I have a little place in Paris, on the border of the 12th and 11th arrondissements. It’s my haven, a perfect escape when I need to shake things up during the quieter months in Burgundy. Over the years, I’ve discovered some true gems in the area, and I’m excited to share a few with you to add to your list.
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Now, let’s get to it—here are the top bistros in the 11th arrondissement you should try this fall 2024.
Note: All photos are sourced from each bistro’s Instagram page and should be credited accordingly directly on their feeds.
1. Rives
31 rue Saint Maur, 75011 Paris
Instagram: @rives__rives
Thomas Cassagnes’ rustic-chic bistro on rue Saint-Maur is an undeniable charmer. The space, renovated from the old Express Bar, combines snow-white walls, ancestral tiled mirrors, and grandpa’s cowbells, creating an ambiance that’s both cozy and elegant—perfect for an evening out.
Chef Louis Kothe impresses with local dishes like aligot-sausage, baked leeks in ravigote sauce, and Maison Conquet rib of beef with béarnaise sauce. My recommendations? Start with farçous (fried chard with lemon herb cream), indulge in the sautéed sea bass with smoked beets, and end your meal with a crème brûlée infused with Jura yellow wine. And don’t miss the killer vinyl tunes that set the perfect backdrop for your evening.
2. Clutch
62 rue de Montreuil, 75011 Paris @clutch.paris
Clutch is all about seasonal, creative cuisine that fuses flavors in delightful ways. With a focus on sharing and conviviality, this spot offers a remarkable dining experience at just €23 for a three-course meal (entrée, plat, dessert) near Place de la Nation.
Opened last spring by Pierre Rieder, former executive chef at Pierre Sang, and his partner Maxime Merienne, Clutch has quickly become a local favorite. The décor is quintessentially Parisian, with a large gilded mirror on one wall and a rustic, scraped-stone finish on the other. The bistro-style furniture and a counter with a clear view of the kitchen complete the inviting atmosphere. The lunch menu includes a choice of entrées and desserts, with the plat du jour (daily special) featuring a meat or fish option (vegetarian menus are available upon request).
3. Loupiotes
3 rue Jules Vallès, 75011 Paris
Instagram: @loupiotes.restaurant
Loupiotes is the kind of place where locals flock for a satisfying meal with a view of Lilibricole. If you’ve never tasted traditional French cuisine, this is the spot to start. The filet américain here is a must-try, and don’t leave without sampling their fascinating parfait. Pair your meal with a delicious wine, and you’re in for a treat.
Loupiotes is also known for its excellent service and friendly staff, who are always ready to assist. The spectacular décor and cozy atmosphere make it a perfect place to unwind. With a Google rating of 4.8, it’s a safe bet for a good time.
4. La Réserve Bistro
44 Rue Léon Frot, 75011 Paris
Instagram: @lareserve_bistro
This bistro specializes in “petites assiettes bistronomiques” (small gourmet plates) that are perfect for sharing. The artichokes are decadent, and the wine selection complements the dishes beautifully. It’s a spot where you can enjoy a casual, yet refined dining experience with friends.
As the leaves begin to fall and the crisp autumn air settles in, there’s no better time to explore the culinary delights of Paris’s 11th arrondissement. These bistros offer a taste of the city’s rich gastronomic scene, each with its own unique charm and flavors. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, I hope this guide inspires you to discover new favorites and savor the vibrant atmosphere of Paris in 2024. Don’t forget to share your experiences and let me know which bistro becomes your go-to spot this season. Bon appétit!
