Set on the site of the stables of Louis-Philippe and the Orleans family the Bistrot Valois has quickly become a cantine for government workers at the nearby Palais Royal since its opening in late 2013.

Set on the site of the stables of Louis-Philippe and the Orleans family the Bistrot Valois has quickly become a cantine for government workers at the nearby Palais Royal since its opening in late 2013.

When the young restaurauteur Laurent Chainel (Café Tournon) took over it was a shambles but with its authentic zinc bar, exposed brick walls and gallery of photos of film stars it feels as if it has been here forever.

As befits a neighborhood cantine the doors open at 7AM, in time for nearby workers to grab an expresso and a croissant at the zinc or in good weather, on the terrace. When they return for lunch they will find a menu of classic cuts of beef, stews and confits to be washed down with a wide selection of wines by the glass under 5 euros.

I was joined by Tim, my pal from San Francisco and fellow Notre Dame football fan-he has a valid excuse he attended. Laurent served an excellent sauvignon blanc from Touraine that Tim accompanied with a tuna tartare sprinkled with fresh mint. I devoured my large prawns, drowned in a bath of garlic and olive oil and grilled to perfection-even the shells were delectable.

Tim had another meeting with nibbles and drinks so I tucked into a confit de canard and we both sipped a cote de Bordeaux.

As I dug in our waiter went by with a plate that included crunchy, hand-cut frites-next time or perhaps on the side with a glass of red?

When we saw the baba au rhum Tim abandoned his diet-a wise decision.

And should you desire a little peace & quiet the back room, also available for private functions, with a generous selection of newspapers and periodicals, is a perfect oasis.

The Bistrot Valois is an excellent choice for an uncomplicated, satisfying meal at correct prices.

Bistrot Valois

1 bis Place de Valois Paris 75001

Metro: Palais-Royal