of Le Petit Citron, there’s always room for something sweet. With its warm hospitality, beautifully crafted dishes, and an atmosphere that invites you to linger, Le Petit Citron is the perfect place to book for a relaxed yet refined meal - whether it’s a date night, a family gathering, or just an excuse to treat yourself to something truly delicious.